Since Thanksgiving Day, there have been 56 new, confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Fairfield.  These numbers are higher than any the town experienced in the spring, and the rate of infection continues to increase.  First Selectman Pat Del Monaco encouraged residents to wear a mask, practice social distancing, stay home, and don't gather with people outside the household.  She says these measures are not only to reduce the spread and  protect the community, but to lessen the strain on health care workers and hospitals.  Statewide, there are currently 1,150 hospitalizations, including 330 in Fairfield County.  At the peak in late April, there were roughly 2,000 hospitalizations statewide.  Contact tracing is showing spread within households and social gatherings.  All age groups are affected, male and female.