Colorado Governor Jared Polis spoke Friday about the state's plan for distributing a COVID-19 vaccine when one is available. He held the news conference shortly after Denver officials rolled out a tougher mask mandate and said they will impose new restrictions on public and private gatherings as the city sees an increase in cases.
One public health order, effectively immediately, requires people in Denver to wear face coverings in all outdoor settings, with some exceptions. People who are outdoors alone or only near household members don't need to wear a mask outside. The order also exempts organized sports like high school football.
The second order announced by Denver officials Friday reduces the number of people allowed to gather in "unregulated settings" from 10 to five. It will be in effect until November 16, according to Mayor Michael Hancock.
Christmas and Thanksgiving are just around the corner and people must "do the hard work that is needed now so we can enjoy the holiday season with our families," Hancock said.
Bob McDonald of Denver's health department said the new restrictions "will be enforced against individuals if need be."
Colorado has seen more than 81,800 coronavirus cases, with 1,142 new cases reported on Thursday – a single-day record for new cases in the state, according to Johns Hopkins University.
A decision was announced on Tuesday to delay a return to in-person learning for middle and high school students at Denver Public Schools amid the spike in cases.