Guidelines for Social Distancing

Guidelines from the Winchester Board of Health/Health Department as of March 16, 2020

Half of Massachusetts COVID-19 cases are in Middlesex County. We need to act now to effectively limit the spread of the virus. In Winchester we are recommending strict guidelines to be protective of our most vulnerable residents, the elderly and the medically compromised (More information on high risk individuals).

Overall, the best way to assess whether or not you should engage in an activity, in any setting, is to ask “Can I maintain a safe distance (min. 6ft) from others?”  If the answer is no, the recommendation is not to do it. 

The following recommendations apply to all residents, businesses and settings in town:

• No in-person socializing outside of the immediate household members (this includes parties for any age, playdates, sleepovers)

• When contact required with others for essential purposes (e.g. obtaining groceries, medicines and necessary supplies) attempt to maintain 6 feet or more apart from others

• Playgrounds closed until further notice

• Indoor gym activity at a shared facility is not advisable 

• When outside for recreation (walking, biking, hiking etc.) maintain 6 feet or more apart from others 

High Risk Populations: Over 60 years old and medically compromised individuals:

• Take extra precautions and try to remain at home as much as possible.  It is not recommended that children are in direct contact with grandparents and elderly as children may be carrying the virus, but not showing symptoms. (More information on high risk individuals)