Governor Gavin Newsom announced March 11 that public health experts in California suggest canceling events of 250 people or more. The recommendation stands until the end of March to prevent the potential spread of the new coronavirus.
Attendees of smaller events should try to maintain a distance between people of about 6 feet, the officials suggested. People who are at greater risk due to existing health problems or advanced age should only attend gatherings of about 10 people.
“Each of us has extraordinary power to slow the spread of this disease,” Newsom said in a press release. “Not holding that concert or community event can have cascading effects—saving dozens of lives and preserving critical health care resources that your family may need a month from now.”
On March 11, the Orange County Health Care Agency also issued updated guidelines:
- High-risk populations, which include older adults (ages 60 and higher) as well as people who have serious, chronic medical conditions (like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease) are at higher risk for contracting COVID-19. These individuals should avoid crowds as much as possible as well cruise travel and non-essential air travel.
- Residents should practice good health hygiene, which includes washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve (not hands).
- Minimize risk through social distancing whenever possible, which includes limiting attendance at large gatherings.
- Maintain vigilance and personal readiness which includes being prepared if there is COVID-19 in your household or a disruption of daily activities in your community. For example, maintain a supply of medications, food and other essentials in your house.
