MIDDLETOWN, NJ (CBSNewYork) – There are big concerns about the coronavirus in New Jersey after hundreds of people were potentially exposed to the virus at a big party in Middletown.
The news of the party and the COVID-19 group is not right with some who live in the community.
“It is just ridiculous,” said a woman who did not want to be identified. “I am shocked, disappointed, frustrated.”
“It is really disturbing,” said another woman. “Now this could trigger all of that again.”
“It’s pretty scary,” said Middletown resident Anthony Ranaldi. “They are damaging the health of everyone else.”
CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Authorities say the party, where minors were alleged to be drinking, took place on West Front Street on July 11.
At least 20 young adults between the ages of 15-19 contracted the virus while they were there or from someone who was there.
A woman told Cory2 on CBS2 that she had seen similar meetings.
“It was a couple of weeks ago and there were adults, there were children. It seemed a kind of celebration. Minimal masks, I think they were all outdoors, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay, ”he said.
Middleton High School South released a statement saying in part: “Reports of multiple COVID-19 cases are among the high school age population.”
Some of those children are classmates with Will Doyle, 17.
“Honestly, it’s crazy,” he said. “Be smart and, like, you know this is a problem.”
According to Gov. Phil Murphy, some of those teens are not cooperating with contact trackers, and that, he says, is a problem. He believes they are choosing not to share information to help contact trackers for fear they will be punished for drinking illegally.
“This is not a witch hunt. You know, we don’t approve of that, but this is a search for public health, “said the governor. “We do not tolerate illegal behavior, but on the other hand, these people are trying to do good and are trying to contain a public health crisis.”
A few weeks ago in New York, Rockland County officials issued citations punishable by fines of up to $ 2,000 a day to people who refused to give key information after a party that caused an outbreak.
It is unclear if the city of Middletown will do that.
CORONAVIRUS: New York Department of Health The | NY Call 1- (888) -364-3065 | New York Department of Health The | NYC Call 311, text COVID at 692692 | NJ Department of Health The | NJ Call 1- (800) -222-1222 or 211, text NJCOVID at 898211 | CT Department of Health The | CT Call 211
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Middletown is pleading with young adults to come forward, telling them they only want information so they can save lives.
“We are not looking to get anyone into trouble. No one is getting into trouble, and that’s the common misconception with this contact tracing, is that it’s not about getting people, you know, some kind of, you know, summons or something like that. It’s about the health and well-being of our residents, ”said Mayor Tony Perry. “Tell them that in the end it can save someone’s life.”
Something a new mom expects them to do.
“I know people who have died, everyone knows people who have died. What do we have to do to maintain this? she said.
The health department says that if your child attended that party or specifically plays sports or any type of group activity, they are asking you to make sure your child remains in quarantine for at least 14 days to check for signs of symptoms.
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