Coronavirus Update for Fair Haven from Chief Joseph McGovern, Office of Emergency Management

Dear Fair Haven Residents,

The Monmouth County Regional Health Commission has informed Fair Haven Office of Emergency Management that one of our residents has tested positive for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. Our thoughts are with the resident and their family.

Fair Haven is a strong, healthy community, but this confirmed case is a reminder to all that we are not immune to current public health concerns. However, all residents can make deliberate efforts to flatten the curve of virus transmission by practicing social distancing.  It is similarly important that those with questions seek appropriate guidance and medical care at the direction of primary care physicians.

Today Governor Murphy issued executive order #107 which puts additional restrictions on public gatherings and essential business operations.  While this order may seem confusing and wordy, we can all comply with this order by exercising an abundance of common sense.  For example, restaurants may remain open during their regular service hours, so long as they provide take out/delivery service only.  This means that you should only enter these establishments for a quick pick-up and not sit, remain or linger within the establishment and limit the amount of individuals occupying same.  This seems to be the most common occurrence of excessive social interaction and gatherings that we have experienced in recent days. 

Below is a list of exceptions to this order:

Grocery stores
Pharmacies
Gas stations
Healthcare facilities
Hardware and home improvement stores
Banks and other financial institutions
Laundromats and dry cleaning services
Stores that principally sell supplies for children under five years
Pet stores
Liquor stores
Auto maintenance and repair
Mail and delivery stores

Any businesses/shops/offices, etc. outside of this list fall under non-essential businesses and shall cease operation as of 9:00pm today, March 21, 2020.   

While social distancing is to be exercised, it is still acceptable to get some fresh air so long as you continue to exercise appropriate social distancing and maintain your distance of at least 6 feet from others.  You are permitted to frequent our local parks for exercise, however we have eliminated access to our basketball courts and playgrounds in order to eliminate the increased potential for the transmission of germs and bacteria.

Please continue to support one another during a challenging time for our local, state, and national communities. Be certain to follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, the New Jersey Department of Health and Borough of Fair Haven.

 I ask everyone to please be patient as we continue to work to provide accurate information to the public. Stay well and we will all get through this challenging situation together.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Best regards,

Chief Joseph P. McGovern
Fair Haven Police Department
Emergency Management Coordinator