Mayor Gonnelli Message - 3-27-20

I have received some inquiries regarding the number of confirmed cases in Secaucus and whether the number on our website reflects the actual number. I would like to clarify the situation and want to assure you that we are committed to being transparent about all the information we receive.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases we share is based on our Health Officer’s official assessment. The Health Officer has access to the reporting system, which reflects the number of confirmed cases as reported by the medical community and testing sites, and that is the number we report. We update the website regularly as this information is received. Reporting any other number, for instance numbers based on anecdotes or hearsay, would be inappropriate and potentially inaccurate. I understand that the number from our Health Officer may not completely reflect all the cases at any given time, as residents or their family member are self-isolating if they have symptoms but may not necessarily be tested. There may also be cases where an individual is tested positive and the family members immediately self-quarantine as recommended by the CDC, and hence are not counted as confirmed cases.

Regardless of the number of confirmed cases, the recommended protocols we have in place do not change. Our residents and business community should continue to follow the CDC guidelines regarding social distancing (stay at least 6 feet away from each other), wash hands regularly, avoid touching your face and stay indoors except for essential trips and to get medical care. If we all implement these practices into our daily routine it will go a long way towards slowing the spread.

I would like to emphasize that the best way to keep in touch with all the local updates is to visit our website www.secaucusnj.gov/virus. If you have general questions, you may also call Town Hall at 201-330-2007 any time between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. While most of our staff is working from home, our operations continue, and we are here to help. 

Please remain vigilant and stay safe.