Health orders updated, vaccines available

Significantly updated statewide public health orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic went into effect Tuesday and are now available online, according to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH).

While the statewide order for mask use (Public Health Order #4) is ending, WDH recommends the continued use of face masks in indoor public places and when common-sense physical distancing cannot be maintained among people who don’t live in the same household.

 “COVID-19 has not yet gone away so we need to act with caution and personal responsibility for a while longer to ensure progress in the right direction while our vaccination efforts continue,” said Dr. Alexia Harrist, state health officer and state epidemiologist with WDH

 Harrist noted mask use and other requirements related to schools are not changing.  

Restrictions related to restaurants, bars, gymnasiums and theaters are being removed from the public health orders, and indoor school event requirements are being updated.

 In addition, limitations on personal gatherings and restrictions on outdoor events are being removed. Indoor events of more than 500 people may be held at 50 percent of venue capacity with certain face mask protocols for large indoor events. The 50-person limit in organized sporting events and artistic performances will also be eliminated.

 The updated orders can be found online at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/infectious-disease-epidemiology-unit/disease/novel-coronavirus/covid-19-orders-and-guidance/.

Local vaccinations

Moderna COVID vaccination appointments are still available for the Vaccine clinic on March 25 at the Fair Building.

People age 18 or over, or those who have a medical conditions, caregivers, homeless, congregate living, or those who work in the wide range of occupations that now qualify (agriculture, food, hotels, transportation, trucking, animal care/supply, roads, waste, water, sewer, plumbing, electric, gas, oil, retail, in home services… and more) may call Hot Springs County Public Health at 307-864-3311 to ask for a March 25 appointment at the Fair Building.

Through HSC Public Health COVID vaccines are now available for Hot Springs County residents 18 and over. Register online at hscounty.com/vaccine or by calling HSC Public Health or Red Rock Family Practice.

More information about getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Wyoming can be found at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/immunization/wyoming-covid-19-vaccine-information/.