During his Wednesday afternoon address, Governor Andy Beshear issued new restrictions as Kentucky combats rapidly rising COVID-19 infection and death rates.

On Wednesday, 2,753 new cases of COVID-19 were reported. It's the fourth-highest total Kentucky has seen since the beginning of the pandemic. There were also 15 new COVID-related deaths announced.

Beshear says the five highest daily case totals in Kentucky have occurred during the last week. Consequently, new restrictions and recommendations have been implemented.

From Friday, November 20 through Sunday, December 13th, it will be recommended that private gatherings in homes be limited to no more than eight individuals--theoretically a maximum of two households. Additionally, attendance at event spaces--for weddings and funerals, for example--will be limited to 25 total participants. The governor said such limitations will not be applied to church attendance.

For restaurants, it will be reminiscent of last spring:

Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
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However, a $40 million Team Kentucky Food and Beverage Relief Fund has been established to help struggling bars and restaurants. All businesses must confirm they will comply with the governor's orders.

Gyms, fitness centers, and pools will also be affected by new mandates:

Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
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With regards to sports, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) has postponed all fall sports until after December 13th. Also, there will be no indoor practices. There may be individual lessons but masks will be required.

And, regarding Kentucky schools:

Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
Governor Andy Beshear/Facebook
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Governor Beshear also strongly encouraged those working in office settings to work from home, if at all possible. In fact, he suggested working from home for ANYONE who can.

The governor's mandates and recommendations will be implemented beginning this Friday, November 20th.

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