Williamson County Bans Gatherings of 50 People or More

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell has issued an order banning community gatherings of 50 people or more anywhere in Williamson County for the next eight weeks in order to slow the transmission of COVID-19.

The order follows guidance issued last night by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The COVID-19 virus is contagious and spreads through person-to-person contact, especially in group settings, and the CDC recommends a community-wide approach using “social distancing” to reduce illness and death.

The ban on public or private gatherings takes effect 6 p.m., March 16, and will continue until Monday, May 11, 2020, unless otherwise extended or terminated by the Williamson County Judge or by action of the Williamson County Commissioners Court.

“Williamson County is dedicated to keeping all of our people safe and healthy. Extraordinary measures had to be taken in order to limit the possible spread of the Coronavirus in Williamson County, potentially overwhelming our healthcare system,” said County Judge Bill Gravell. 

“In Williamson County, we are dedicated to being prepared, not scared.”

The order does not apply to the day-to-day operations of organizations such as daycare facilities, schools, institutes of higher learning, private sector businesses, and public sector business.

Williamson County Health Authority Dr. Lori Palazzo offered the following advice to county residents: 

  • Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • When you can’t wash your hands with soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily.
  • Practice social distancing: keep a space of 6 feet between you and others; consider tele- or remote options for gatherings, whenever feasible.

Individuals who are at the highest risk from COVID-19, including elderly people or those with underlying health conditions, are told to avoid community gatherings or events that will likely have 10 or more people.