Since Friday, nine additional Connecticut residents have tested positive for the coronavirus, bringing the total number of positive cases in the state to 20.

The first cases of coronavirus have been detected in Hartford County, New Haven and Norwalk. 

The first cases of coronavirus have been detected in Hartford County, New Haven and Norwalk. There are also three new cases in Litchfield County.

The Norwalk patient is a man in his 40s and has been in contact with health officials. Mayor Harry Rilling says the patient is in quarantine in his home.

Officials are urging residents to limit social gatherings as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

"Social distancing helps slow the spread of this virus. This is critically important as it can prevent a lot of people from getting sick all at once and overwhelming the health care system, which is also referred to as flattening the curve," said Norwalk Director of Health Deanna D'Amore. 

"With spring around the corner, I know people will be tempted to get together in groups outside and indoors, especially our young people and those home from college. I cannot stress this enough – please limit social interactions for the foreseeable future."

Rilling also declared a state of civil preparedness emergency, which allows him to have greater authority to implement strategies to protect residents and seek any necessary funding.

Norwalk schools will be closed beginning Monday and City Hall will have limited hours for the next two weeks.