First Positive Coronavirus Case In Secaucus, Mayor Confirms

SECAUCUS, NJ — The first positive case of coronavirus is now in Secaucus, Mayor Mike Gonnelli confirmed. It is a 32-year-old woman who tested positive, and he could not say whether she has been hospitalized or is self-isolating at home.

"This morning I was informed that a resident in Secaucus has tested positive for the coronavirus," said Mayor Gonnelli in a statement. "Frankly, this is something we fully expected to happen, and we will certainly have more positive results as testing progresses. This is not a cause for panic. All the work my administration and staff have done was in preparation for this."

"I would also like to caution you that there is much false information being shared on social media. Our police reported earlier this week there was a text message sent out to cellular customers warning of an impending “mandatory quarantine”, which was entirely false," Gonnelli added. "Please remain vigilant and continue to practice social distancing."

There are two "drive-through" coronavirus test sites in Secaucus, at Riverside Pediatrics on Tenth Street and at Hudson Regional Hospital, pictured above. At both you are tested via a nasal swab in your nose while sitting in your car.

Also on Thursday, Gov. Phil Murphy announced the opening of a COVID-19 community test site at Bergen Community College in Paramus.

The testing site will be staffed by the New Jersey Department of Health, the New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey National Guard. Beginning on Friday, March 20, the drive-thru testing center will be open seven days per week, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. In order to be eligible for testing, individuals must be current New Jersey residents and experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness. Priority will be given to symptomatic individuals experiencing cough, fever (99.6F or above) and shortness of breath.

Individuals who are not symptomatic will not be tested, as it diverts critical resources such as testing kits and laboratory materials from those who are ill.

Testing is free and will be covered by the federal government or personal insurance company. Individuals are encouraged to bring insurance cards if they have one.