FITCHBURG — Health Director Steven Curry announced Friday afternoon the city has its first confirmed case of the coronavirus, and the resident has been released from the hospital to recover.

“A confirmed COVID-19 shows that residents still need to protect themselves,” said Curry. “I am happy to report that the 56-year-old male resident was experiencing a fever but has been released from the hospital and is feeling better and at home resting and recovering.”

“He is under isolation regulations as determined by the Mass. Department of Public Health, and one household contact will be ordered quarantined,” Curry said.

Over 300 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed across the state.

Mayor Stephen DiNatale urged residents to remain vigilant and to continue practicing proper sanitation procedures, hygiene, and social distancing.

DPW Commissioner Nicolas Bosonetto on Friday ordered the closing of all city playgrounds and dog parks until the state of emergency is lifted.

Parks, fields, courts and tracks continue to be open but the public is ordered to avoid large gatherings.

The UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital also opened a testing tent for drive-through screening of the coronavirus on its Leominster campus. The drive-up tent will only test patients who have a doctor’s order to be tested.

The city is also looking to set up a coronavirus hotline and is asking for volunteer nurses to answer virus-related questions from residents. If you are interested, email Curry at scurry@fitchburgma.gov.

“This week has been one of the most challenging times for our city,” DiNatale said.

He praised the leadership of the city’s department heads, city employees, local nonprofits and area organizations for stepping up to support the city during this time of need.

“We have several more weeks ahead of us that will push our city to the limits — I have faith that these individuals will continue to make us all proud,” he said.