The state of Oklahoma will begin limiting capacity at indoor events, including youth sporting events, on Monday. Gov. Kevin Stitt announced the executive order on Thursday afternoon.Youth sporting events will be limited to four spectators per player or 50 percent of the venue’s capacity, whichever is lower. Indoor events will be at 50 percent of the venue’s capacity, but that does not include churches.
For several months, Stitt announced no new control measures. But that has shifted. Last month, he placed a closing time of 11 p.m. on indoor bars and restaurants, an order that he renewed on Thursday.
“Really it’s about hospital capacity right now," Stitt said. "With the hospitals really being exhausted, and at a point where they're getting at capacity.”
In the state’s most recent coronavirus daily report, only four percent of the state’s ICU beds were available, and more than 1,600 Oklahomans were hospitalized for the virus.
And while state leaders look forward to the expected arrival of COVID-19 vaccines next week, they are cautioning Oklahomans to continue follow safety recommendations in the meantime.
“We’re optimistic with the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine in Oklahoma, but it’s important to note that the vaccine is just part of slowing the spread,” said Commissioner of Health Dr. Lance Frye. “Your actions are making a difference. Every time you choose to follow the three W’s, you are actively protecting those around you. You might even be saving a life.”
Frye said they're adding an extra W for the coming new year: "Wait for the vaccine."
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