NEWSLETTER
SPECIAL EDITION
COVID-19 UPDATE
Since we began testing in September, The Town of Swampscott has provided over 7,000 free COVID-19 tests. We have dedicated over $500,000 to testing, supported by funding from the federal CARES Act and FEMA. 

The funding used for testing is no longer available to us but we are dedicated to continuing to provide opportunities for testing in our Town. The following information is an outline of the new Swampscott testing program starting this week when Cataldo Ambulance will begin charging for testing.
TESTING COST: Tests are $70 each*

PRE-REGISTRATION: Pre-registration will now be required to be tested. You can sign up for a 15-minute slot online HERE.

*We do not want cost to be a barrier for our residents. If you need financial assistance with testing, please contact the Town of Swampscott at covidinfo@swampscottma.gov. 

SCHEDULE
Starting the week of January 11, testing will be offered at the following times: 
  • Monday-Friday: 2:30-6:30 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM-12:00 PM
Please note, this schedule is subject to change and will be updated on the website regularly. 

LOCATION
Testing will continue to be held at the Phillips Park Field House at 585 Humphrey St. 

TEST INFORMATION:
Testing will be performed by drive-thru. The test that is being offered is the PCR test. It is available to residents of all ages. 

ALTERNATIVE FREE TESTING LOCATIONS:
There are several other locations offering free COVID-19 testing

  • The City of Lynn has opened up a new Project Beacon COVID-19 Express Testing site at 398 Blossom Street. Residents are able to schedule their test appointment in advance by visiting Lynn's testing website. Test results available within 24 hours. This testing is for all Massachusetts residents, there is no cost for this test, no health insurance is required, and you will not be asked about your immigration status.
  • Massachusetts Stop the Spread sites are still operating. Click here to see the list of all locations.
  • Medical facilities may also accept insurance for full coverage if you are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with the virus.
As of January 10, there have been 730 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Swampscott. Sadly, there have been 13 deaths attributed to COVID-19 in our community. Cases continue to rise dramatically.

View the slides of a presentation recently given by Swampscott's Public Health Nurse outlining the increase in cases and important steps to prevent the Spread of COVID-19
Starting this week, the Town of Swampscott's Health Department will participate in a regional effort with 5 neighboring communities and their Health Departments to provide COVID-19 vaccinations for our first responders.

The Swampscott Health Department awaits additional information from the state in order to implement additional COVID-19 vaccination clinicis as well as a local community vaccine distribution program. More information for the community is forthcoming.
The Swampscott Health Department maintains an interactive map tracking positive cases in Swampscott. View the graph HERE.
CASE COUNT:
10/22/20: 185
12/2/20:  297
12/8/20:  366
12/15/20: 452
12/22/20: 513
12/29/20: 598
1/6/21: 668
1/10/21: 730
What happens after you are tested for COVID-19? Take a look at this helpful graphic that guides you through the steps and what you should look out for. To view an FAQ of COVID-19 testing procedures, click here.

The most important thing you can do is ANSWER THE PHONE if you receive a call, even if you don't recognize the number. If you have recently tested, the call could be about test results, or the Community Tracing Collaborative calling regarding recent exposure to someone with COVID-19. If you miss the call, call the CTC back at 857-305-2728.
Essex County has had the highest case counts in the Commonwealth and if the number of cases continue to increase, hospitals will become unable to accommodate patients - whether for COVID-19 or other medical emergencies. Please continue to follow the guidelines we all know so well:
  • Stay 6-feet apart
  • Wear your mask
  • Wash your hands
  • Stay home if you're sick
  • Answer the phone!
For more information about COVID-19 as well as Town of Swampscott news, events,
and general information, visit