Tighten up: New virus limits are announced

December 11, 2020

Gov. Ralph Northam has announced new restrictions on the size of social gatherings, along with late-night stay-at-home requirements, in response to the spread of COVID-19.

During a press conference yesterday afternoon, the governor said social gatherings will now be limited to 10 people. Previously, the limit was 25.

This limit does not apply to religious gatherings or employment or education settings.

Further, there is a modified order requiring people to stay at home from midnight to 5 a.m., unless they are traveling to or from work or otherwise need to travel somewhere.

Also, Northam emphasized that face coverings are required for everyone age five and older when you are indoors around other people; when you are outdoors but cannot maintain physical distance of at least six feet; when you are at work; and when you are attending outdoor group activities.

The new restrictions take effect at midnight Dec. 14 and will stay in place through Jan. 31, Northam said.

The governor’s press conference began with him noting that the spread of the virus in Southwest Virginia is particularly rapid and concerning. He played a video of a health care worker from the Ballad Health system who pleaded with local residents to put on a mask, distance, wash their hands frequently and practice other COVID-19 precautions. She expressed deep frustration with local folks who refuse to do so.