ROCHESTER — Town Health Director Karen Walega and Town Administrator Suzanne Szyndlar announced on April 2 that the Department of Public Health identified the first case of coronavirus in their town. 

The officials stated that the person with the virus is in isolation and health officials are working to identify anyone who came within 6 feet of that person for more than 15 minutes. 

Health officials will also monitor the patient, but will not release any further information about their identity. 

The town urged its residents to “regardless of your age, and no matter if you feel sick or not, follow social distancing guidelines and stay at home away from non-family contacts at this time.” 

Town and health officials also cautioned residents about efforts to get exercise.  

“While residents are encouraged to get outside for fresh air, it is unsafe to have groups of people at the playgrounds or playing team and contact sports,” the town wrote in a release on its website. 

All town offices, Plumb Library, the Council on Aging and the Highway Barn are closed until May 4. All non-essential businesses in Rochester will remain closed until May 4th per an order by Governor Baker.