Westport Placed In Coronavirus 'Red Zone': Town Officials

WESTPORT, CT — A rise in cases of the coronavirus in town over the past couple of weeks has placed Westport in the "substantial transmission" or "red" category this week, according to town officials.

In a statement, Westport Weston Health District Director Mark Cooper noted the recent increase in cases of the virus in Westport has put the community into a higher category of coronavirus transmission.

"High risk individuals should take extra precautions, particularly those who are unvaccinated, by avoiding large gatherings," Cooper said in a statement. "Getting fully vaccinated, wearing masks and social distancing continue to be strongly recommended for all."

According to First Selectman Jim Marpe, Westport's COVID-19 Emergency Management Team meets regularly to discuss the town's ongoing response to changes regarding the virus in Westport, as well as related supporting data.

In a statement, Marpe noted his executive orders requiring residents to wear masks in indoor public places within Westport, regardless of a person's coronavirus vaccination status, remain in effect.

According to Marpe, indoor public spaces include retail establishments, restaurants or other businesses, as well as galleries, museums, performance spaces, places of worship and government buildings. Businesses may still require proof of vaccination to enter, but a mask will also be required, Marpe said.

"I am grateful that Westporters recognize the importance of wearing masks and getting vaccinated," Marpe said in a statement. "It is for our physical and mental health and safety that we remain vigilant."

According to the state Department of Public Health, Westport had an average of 17 daily cases per 100,000 residents and a positive test rate of 2.4 percent between Oct. 2 and 7.

See also: Westport Coronavirus Infection Rate Rising

There were 11.5 daily cases per 100,000 residents on the average in the previous two-week reporting period. It's important to note that a small number of cases can have a large impact on a municipal case rate, especially for small towns.

The total number of red zone towns in Connecticut — those with 15 or more cases per 100,000 — is 37, down 18 from last week.

Around 70 percent of Westport residents are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus as of Oct. 7, according to the DPH.

Additional information for residents is available on both the WWHD website and the town website.