Governor Issues New Restrictions to Limit Coronavirus Spread
The Berkshire Eagle.Com reports the governor brought down the hammer Monday — stronger masking order, reducing gathering limits, early closures — in an attempt to reduce the rising number of novel coronavirus cases in the state.
"The simple truth is this, too many of us have become complacent in our daily lives. I know it's hard for people to hear me say this time and time again, but it's true," Gov. Charlie Baker said at Monday's press conference. "If we do nothing and stay on the track we're on now, we'll create capacity problems for our health-care system by the end of the calendar year."
Last several weeks have seen a spike in new cases — close to a 1,000 a day compared to 200-300 over the late summer — and a seven-day positive rate average that's climbed from 0.8 percent to 1.8-1.9 percent. Daily case counts are up by 300 percent and inpatient hospital counts by 145 percent.
A summary of the new orders going into effect on Friday, Nov. 6.
1) A stay-at-home advisory from 10 p.m. at night to 5 a.m. in the morning with exceptions for work, critical errands and taking a walk
2) Restaurant, indoor and outdoor activities, cultural and recreational facilities close at 9:30 p.m., although restaurants can continue to provide takeout food past that time. No alcohol or recreational pot sales after 9:30 p.m.
3) Wearing masks in public for anyone age 5 and older; medical exclusions will require proof.
4) Gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors.
Full listings for each order can be found by following the links within the lists.
There will be civil penalties for violating these regulations but they will be up to local enforcement.
READ MORE: See how some companies are changing their businesses to combat COVID-19
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