The Middletown Township Department of Health and Social Services said the group of about 20 cases of COVID-19 in teens may be related to a party that allegedly happened on or about July 11.
“If you think your child may have attended that party or is participating in sports or any other group activity that may have included someone potentially exposed, ask them to quarantine for 14 days to monitor for signs and symptoms,” the center said. Middletown Health Center. department said in a statement Wednesday. “If they get sick, they should isolate themselves and contact their family doctor.”
Health officials encourage parents to have their children tested for COVID-19.
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All cases are adolescents between 15 and 19 years old.
Middletown health officials said they are encountering resistance as they try to track cases.
“The Department is following up on contacts in an attempt to better track and narrow the reach of the group we are seeing. Unfortunately, the response has been less than satisfactory, and many refused to answer our questions,” the department said. of health.
Local leaders are also concerned to hear reports that teens were drinking alcohol at the party. However, its main objective is to stop the spread of the virus.
“We don’t tolerate illegal behavior. I’m not crazy about 15-year-olds who drink alcohol. So please don’t break the law. Period,” Governor Phil Murphy said. “But on the other hand, this is not a witch hunt. We don’t condone that, but it is a public health quest.”
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry said the city is asking and begging parents and students to cooperate. He said that teens are not a problem.
“But we want to tear off the back of this infection. And if we can get that contact information and get some details, then we can contact those who may have been exposed to the coronavirus,” Perry said.
The health department said they have been in contact with some families who say they are in quarantine, but are waiting for more to comply.
Officials are also urging parents who organize meetings to do so responsibly.
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Anyone with questions or concerns should contact the health department at 732-615-2000 x2165 or send an email to [email protected]. You can also visit covid19.nj.gov for additional information and resources.
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