In an effort to slow the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, the state of New Jersey has passed new social distancing guidelines. The amount of people allowed at outdoor gatherings has dropped from 150 to 25 people. Most indoor gatherings have been limited to 10 people or less. Furthermore, all indoor sports will be suspended until January 2, 2021.

When asked about these new sports restrictions, Governor Murphy commented, “I’m a huge sports fan and all of our kids play sports. I hope and intend to see the winter sports season in January. I want to see, especially that high school senior, get to play her or his last season and I value the importance of sports for the physical and mental well-being of our children. But we are seeing outbreaks related to indoor sports and this is a prudent short-term step to slow the spread.”

Though the new rules can get in the way of the holiday season and the sports we love, it seems important to follow them now more than ever. In New Jersey alone, an average of 5,045 cases are being confirmed daily and in just two weeks, the number of cases increased by 25%. Public health officials have long argued that these restrictions are necessary in stopping the spread and until COVID-19 is gone completely, they advise citizens to wear masks, wash our hands, and socially distance ourselves from others. 

“We know that we’re just months away from pulling ourselves out of the darkness. But, this virus is still as deadly as ever.” Governor Murphy urges us. “We can’t let up yet. Mask up. Social distance. Wash your hands. Use common sense.”