Rhode Island COVID cases hits more than 2,000; 22 confirmed in Burrillville

PROVIDENCE – With testing efforts across Rhode Island ramped up last week, the number of confirmed cases of COVID 19 jumped to 2,015 statewide, with 22 cases in Burrillville.

North Smithfield had six as of Friday, April 10.

The figures remains low in comparison to urban communities, with several cities showing numbers in the triple digits.

And while Gov. Gina Raimondo said the state’s efforts at social distancing are showing early signs of success, she warned residents that they must continue to follow stay-at-home orders.

“Now is not the time to ease up,” Raimondo said during a Friday, April 10 press briefing. “This is the moment. It is clear that what you’re doing is working. It’s making it so I can start thinking about opening this economy sooner rather than later.”

The governor focused much of the briefing on unemployment benefits, noting that a $600 boost for anyone receiving assistance will begin showing up this week. Raimondo noted that a historic number of cases continue to come in daily with more than 132,000 filed. Raimondo said she has filed an emergency order allowing recent retired workers from the Department of Labor and Training can now return to work without fear of losing their pension.

“We are totally overwhelmed,” Raimondo said. “We’ve never seen anything like it. We.re asking for your patience. “

“Bottom line is: if you’re out of work you can collect unemployment one way or another, and starting next week, you can collect about $600 more in your check,” she said.

The governor also discussed the growing number of domestic violence cases reported across the state, noting that even in the pandemic, there are places for victims to get help.

“It is a time of great anxiety and tension for everybody,” she said, adding to victims, “You’re definitely not alone. I want you to reach out for help.”

Raimondo noted that shelters are open, adding that new outreach and services will roll out in the upcoming week.

Anyone experiencing domestic violence is instructed to call the state hotline at (800) 494-8100.

“Do not let yourself get isolated if you’re getting hurt in your house,” Raimondo said.

The governor also announced a change to RIPTA services limiting the number of passengers to 15 at a time. All passengers should be wearing masks or cloth face coverings.

RIPTA drivers have also been recruited to help with Meals on Wheels deliveries, which have increased statewide.

We’re delivering thousands and thousands of meals to seniors in their homes,” the governor said.

Department of Health Director Nicole Alexander Scott announce that there have been six additional COVID 19-related fatalities in the state bringing the total to 49. Five of the six were nursing home residents. Of the 2,015 confirmed cases, she said 169 are currently hospitalized.

Of those not following distancing rules and stay-at-home orders, Alexander Scott said, “Those people are being enormously selfish. This guidance can save lives.”

Below are the latest figures by community, last updated on Thursday, April 9.