Mass gatherings now banned in Santa Clara, WWDC under threat of cancellation

AppleInsider:

An order issuing “new, stronger guidance” about coronavirus bans any gathering of 1,000 or more people, effective March 9, for at least three weeks. The ban comes just a few hours after the county experienced its first death from the virus, and 43 confirmed cases in the area.

This is a critical moment in the growing outbreak of COVID-19 in Santa Clara County. The strong measures we are taking today are designed to slow the spread of disease,” said Dr. Sara Cody, Santa Clara County Health Officer. “Today’s order and new recommendations will reduce the number of people who develop severe illness and will help prevent our healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed. This is critically important for anyone with healthcare needs, not just those most vulnerable to serious illness from COVID-19.”

WWDC is typically scheduled for the beginning of June. While technically not banned yet, a three-week delay is not a promising sign for the live event to happen on-schedule.

Last week, the county recommended this step. Things have gotten so much worse so fast, they feel the need now to actually ban the activities. While WWDC isn’t technically affected by this three-week ban, it may have a chilling effect on those wanting to attend.