'Not Where We Need To Be': Social Gatherings Still A Problem

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island has seen a slight uptick in coronavirus cases in the past weeks, as well as an uptick in hospitalizations. This increase is most likely tied to informal social gatherings, the Rhode Island Department of Health said.

Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, the director of the department, said the state is "still seeing way too many new cases."

"This is not a virus that respects boundaries between communities," she said. "We need to make sure we are all in this together. Everyone's actions matter"

Social gatherings in the state are currently limited to 15 people or fewer, which should be the same people and not different groups each night, Gov. Gina Raimondo said.

Some Rhode Islanders have complained that it's unfair to limit informal gatherings such as backyard barbecues to 15 people, while restaurants, schools, weddings and other events and gatherings allow for larger groups. This is because these events are more controlled, Raimondo said, and distancing and mask-wearing are far more likely. At a party with close friends and family, people are far more likely to be crowded close together and choose not to wear masks, she clarified.

"If you are going to be with other people, especially people who don't live in your household, it is imperative to wear a mask and practice social distancing," Alexander-Scott said.

In addition, Raimondo reminded Rhode Islanders of the "golden rule" of the pandemic: stay home if sick, even a little, and don't return to school, work or public places until they are completely well.