US: Health officials plan to ease coronavirus disease-related restrictions in Wyoming effective Jan. 26 /update 15

Event

Authorities in Wyoming have issued orders to ease restrictions statewide starting Jan. 26 to reopen the economy amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The new measures will remain in place until at least Feb. 14.

Under the new directives, authorities allow indoor gatherings of up to 25-percent of the venue's capacity or a maximum of 250 people, with social distancing measures and individuals wearing facemasks. Outdoor gatherings of up to 50-percent of the venue's capacity or a maximum of 500 people can also occur with social distancing measures and the use of facemasks. Gatherings of more than 10 people without social distancing measures remain banned.

Other restrictions remain unchanged. Food and drink establishments can continue operating without capacity or time limits but must ensure social distancing measures between tables and limit each table to a maximum of six people. Gyms may continue to operate with up to 25 people per group fitness classes and must allow a maximum of one client per 11 square meters (120 square feet). Personal care businesses can also operate with employees and customers wearing facemasks and maintaining proper distance between work stations.

Businesses such as retail stores and cinemas can continue to operate without specific capacity restrictions, as long as enhanced sanitation procedures and social distancing measures are in place. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and banks, as well as businesses and services in the healthcare, agriculture, transport, security, media, and critical infrastructure sectors, are considered essential and are not subject to mandatory closures or limits.

The use of facemasks statewide for individuals 12 years or older is mandatory whenever they are inside businesses, government buildings, healthcare facilities, or public transportation. Individual counties may opt-out of the state's requirements if they have lower levels of COVID-19 activity.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e. covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

WHO Coronavirus Knowledge Base
State of Wyoming - COVID-19 Updates
Governor of Wyoming - COVID-19 Orders