Gatherings of 10 or more people in Wyoming have been prohibited by an order of the state’s health officer.
Dr. Alexia Harrist, in an order issued Friday, prohibited groups of more than 10 from gathering in one area until at least April 3.
“It is an absolute fact that social distancing slows the growth of coronavirus disease,” Gov. Mark Gordon said in a news release announcing his support for the order. “I very much appreciate the willingness of our state’s residents to comply with this action. Particularly because it is now becoming clear that young adults 18 to 50 are also at risk of being hospitalized from COVID-19.”
The order does not require the closure of any additional businesses from Harrist’s order on Thursday calling for the closure of bars, theaters, gyms and other businesses likely to draw more than 10 people.
It also does not apply to grocery stories, retail businesses, gatherings at private residences, livestock auctions, government facilities, relief centers, truck stops or long-term care facilities.
It was not immediately clear how the order would be enforced.
Harrist urged Wyoming residents to obey the order to slow the spread of coronavirus.
“People of any age can spread this disease to others who are especially vulnerable to more serious or life-threatening illness,” she said. “We’ve recommended limits on gatherings, this order is an official step to put those recommendations in to action. Slowing and limiting the spread of the disease is our goal.”
