The City of Hartford is joining Connecticut's other largest cities in limiting gatherings to ten people.
Mayor Luke Bronin made the announcement Thursday afternoon, in an effort to encourage social distancing aimed at curtailing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
"We're not trying to keep people from getting out and going for a walk," said Bronin, "or getting out and going for a run."
"Those are things that actually contribute to health, not threaten health. We want you to do that by yourself, or with your small, immediate family. We don't want you bringing large groups of people together."
POLICE OFFICERS QUARANTINED AFTER TRIP TO SPAIN, POSITIVE COVID-19 TESTS
Mayor Bronin says four Hartford police officers are off duty and quarantined at home after testing positive for the virus.
The officers left for Spain before that nation was locked down. When they returned, they were ordered into quarantine.
"We instructed those officers not to report for duty for 14 days," said the mayor, "and we're very glad that we did."
Bronin says that if the infected officers had come back to work immediately, it's likely other members of the department would have been infected.
ENSURING THERE'S HOSPITAL SPACE FOR A SURGE IN CASES
Planning for the expected spike in COVID-19 cases, the city is working with its three major hospitals to make sure there are enough beds for everyone in need.
It's an effort Gov. Lamont has emphasized at the state level, suggesting temporary MASH-type units or the use of college dorms.
According to Mayor Bronin, they're seeking "potential sites that can be used as hospital annexes" if needed.