Philadelphia announced tough new coronavirus restrictions on Monday as cases have risen dramatically in the city.
The positivity rate has reached 13% in Philadelphia, and new cases have risen 700% over the last two months. “We may totally exceed the hospital capacity in Philadelphia by the end of 2020,” said Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley.
The new restrictions are aimed at smaller gatherings inside the home, where people often don’t wear face masks or socially distance. Those gatherings are expected to increase during Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Beginning Friday, Nov. 20, Philadelphia will prohibit indoor gatherings for parties, watching sports, group meals, weddings, funerals, or baby showers. Outdoor gatherings will be limited to 10% occupancy or 10 people per 1,000 square feet.
Indoor dining at restaurants will cease, and outdoor dining will be restricted to four people per table. Retail stores will be limited to five people per 1,000 square feet, and all staff and customers must wear masks.
Gyms, youth and community sports, museums, libraries, bowling alleys, arcades, casinos, and senior day services will have to cease operations.
Religious institutions will be reduced to 5% capacity, and high schools and colleges will be restricted to conducting classes online only.
The restrictions will remain in place until Jan. 1, 2021.
