The Governor stated that we are now in “a major surge of COVID-19.” The good news is that Maryland is still doing better than other states because of the strong steps taken in the spring. The state’s positivity testing rate is lower than 42 other states although we are beginning to trend upward in recent days.
Although the statewide metrics do not warrant more restrictive action at this time, there is concern with the steady increase of the virus.
The emphasis of the Governor’s message is that Maryland is prepared but Marylanders “cannot afford to let our guard down,” we are not “immune free” and that we must resist “COVID fatigue.” The Governor urged that we remain diligent in wearing masks in the public spaces of all businesses across the state, avoid crowds, and to exercise physical distancing in outdoor public areas.
Local elected leaders, health departments, and regulatory and law enforcement agencies were asked to “step up” the levels of compliance enforcement to equal the efforts utilized in the spring.
The Governor announced a travel advisory asking Marylanders to avoid out of state travel to any states or areas of the country that have a positivity testing rate of 10% or higher. If you travel to those areas, upon returning you are asked to be tested and self-quarantine until the test results are received.
In his most emphatic statement of the press conference, Governor Hogan asked all Marylanders to “Wear Your Damn Mask!”
Also see:
- Nov. 6, 2020 — Health Commissioner Updated Directive and Order Regarding Face Coverings in Public
- Nov. 5, 2020 — COVID-19 Relief Funds Now Available for Maryland Restaurants, Artists, Entertainment Venues
- Governor Larry Hogan’s October 22 COVID-19 Press Conference
- Governor Larry Hogan’s July 29 COVID-19 Press Conference
- Governor Larry Hogan’s July 22 COVID-19 Press Conference
COVID-19: GBC Coverage and Response
Special Update on State and Federal Legislation Related to COVID-19
Coverage of GBC Member companies’ philanthropic responses to COVID-19