Press conference from our governor.
Quote
Mentioned last week's presser warning of possible action to be taken
Most key metrics have "worsened considerably" all over the state
Positivity rate has gone over 5% for the first time in 137 days (June 25)
11 of 24 jurisdictions are over 5%
Hospitalizations are at their highest level since June 13
We are in the "red zone" for cases per 100k, 19.8
Increase of 36% in the past week
Case rates above 10/100k in 18 jurisdictions, above 20/100k in 8 jurisdictions
Alleghany has been spiking, new tests location opening there this week
Family gatherings, indoor dining and workplace are the biggest points of spread
Mentioned that COVID fatigue is a concern, people mot following proper guidelines
"We must and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal"
Effective tomorrow: Bars and restaurants to be at 50% for indoor dining
Customers who are not seated CAN NOT BE SERVED PERIOD
MDH issuing public health advisory strongly advising against any gathering of 25 people or more
Travel advisory regarding ALL out of state travel
ALL Marylanders are advised to not travel to any state in the "red zone" (38 states)
YOU MUST POSTPONE ANY TRAVEL TO THESE STATES
If you must leave the state, you MUST self quarantine
All state employees will be mandatory telework
Strongly advising all employers to telework where possible
MDH is activating hospital surge capacity, adding beds, and providing support to nursing homes
"All of our orders are in full effect and will be enforced to the fullest extent of the law"
Counties have the primary responsibility to enforce these to the fullest extent of the law
Violators are facing fines, jail time, and revocation of their licenses for failure to comply
Complimenting Baltimore City for shutting down places in violation
Counties have the full authority to issue more strict policies than the state if they deem it is in their best interest
Said that we can change these guidelines if things continue to decline, and will do so if needed.
"Virus doesn't care that you're tired of it or who you voted for. Maryland was able to crush the curve, and with your help we will do it again."
Dr. Ted Delbridge speaking:
Emphasizing getting a flu shot
Hospitals are getting full with patients who put off other treatments and the flu
"The entirety of Maryland's health care system is ready for the next battle"
"Please wear the mask, the damn mask if you have one"
Pretty much a case of "we tried nothing and we're all out of ideas" while he keeps trying to toot his own horn, they're not enforcing social distancing and masks, despite all the claims that they're going to. Our county is just twiddling their thumbs about it.
Quote
Outdoor and indoor gatherings at public and private facilities, private homes and any public space are limited to no more than 10 people, unless the location has a fire marshal-rated maximum occupancy. If the location has a fire-marshal rated maximum occupancy, then the gathering is limited to 25% of that occupancy.
Youth sports gatherings are allowed with no spectators, except for parents or legal guardians. Social distancing and face coverings will be required for those in attendance not participating in the sporting activity.
Occupancy limits -- Religious facilities, retail establishments and malls, indoor recreational establishments, casinos, fitness centers, personal services, theaters, indoor dining at food service establishments, outdoor entertainment venues, other recreational establishments and other businesses are capped at up to 25% of maximum occupancy.
Foodservice Establishments:
Indoor dining rooms may remain open at 25% capacity and must close by 11 p.m.
Foodservice establishments may not serve customers who are not seated and eating.
Foodservice establishments may not serve customers beverages in indoor seating areas if they are not also eating.
Businesses with BD7 or D tavern licenses and with a separate packaged goods section that was in operation prior to March 5, 2020, may operate those areas under Section IV of the Executive Order.
City has enacted the following.