COVID-19 Update: Gov. Evers Bans Gatherings of 10 or More, Extends School Closure Indefinitely

PRESS RELEASE:

Gov. Tony Evers this afternoon issued a new executive order that further restricts mass gatherings, closes bars and restaurants and extends the school closures indefinitely to stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

• Effective 5 p.m. today, March 17, public and private mass gatherings of 10 people or more are prohibited.
• Effective 5 p.m. today, March 17, all bars and restaurants shall close, although restaurants will be allowed to continue providing take-out or delivery services.
• Effective 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, all public and private schools and institutions of higher education in Wisconsin shall close for the duration of the public health emergency.

The order makes exceptions for transportation, educational institutions, child care, hotels, military, law enforcement, food pantries, hospitals, long-term care facilities, grocery stores and convenience stores, utility facilities, job centers, and courts, among other entities.

At a press conference this afternoon, Evers was joined by state health officials, who reported that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Wisconsin has hit 72. Community spread is suspected to be happening, particularly in Dane County.

People who might be exhibiting mild symptoms of coronavirus are asked to stay home and not get tested, to reserve medical supplies and capacity for people who are seriously ill or at a high risk.

All state residents are asked to stay home, if possible, and to avoid using childcare services to free up those services for essential workers.

Gov. Evers said he plans to speak with state legislative leaders tomorrow to talk about a legislative package to help workers and businesses in Wisconsin.

i'LL UPDATE YOU WHEN I KNOW MORE. 

Be well, be safe, be strong.

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