US: Minnesota to ease certain COVID-19 restrictions in effective Jan. 11 /update 13

Event

Officials in Minnesota have issued orders to ease certain statewide restrictions effective Jan. 11 due to recent decreases in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity. Under the new directives, restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments will be allowed to operate under a more liberal set of restrictions; however, such businesses must cease service at 2200 nightly.

Gyms and fitness centers, as well as outdoor entertainment venues, such as racetracks, go-kart tracks, or performance venues, will be permitted to operate at 25-percent capacity up to a maximum of 150 people. Public pools, along with indoor venues for events and entertainment such as theaters, cinemas, concert halls, museums, stadiums, and bowling alleys, will be allowed to operate at 25-percent capacity up to a maximum of 250 people. Weddings, funerals, and religious ceremonies can continue at up to 50 percent of the venue's capacity or a maximum of 250 people; however, receptions associated with such ceremonies are prohibited.

Professional and collegiate sports teams may continue in their competitions and will be allowed to host spectators up to 25-percent capacity of the venues capacity or a maximum of 250 people. Personal care businesses, such as barbershops and hair salons, may also continue operating at 50-percent capacity; childcare centers may remain open. In all businesses, all workers who can work from home must do so. Outdoor social gatherings of up to 15 people from three different households are allowed, including for outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, golfing, and skiing.

Authorities in Minnesota have also issued a travel advisory, strongly encouraging travelers entering the state from other US states or territories, or from any international destination, to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. The quarantine period may be reduced to seven days for persons who test negative for COVID-19. Minnesota residents are also encouraged to avoid all unnecessary travel, especially to other states or countries.

Protective facemasks must be worn at all indoor businesses and public spaces. Local authorities are empowered to enforce stricter measures within their jurisdictions if they consider it necessary. Essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and shelters, as well as media, energy, transport, security, and critical manufacturing companies, may continue operating. All businesses allowed to operate must comply with certain mandates, such as adhering to social distancing guidelines, enhancing sanitation procedures, requiring the use of protective face coverings, and ensuring sick employees remain home, among other requirements.

Officials could amend the orders at short notice, depending on disease activity in 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 a disposable tissue, 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.