Health Care

Massachusetts has reported its first coronavirus death, a Suffolk County man in his 80s who had existing health conditions that put him at a higher risk, as statewide cases hit 413.

Citing heightened risks that low-wage workers and immigrants face during the coronavirus outbreak, a coalition of public health experts and activists called Friday for officials to ensure equity in the state's response to the virus.

Citing more than 17,000 job losses since the coronavirus pandemic hit, Massachusetts hoteliers warned that "the bleeding isn't stopping" and that they need government help to stave off further damage to their businesses.

Gov. Charlie Baker activated the Massachusetts National Guard on Thursday, planning to use up to 2,000 members for "logistical support and other assistance" in the state's response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Framingham retailer TJX Cos. is closing all 4,500 stores worldwide for two weeks in the latest retail fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.

Greater Worcester is projected to have among the worst shortfalls in the number of available hospital beds in the country, virtually no matter how hard the coronavirus pandemic hits.

Four additional coronavirus cases were reported for Worcester County on Thursday afternoon, while the Massachusetts total jumped by 72 to 328.

The $10-million fund set up Monday by the Gov. Charlie Baker Administration to provide relief to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus was open for three days.

Milford Regional Medical Center is taking additional precautions to add capacity for treating coronavirus patients and keeping staff and patients healthy.

Quest Diagnostics in Marlborough is ramping up to be able to test 20,000 people per day across the country, and eventually 2,000 to 3,000 samples per day from Massachusetts patients.