Rhode Island was looking to wind down COVID-19 orders in recent weeks. But amid a swift surge in cases and hospitalizations, Gov. Dan McKee announced new measures, including a partial mask mandate, as health care facilities reach a 'breaking point.'
Early cases of COVID-19 are believed to be linked to a live-animal market in Wuhan, China.Rhode Island was looking to wind down COVID-19 orders in recent weeks. But amid a swift surge in cases and hospitalizations, Gov. Dan McKee announced new measures Wednesday, including a partial mask mandate, as health care facilities reach a"breaking point."
"Now's the time to act. It's not a time to just sit and wait," McKee said during a press briefing."As we expected, because it is getting colder outside and more people are congregating inside, we've seen an increase of the COVID cases in Rhode Island, which has now brought us to this point where we need to address this issue head-on."
Starting Monday, masks will be required regardless of vaccination status for employees and patrons ages 2 and up at indoor venues with a capacity of over 250 people, including restaurants, retailers and entertainment venues. For venues under that capacity, masking or proof of vaccination will be required.
Additionally, masking or proof of vaccination will be required at indoor office spaces for public and private employers.Rhode Island Democratic Gov. Dan McKee, front, speaks to an audience during his inaugural address during a ceremonial inauguration ceremony, March 7, 2021, in front of the Statehouse, in Providence, R.I.
"Masking works, and it is a valuable tool that we have to use during this time to layer with vaccination as we advance our vaccination rate, particularly with the boosters," Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health, said during the briefing.
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