Massachusetts is in a state of emergency because of coronavirus. Governor Charlie Baker made the emergency declaration yesterday to further support the coronavirus response. Baker says the state is continuing to plan and prepare to mitigate the spread of the virus. He's also urging Massachusetts companies to limit out of state travel by employees, and eliminate large gatherings of people whenever possible. So far there are 92 cases of Covid 19. Just one confirmed. In Connecticut, where they also have the a State of Emergency--- they have two confirmed cases.
The Governor has also announced that the 180 day requirement for schools has been waived. That means that school districts will have greater control of scheduling and shutting down buildings in the case of an outbreak.
Knowledge Corridor colleges are continuing to make adjustments this week in response to the evolving coronavirus threat. Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges are canceling in-person classes and switching to an alternate instruction method. One day after Amherst College announced similar action, Amherst said Tuesday it is allowing winter sports to finish their seasons but is canceling spring sports until further notice. None of the colleges have talked about commencements yet.
Coronavirus updates out of Berkshire County. Reports indicate North Adams Mayor Thomas Bernard has gone into quarantine after having contact with City Council Vice President Jason LaForest, who was tested for COVID-19. The number of positive cases for the virus is seven in the county, according to multiple media reports. The latest was announced by the Otis Police Department.
President Trump says coronavirus testing is going well. The U.S. is behind other countries in testing because of a mistake in the original test that led to inconclusive results. Speaking to reporters yesterday, Trump urged citizens to stay calm and said the virus will go away.
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