Governor Lou Leon Guerrero has announced the “conservative” lifting of COVID-19 restrictions specifically for outdoor gatherings as we approach the height of the holiday season and residents celebrate this cherished time of togetherness.
Effective Saturday, December 18, social gathering limits for outdoor events will increase from 75 to 100 persons. The governor said this is the only change to COVID-19 restrictions that she will be making at this time.
The governor’s announcement was made upon the advice and counsel of her healthcare experts.
“If you have been tracking our latest numbers, our CAR score was as high as 47.7 and is now 0.4. Our COVID hospitalization admissions went from 85 down to 4. And over the last few weeks, we have been reporting fewer COVID-related deaths,” Leon Guerrero said.
The governor made it clear, however, that Guam and the rest of the world are not yet out of the woods, especially with the discovery of the new omicron variant which is said to be highly transmissible.
“The good news is that vaccinations and boosters do work and are proving effective at preventing the severe illness caused by Omicron. While we do not at this time have any confirmed cases of Omicron, it is only a matter of time. That is why we must do what we can now to prevent a fourth surge,” Leon Guerrero said.
According to the governor, Guam must ‘stay the course’ and continue testing for the virus, tracking close contacts, and continuing to provide monoclonal antibody treatments so those who test positive for COVID get better faster.
“Again, I cannot stress enough that we have the tools to protect ourselves and the ones we love from hospitalization and the worst case scenario – preventable death … Continue practicing the three Ws. Continue strengthening your best defense by getting vaccinated. And if it has been six months or more since your last COVID-19 vaccine, renew your personal protection with booster shots,” Leon Guerrero said.
The governor added that they will continue to advocate for the most vulnerable of our community — our kids, our manåmko’, and our loved ones with other illnesses — to prioritize getting their vaccinations and booster shots.
“As Christmas nears, I know families and friends will be gathering. I know there will be fiesta tables set with dishes contributed by multiple families. And I know there will be a careful return to the holidays we once celebrated so comfortably. All that your island asks of you … is that you do so safely and responsibly. Because the progress we protect today will be a testament to the progress of tomorrow,” the governor said,
She added: “I know we can continue beating the odds because we have done it three times before. And we will continue to come out on top. From the bottom of my heart, Si Yu’os Ma’åse’. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Guam!
##
