Coronavirus Update In The Caldwells: 9 Deaths, 141 Cases

Eric Kiefer
·8 min read

CALDWELLS, NJ — The new coronavirus continues to carve a tragic path through New Jersey, including the Caldwells.

On Tuesday, Essex County officials released the latest COVID-19 death and case totals for Caldwell, North Caldwell and West Caldwell:

  • Caldwell – 42 cases, 2 deaths

  • North Caldwell – 26 cases, 1 death

  • West Caldwell – 73 cases, 6 deaths

Catch up on recent updates in the three municipalities below. READ MORE: NJ Coronavirus Updates (Here's What You Need To Know)

CALDWELL

Caldwell borough officials released the following statement on Monday.

“As part of keeping the community informed in the interest of public health and safety related to COVID-19, today we are informing you that we have 2 new cases, totaling 40 confirmed cases in town. There have been a total of 2 deaths of Caldwell residents resulting from this virus. This is a reminder of the risk of being infected and why maintaining social distancing of at least 6 feet, as recommended by the CDC, is so essential. Mayor Kelley continues working closely with the Board of Health to trace the history of contact of these individuals.

“We ask our residents to remain calm and continue to practice the health directives provided by the CDC which are listed on the borough’s website (www.caldwell-nj.com).

“With this information, we strongly recommend that residents continue to limit interactions with other people and avoid crowds, staying home as much as possible. These measures are unfortunate but necessary, especially in Caldwell which is a community that prides itself on neighborly connections and support. Please check in with any neighbors who are alone or who may not have access to social media or the internet. Together, by taking these measures, Caldwell can flatten the curve.”

Caldwell officials added:

“In light of the CDC recommendation that we all wear face coverings when in public places, please see the attached information on how to make a mask if you don’t have one. Wearing masks is a way to be proactive to prevent infecting others, in the event anyone is asymptotic and does not realize they have the coronavirus.”

NORTH CALDWELL

North Caldwell Mayor Joe Alessi released the following statement on Monday:

“I would like to thank everybody in our community for continuing to heed the Governor’s stay-at-home order while safely maintaining the wonderful sense of community for which North Caldwell is known.

“Unfortunately, what we had all fervently prayed and hoped would not occur has happened. Tragically, one of our residents has passed from the corona virus. I know I speak for all in our community in mourning the life of one of our own. This unfortunate victim of the pandemic was a long time, respected member of our North Caldwell family and was a cherished friend and neighbor to so many of us. Please join with me in sending our thoughts and prayers to her family at this difficult time.

“Our great community of North Caldwell continues to feel the direct impacts of COVID-19. We have now registered twenty-three (23) confirmed cases in North Caldwell. Our confirmed case count per capita is on the lower end throughout the County of Essex and I’m proud of the dedication our residents are showing to socially distance themselves. However, if you are experiencing symptoms and wish to request an appointment to be tested, please visit Essex County’s Drive-Thru Testing website (https://www.essexcovid.org/).

“The cases in North Caldwell, Essex County and throughout our entire region will continue to climb over the coming weeks. Although the weather warms, it is imperative to continue practicing all of your social distancing precautions. Social distancing is the only way to reduce the exposure to yourselves and your immediate family. It is also the only way to slow the spread of COVID-19 and give our healthcare industry a fighting chance to save lives.

“We continue to urge all of our residents to take advantage of delivery services where available. Please visit the Borough website (www.northcaldwell.org) for a list of locally owned restaurants, eateries and businesses which can help your family during this time. Please reach out if you own a similar establishment and would like to be added to this list to help the community.

“We also understand that many of our resident’s businesses have been impacted by the economic impacts from COVID-19. The NJ Economic Development Authority recently announced a package of initiatives which includes a grant program for small businesses, a zero-interest loan program for mid-size companies, support for private-sector lenders and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), funding for entrepreneurs, and a variety of resources providing technical support and marketplace information. PDF versions of Small Business Emergency Grant Application are now available for preparation in advance of the program launch on Monday, April 13 at 9 a.m. Please visit the NJEDA website for more information on these resources: https://faq.business.nj.gov/en/collections/2198378-information-for-nj-businesses-on-thecoronavirus-outbreak. Additionally, the US Small Business Administration is also offering a number of loan and debt relief initiatives for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Please visit their website for more information: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources. Similarly, the NJ Department of Banking & Insurance has also announced their efforts to lessen the financial impact of COVID-19. New Jersey residents may be eligible for extended grace periods on mortgage payments, relief from fees and charges, protection from foreclosures and protection of your credit score. Please visit the State’s website to see more details: https://www.state.nj.us/dobi/covid/mortgagerelief.html.

“Please be reminded that April 1 was Census Day and the 2020 Census is still underway. The 2020 Census will determine congressional representation, inform hundreds of billions in federal funding every year and provide data that will impact communities for the next decade. Please visit https://www.2020census.gov/to get more information and respond with your submission electronically.

“Police Chief Deuer and our entire Police Department continue to face a unique challenge during this time. They have done so bravely and without interruption to any of their services. Please keep in mind that your social distancing is also a necessity to our Police Department as it helps them avoid unnecessary exposures during this crisis. I thank you for your assistance in helping them. And I thank them for their continued commitment to excellence.

“I would like to extend my continued appreciation to County Executive Joe DiVincenzo who has been instrumental in keeping a coordinated effort throughout Essex County. The County OEM has been actively working with all of our first responders throughout the County. They have been a conduit to the National Guard, FEMA, the Governor’s Office, local hospitals and the State OEM during this time. Our local needs are being heard and we are thankful for the assistance offered by the County and all responding agencies.

“Lastly, if you, or someone you know, had COVID-19 and have recovered you can help save a life. Your blood may contain antibodies that fight the virus and can help critically ill people infected with COVID-19. Hackensack Meridian Health has been federally approved to screen you as a volunteer. Please visit their website to fill out their screening form to see if you are eligible: https://redcap.hackensackumc.net/Redcap/surveys/?s=PNNL8XPPCR.

“My thoughts are with all of you and although apart, we are in this together.”

WEST CALDWELL

On April 3, West Caldwell Mayor Joe Tempestra asked local residents to “pray for those who have the virus and to pray for those families that have lost their loved ones.”

Tempestra wrote:

“I am asking you as your friend your neighbor and as your mayor, please if at all possible, stay home as much as you can and practice social distancing. The spread of this virus is at its most critical stage and by staying home and social distancing the life you may save may be your own or a family member. Now is not the time to take chances.

“We ask that you continue to patronize our local businesses by using technology to make your purchases online as well patronize our restaurants by using their takeout and delivery services.

“I would like to thank the entire West Caldwell Community for understanding their role trying to do our part in stopping the spread COVID-19. A very special thanks to our first responders particularly our police and great volunteers from our West Essex First Aid Squad and West Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department.”

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This article originally appeared on the Caldwells Patch