KANSAS CITY, Mo. — On Saturday, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson directed the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to issue a statewide social distancing order to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The order will take effect Monday, March 23, at 12:01 a.m. and end Monday, April 6, at 12:01 a.m., unless extended.
In accordance with the White House and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, Missourians should:
- Avoid social gatherings (planned or spontaneous) with more than 10 people.
- Avoid eating or drinking at restaurants, food courts and bars. Drive-thru, pickup and delivery options are allowed.
- No visiting nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes, or assisted-living homes unless to provide critical assistance.
- Schools will remain closed.
In his press conference Saturday afternoon, Parson said the order does not prohibit people from going to the grocery stores, gas stations, parks and banks, but people should take necessary precautions, including keeping at least 6 feet of distance between all people who are not family members.
Offices and workplaces that remain open are highly encouraged to have employees practice good hygiene and, if possible, work from home.
