In a Facebook live video on Tuesday evening March 17th, Mayor Wilda Diaz notified residents of the first presumptive positive case of the novel Coronavirus involving a resident of the City of Perth Amboy.

The resident is currently being treated at a nearby hospital in Middlesex County. Details will be shared as more information becomes available.

“The City of Perth Amboy and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is monitoring and continuously updating emergency orders to safeguard our residents of the novel CoronavirusDisease (COVID-19),” said Mayor Wilda Diaz. “We urge all residents to continue to abide by the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the NJ Department of Health (NJDOH) to help protect our vulnerable populations from this contagious virus.” 

At this time, city officials are not aware of any other identified cases of citizens being diagnosed with the COVI-19. News about the situation is fluid and constantly evolving. All residents and workers are urged to check the city’s websitefor the latest information. 

On Monday, the City of Perth Amboy and the Office of Emergency Management declared a State of Emergency and established a task force comprised of community partners to initiate guidelines so residents can be prepared to act and prepare appropriately. 

A copy of the city’s emergency protective measures and executive orders can be found here.

“We will take every precaution possible to protect the well-being of our citizens,” said Deputy Chief and OEM Coordinator Larry Cattano. “I cannot emphasize how important it is for all residents to practice social distancing and hand washing to protect the public from further exposure.”

For questions regarding COVID-19 or to speak to trained professionals, residents are urged to contact that New Jersey Department of Health at 1-800-222-1222 or 1-800-962-1253. 

For local emergency updates, residents can text their zip code to 888777 or visit the city’s website at www.perthamboynj.org.