Though it was already a recommendation, a formal letter issued Thursday banned all mass gatherings such as church services and festivals across Kentucky.
The prohibitive measure states what Gov. Andy Beshear had previously recommended. Beshear made the announcement in his Thursday press conference.
Mass gatherings include but are not limited to community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based or sporting events; parades; concerts; festivals; conventions; fundraisers; and similar activities.
“I am a person of deep faith. I am a deacon in my church and this is a hard decision,” Beshear said. “This is not a test of faith. This is something we must do to keep each other safe.”
For the avoidance of doubt, a mass gathering does not include normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, libraries, shopping malls and centers, or other spaces where persons may be in transit. It also does not include typical office environments, factories, or retail or grocery stores where large numbers of people are present, but maintain appropriate social distancing.
Any gathering, regardless of whether it is a mass gathering prohibited under the order, shall to the extent practicable implement Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, including:
• maintaining a distance of 6 feet between persons;
• encouraging good hygiene measures, including regular, thorough handwashing, and providing adequate hygiene materials, including hand-sanitizing options;
• encouraging people who are sick to remain home or leave the premises; and
•regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.
The Department for Public Health has delegated to local health departments the authority to take all necessary measures to implement this order.
While other states have provided a specific limit on the number of people, Kentucky is not, but rather mandating space between people. The letter is consistent with CDC and White House recommendations to limit gatherings of people. It does not close offices, factories or retail, but those businesses need to follow best practices of social distancing.
—–
Click here for all of our coronavirus coverage.
The Owensboro Health coronavirus hotline is available 24/7 by calling 877-888-6647. Call the hotline before seeking in-person care. More information from OH can be found here.
For the latest information and data on COVID-19 in Kentucky visit kycovid19.ky.gov or dial the Kentucky state hotline at 800-722-5725.
For the latest health guidelines and resources from the CDC, visit their website here.
