Coronavirus Update: Eight New Positive Test Results
The number of Franklin Township residents who have tested positive for the coronavirus increased by eight over the preceding 24 hours, the township Office of Emergency Management reported on June 19.
There were no new deaths of township residents that could be attributed to the virus, OEM reported.
The new test results bring to 1,268 the number of township residents who have tested positive for the virus since mid-March. A total of 126 township residents’ deaths have been attributed to the disease, according to OEM.
Note: These are the latest reported numbers for positive test results and deaths, as of the date indicated. These numbers may change, due to periodic inaccuracies in the reporting method. The Franklin Reporter & Advocate has no opportunity to check these numbers in real time, due to the refusal of the Somerset County Health Officer to be interviewed.
The June 25 test sample session at Raritan Valley Community College is closed, as all reservations have been filled. Test samples for the coronavirus will be collected from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 2 at the joint Somerset-Hunterdon drive-through testing facility at Raritan Valley Community College in Branchburg.
To be tested, you must make an appointment, be a resident of Somerset or Hunterdon county aged 5 years or older, must have symptoms of the disease and must have a doctor’s prescription and identification.
Patients are required to provide a copy of their prescription, either by bringing it with them to the testing site, or by sending it via email in advance of the appointment. Patients or their physicians can send the written authorization to the Somerset County Department of Health at coronavirus@co.somerset.nj.us, with the word “Prescription” in the subject line.Faxes can be sent to 908-704-8042.
Residents can make an appointment by visiting https://somerset-hunterdon.adlabscovidtest.com where they will complete a registration form. Residents without access to a computer can call (908) 237-7150.
The township OEM says that the best way to protect yourself and your family from this coronavirus and other diseases is to follow simple daily health precautions:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and for at least 20 seconds each time.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Do not reuse tissue after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Stay at home unless you are essential or seeking essential services.
The New Jersey Department of Health is providing information to residents and has set up a 24/7 public hotline with the New Jersey Coronavirus & Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.