San Francisco Mayor Bans Large Gatherings Over Concern of the Wuhan Coronavirus

Bronson Stocking | March 11, 2020 4:30 PM

The Democratic mayor of San Francisco announced on Wednesday that the city is banning group events of 1,000 people or more amid growing concern over the spread of the Wuhan virus. San Francisco's large homeless population, however, will likely be allowed to roam free and defecate wherever they wish, as pointed out by our friends at Twitchy earlier.

This morning we announced that the Health Officer of San Francisco is issuing an order prohibiting all large group events of 1,000 or more persons, effective immediately.

This is necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19, and builds on our previous public health recommendations.
— London Breed (@LondonBreed) March 11, 2020

Here are recommendations for vulnerable populations, large gatherings, workplace and businesses, schools, transit and health care settings: https://t.co/k9alEDDKeW

You can also call 311 & sign up for the City’s alert service for official updates: text COVID19SF to 888-777.
— London Breed (@LondonBreed) March 11, 2020

"We know that this Order is disruptive, but it is an important step to support public health," said Mayor Breed in a press release. "We’re following the recommendations of public health officials to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. This order mirrors actions being taken by other local governments and is informed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. We know cancelling these events is a challenge for everyone and we’ve been talking with venues and event organizers about the need to protect public health."

Washington's Democratic Governor Jay Inslee similarly announced restrictions on large gatherings of 250 people or more in three counties in the Evergreen State on Wednesday. These restrictions apply to gatherings at places like sporting events, conventions, parades, concerts, festivals, and fundraisers. The restrictions do not apply to restaurants or large transportation hubs like airports. Inslee's bans are set to last through the end of March.

"This is an unprecedented public health situation and we can’t wait until we’re in the middle of it to slow it down," Gov. Inslee said during a press conference on Wednesday. "We’ve got to get ahead of the curve. One main defense is to reduce the interaction of people in our lives."