Coronavirus In RI: Block Island Issues Shelter-In-Place Order

NEW SHOREHAM, RI — Block Island officials have issued a shelter-in-place order for New Shoreham residents, and are strongly encouraging all visitors to avoid visiting the island for the near future in an effort to reduce the spread of the new coronavirus. Anyone who comes to the island from the mainland must immediately self-quarantine for two weeks, the town council declared this week.

On Monday, the town council amended the island's emergency declaration, which is in effect until April 15. Under the new order, all non-residents are asked to leave the island, while those that remain, both full-time or seasonal, are asked to shelter in place in their homes. Only essential workers will be allowed to commute to the island for work, while full-time residents are strongly urged to avoid traveling to the mainland unless it is absolutely necessary.

The town council issued a stern message to any tourists considering visiting the island. Following the guidance of the Rhode Island Department of Health and state officials, all restaurants and bars are closed for dine-in service, with only limited take-out service available. In addition, gatherings of 10 people or more are banned, town buildings are closed to the public and taxi service has been suspended.

"Medical capacity on the island is extremely limited. There is no capability to test for the COVID-19 virus on the island," the notice said.

Anyone on the mainland who has symptoms of illness or believes they were exposed to COVID-19 is asked to wait 14 days before returning to the island.