City of Joplin temporarily bans some public gatherings due to coronavirus

In an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Joplin City Council has passed an ordinance that bans any public gathering of 50 or more people for at least 30 days, or until the mayor amends the declaration based on changing events. This does exclude educational institutions, daycare facilities, and business operations in the corporate limits of Joplin.

Council says businesses such as bars or food establishments offering drinking or dining-in shall be limited to 50% of their normal capacity or 50 people, whichever is less, including staff. This includes restaurants, entertainment venues, and gym and fitness facilities, that are still open. City staff are still working out the exact details on which places are and are not excluded. They still recommend practicing social distancing to help prevent spread of the virus.

As of Wednesday evening, 24 cases have been confirmed in the state, including one death in the Columbia area. There are still zero confirmed cases of the virus in the KZRG listening area. There are over 8,500 cases in the U.S. with over 145 deaths. Most people who do contract the virus do recover, but it is still very dangerous to the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

These measures come as the White House has implemented guidelines known as “15 days to slow the spread”:

• Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.
• If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.
• If your children are sick, keep them at home. Contact your medical provider.
• If someone in your household has tested positive for the Coronavirus, keep the entire household at home.
• If you are an older American, stay home and away from other people.
• If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition—such as a significant heart or lung problem—stay home and away from other people.