Thread by @GovPhilScott

Thread re today's media briefing: We continue to see a rise in COVID cases in Vermont, up from an average of 25 cases per day last week to 72 cases reported on Wednesday, 109 on Thursday and 84 today, despite our recent steps to slow the spread. 1/

Many clusters and outbreaks are tied to private social gatherings like baby showers, tailgate parties, deer camps and other small multi-household gatherings where people aren’t wearing masks or staying physically distanced, despite our warnings against these activities. 2/

We’re in a new phase of this pandemic. The days of very low risk have passed. So, unfortunately, I’m announcing several new data-driven measures to slow the spread/protect the vulnerable, targeted directly at the areas driving the case growth: bit.ly/3luflY5. 3/

We now have no choice but to restrict social gatherings, whether in homes, bars or a parking lot after a game. So, starting today, multi-household gatherings, both inside and outside, whether in public or private spaces, are prohibited. 4/

I know this is incredibly discouraging, especially because many Vermonters have worked so hard to keep each other safe and we’ve had so much success for so long. But people getting together, not being careful and letting their guard down has put us in this position. 5/

Data shows that multi-household interactions are also taking place at bars/clubs. So effective tomorrow at 10 pm, bars/clubs will be closed for in-person service. Restaurants can remain open but must close in-person service at 10 pm each night while offering takeout after 10. 6/

To assist with contact tracing, we’re requiring restaurants, museums and other customer-facing establishments to keep a log of all guests/employees, and directing Vermonters to be cooperative and honest with the @healthvermont Contact Tracing Team. 7/

As college students begin to return home for the holidays (whether from an in-state or out-of-state school), they are required to quarantine for 14 days or 7 days and a negative test. We strongly encourage these students to get tested after 7 days. 8/

We’ve also requiring telework for those who can do so and discouraging in-person meetings. Essential workers and schools can continue in-person operations but things like staff meetings should be done by video conference whenever possible. 9/

Finally, we’re pausing recreational sports, except VPA-sanctioned sports. Our kids are trying so hard but sports-related gatherings can spread the virus among multiple counties/schools. We’ll be tracking this closely and I hope it will be one of the first things to reopen. 10/

We’re at a pivotal moment. We still have an opportunity to get our arms around this alarming case growth and return to the relative stability we’re used to. But we all have to step up and recommit to following the health guidance and limit our contacts as much as possible. 11/

I thank Vermonters who’ve done their part, wearing masks, skipping parties, cancelling travel & keeping social circles small. I know it's hard to keep this up but we can get this under control, maintain hospital capacity, keep kids in school & business open, and save lives. 12/