US: Health officials in Pennsylvania maintain COVID-19 restrictions as of Jan. 8 /update 31

Event

As of Jan. 8, authorities in Pennsylvania are keeping certain restrictions on gatherings and business operations in place to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). A set of stricter restrictions, which had been imposed Dec. 12, expired Jan. 4.

Under the current directives, employees must work from home, unless it is impossible for the business to operate without on-site personnel. Specific operating capacity limits are in force for indoor dining at restaurants. On-premises consumption of alcohol is prohibited, except with meals. All establishments must suspend in-person sale of alcohol nightly by 2300.

Personal care businesses may operate at 50-percent capacity and by appointment only. Gyms and fitness centers may also open at 50-percent capacity; reservations and outdoor exercises are encouraged. Indoor entertainment centers, such as theaters and museums, may operate at 50-percent capacity. All other businesses may open at 75-percent capacity. All businesses must comply with strict social distancing and hygiene mandates. Places of worship are encouraged to limit the number of people attending services.

Limitations on the size of gatherings and attendance at public and private events remain in place. Such restrictions vary by type of event, capacity of the given venue, and whether the gathering takes place indoors or outdoors. The use of facemasks is required for all individuals aged two or older in all indoor settings when members of different households are present, and in outdoor settings when social distancing measures cannot be maintained.

Local officials have the authority to tighten restrictions within their jurisdictions if they consider it necessary. In the city of Philadelphia, indoor dining remains banned until at least Jan. 15.

Travel Restrictions
The government of Pennsylvania continues to advise residents to avoid travel within or outside the commonwealth. Travelers entering Pennsylvania from any other US state or territory, or any international destination, are required to self-quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. However, incoming travelers can avoid the quarantine requirement by providing proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 using a test taken no more than 72 hours prior to their arrival in the state. Travelers who have taken a test but have not received the results must self-quarantine until the results are delivered. Individuals traveling for work or medical reasons, as well as military personnel on orders, or persons transiting Pennsylvania, are exempt.

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.