In a press conference on Monday, March 16, 2020, President Donald Trump announced that Americans should avoid gatherings of 10 or more people and avoid seating at bars and restaurants to stem the spread of the coronavirus. This announcement comes one day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced that gatherings of 50 or more people should be canceled or postponed for at least eight weeks, which would be until early May, due to the coronavirus disease COVID-19.
Examples of such events include weddings, festivals, parades, sporting events and any other large form of assembly.
If people choose to risk hosting events, the CDC urged them to adhere to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing.
The effects of the coronavirus are being felt all across the country and throughout all industries
Many bars and restaurants have closed or been forced to suspend operations for the next several weeks. Major sporting associations have taken similar measures and canceled games and tournaments. Even businesses like Facebook and Nike are asking workers to stay home to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
Although this recent guidance from the CDC does not apply to schools or other higher-learning institutions, many have already extended spring breaks or asked students to attend the remainder of the semester remotely.
Employer Takeaway
The COVID-19 disease has upended operations in nearly every industry, as confirmed by mass closures and a declining stock market.
Employers should consider whether they are doing enough to protect their employees and their businesses from COVID-19.
Speak with Benefits Tower, LLC for more guidance during this uncertain time.