There were no new reported COVID-19 cases in New Providence over the weekend. Although encouraging news, with test results coming in, numbers may rise. It is ever so important now to abide by all of our safety protocols, which include continuing to shelter in, no non-essential outings, and practicing social distancing (which will be enforced). Please visit our borough website for more information at www.newprov.org.
The Union County COVID-19 Test Center at Kean University has implemented a new “telehealth” procedure for persons seeking a COVID-19 test. Beginning today, Union County residents, as well as all first responders and health workers working in the county regardless of residence, can report symptoms and schedule testing by calling 908-373-5105.
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Patients who call 908-373-5105 will be connected to a nurse who will triage and assess symptoms over the phone. Appointments will be scheduled for patients that meet the Centers for Disease Control guidelines. Persons receiving an appointment can proceed to the Testing Center at their scheduled time. No other primary care doctor prescription is required. Please note that Union County residents who previously registered at the Testing Center and have already submitted a prescription may proceed as instructed. The Test Center is located at the Kean University Campus on Morris Avenue in Union Township. Regular weekday hours for the Test Center are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 2pm. The Test Center is available on a drive-through basis only. Testing is free. For more information please visit www.ucnj.org/coronavirus-update.
For general information about COVID-19 and phone contacts for 24/7 assistance with questions, please visit the New Jersey Department of Health at www.nj.gov/health.
The CDC issued a travel advisory for New Jersey, New York and Connecticut:
Due to extensive community transmission of COVID -19, CDC urges residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to refrain from non-essential domestic travel for 14 days effective immediately. This Domestic Travel Advisory does not apply to employees of critical infrastructure industries, including but not limited to trucking, public health professionals, financial services, and food supply. These employees of critical infrastructure, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security (https://www.cisa.gov/publication/guidance-essential-critical-infrastructure-workforce have a special responsibility to maintain normal work schedules. The Governors of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut will have full discretion to implement this Domestic Travel Advisory.
We would like to reiterate the Governor’s Shelter-In Executive Order, which directs all residents to stay at home until further notice. The order provides for certain exceptions which include:
* obtaining essential goods or services
* seeking medical attention
* reporting to work
* engaging in outdoor activities while practicing social distancing.
For COVID-19 questions and inquiries please visit the official website for our state at https://nj.gov.
Please continue to check on each other especially our most vulnerable and our seniors. Our Police, Fire, Rescue Squad, and Emergency Management Team are prepared and ready to help in any situation.