Wyoming to ease some coronavirus restrictions on Friday

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming will ease some of its coronavirus restrictions on Friday, with barbershops, gyms, nail salons and child care centers among the businesses that will be allowed limited re-openings, Gov. Mark Gordon said.

The changes announced Tuesday will replace health orders that are set to expire Thursday. They are the first steps in the Republican governor’s plan to restart the state economy.

In a news conference, Gordon described the measures as a “methodical, measured approach moving forward.”

“If we get this wrong, it will be more devastating to Wyoming and we will lose the ground we’ve gained,” he said.

Gordon also said Wednesday that Wyoming residents would be allowed to camp at state parks starting May 15.

State Health Officer Alexia Harrist said there will be restrictions on those businesses that are reopening, with the aim of allowing some economic activity while protecting public health.

“I am hopeful now that we are indeed on a forward path,” Harrist said.

People at barbershops, nail salons, tattoo parlors and most other personal-services shops will be required to wear facemasks, and the shops will be allowed to operate by appointment only. No more than nine people can be in one area at a time and customers must also be screened for coronavirus symptoms.

Gyms must restrict the number of people in the facility at one time, keep locker rooms closed, and one-on-one fitness classes are prohibited.

Restaurants will be able to let five people inside at a time to pick up food. In-person dining is still prohibited.

Gatherings will be limited to no more than 10 people.

Day cares will be able to accept all children, not just those whose parents are essential workers.

Wyoming has 396 confirmed coronavirus cases and virus-related deaths, according to state officials.

For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older people and those with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.