Marblehead Coronavirus Update: Your Questions Answered
MARBLEHEAD, MA — The new coronavirus has left Marblehead residents with lots of questions. Last week, Patch asked readers for their questions and concerns about the current situation. Below is our best attempt to answer some of the most common questions from our readers.
How many coronavirus cases are there in Marblehead?
As of Wednesday, there were 52 confirmed new coronavirus cases in Marblehead, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The department will be updating town-by-town coronavirus case data weekly.
What's open? What's closed?
While the state ordered all nonessential businesses to remain closed through May 4, the list of essential businesses is lengthy. In addition, several nonessential businesses are offering curbside pickup, delivery and other options for customers.
Patch has compiled a guide for local businesses to let customers know if and when they are open. Learn more about the Patch local business guide and find out how to add your business.
Do I have to wear a mask when I go out of my house? Do I have to wear it when I go for a walk, or just in stores?
Marblehead has not enacted a face covering order, but the Centers for Disease Control is recommending that people wear face coverings whenever they leave home and may have contact with others who they do not live with.
Okay, so where can I buy that mask? And while we're at it, where can I buy gloves, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and toilet paper?
Unfortunately, we're journalists, not magicians, and we're having the same trouble finding supplies as our readers. The CDC has a guide for making your own face covering.
Locally, the costume department at North Shore Music Theater and other local groups are making masks for the most vulnerable members of our community.
Other supplies are hit or miss. Some readers have posted neighbor posts on Patch when they see high-demand items in local stores.
What about unemployment?
Answers to most questions about unemployment can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Labor Website. The quickest way to file an unemployment claim is to complete the online form.
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Dave Copeland writes for Patch and can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).
This article originally appeared on the Marblehead Patch
