Additional Limits On Gatherings Announced By County Exec Ball

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Additional limits on gatherings have been announced by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, which take effect Friday at 5 p.m. Only 10 people are allowed indoors and 25 people outdoors at gatherings that include weddings, recreation sports and programs, association clubs and social/fraternal organizations. The order excludes retail stores, offices, food service establishments, religious gatherings, indoor theaters and outdoor entertainment venues.

Howard County Recreation & Parks also will be cancelling all upcoming tournaments and any other programs subject to change will be posted online here. Recreation and parks will continue to operate childcare programs at their current capacity.

“Last night, Howard County reached an average rate of 26.7 cases per 100,000 residents, an increase from 19.1 cases per 100,000 just last week,” Ball said. “At this point there is widespread community transmission of COVID-19, and every individual action we take is vital to controlling and limiting the further spread of this virus. The alarms are sounding, and if you haven’t already, rethink any plans to host or attend a large gathering with family and friends. Especially with the upcoming holidays, it is critical for all our residents to understand the importance of mitigation measures like wearing a mask, keeping their distance, and washing their hands frequently.”

Sunday, Howard County reported a 5.12 percent positivity rate and a case rate of 26.7 per 100,000 residents. Last week, Howard County administered 11,945 tests. Many residents are planning to get tested prior to the Thanksgiving holiday, which has increased wait times and results turnaround, Ball noted.

"It’s imperative residents remember that a COVID-19 test is only indicative of a point in time and should not be considered an all clear unless you have been properly quarantining. Howard County residents must still wear masks, keep physical distance and wash hands frequently," Ball said.