After staffer case, Lamont again tests negative
Deputy spokesman is third positive in proximity to gov.
Gov. Ned Lamont tested negative for COVID-19 on Sunday after being in close proximity to deputy spokesman Rob Blanchard, who tested positive for the coronavirus over the weekend.
The governor’s chief spokesman Max Reiss confirmed Lamont’s negative test on Monday.
Blanchard, who was close to Lamont as recently as Thursday, said hebegantodisplay symptoms on Friday and opted not to come to workat the Capitol. Hewill quarantine for the next twoweeksandhasbeencooperating with contract tracers.
“This is another example of the necessity to get tested and take all necessary measures to protect yourself and others,” Blanchard wrote on Twitter.
Blanchard is the third person in close proximity to Lamont who has tested positive for the coronavirus; Reiss tested positive for COVID-19 on Nov. 13, while a state trooper onLamont’s15-membersecurity teamtested positive onNov. 18. Blanchard said hewasnot sure how he contracted the virus. Contact tracing is underway among Lamont’s staff, and all affected members of the administration will self-quarantine.
“We have implemented further protocols to limit contact with the governor, but this is yet another reminder that the virus is spreading across our state and across the country,” said Paul Mounds, Lamont’s chief of staff. “We all must continue to keep our guard up by wearing masks, avoiding gatherings, and taking necessary precautions like washing our hands regularly. Our administration, as wehave demonstrated already, will take this case seriously and abide by the guidelines.”
Blanchard is often seen with Lamont at press conferences and has frequent contact with reporters. TheCouranthasdetermined that only one reporter had limited contact with Blanchard this past week.