COLUMBUS, Ind. — Bartholomew County Health Officer Dr. Brian Niedbalski asked community residents to continue mask wearing when out in public places where close contact with individuals outside of their own households will occur.
Niedbalski issued the statement as the state lifts its mask mandate for Indiana, per Gov. Eric Holcomb’s executive order.
Indiana’s requirement for masks continues for schools, vaccination centers and testing clinics and state buildings.
Niedbalski said it was important that the community continue its work to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by following all public safety measures and guidelines about masks, physical distancing of 6 feet and hand hygiene.
“I will continue to strongly encourage our local businesses and entities to require the wearing of masks for their customers and staff, for the protection of themselves and others,” he said. “As we work towards higher vaccination numbers, we must remain vigilant.”
The health department has set the following guidance and capacity limits:
Social gatherings, public meetings and all other events are limited to no more than 250 people, adhering to social distancing guidelines. IHSAA events may not exceed 500, with 250 maximum per opposing team, with social distancing and masks required.
Bartholomew County bars and restaurants will have physical distancing recommendations which should be followed, according tot he health department, including spacing tables 6 feet apart and masks encouraged when not eating or drinking.
Movie theaters, bowling alleys and indoor entertainment venues, large retailers, gyms, fitness centers and personal services should screen employees daily with masks strongly recommended as well as social distancing guidelines.
For more on this story, and how some businesses and organizations are handling the new guidelines, see Wednesday’s Republic.
