Governor Carney Formally Extends State of Emergency

Governor John Carney on Thursday formally extended the State of Emergency declaration another 30 days to confront community spread of COVID-19, and issued the following statement:

“It’s clear that COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations spiked after Thanksgiving gatherings. Our hospitals can’t afford another spike this Christmas. I know it’s tough, but please consider adjusting your holiday plans. Wear a mask whenever you’re around friends or family outside your household. These are temporary sacrifices until we have enough vaccines to crush COVID-19. Stay vigilant.”

Governor Carney’s State of Emergency declaration carries the full force and effect of law. Delawareans and visitors also must follow local restrictions in place to limit community spread of COVID-19.

Anyone with a question about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Delawareans over the age of 18 are encouraged to download COVID Alert DE, Delaware’s free COVID exposure notification app. Download on the AppStore or Google Play.

Report a business for COVID-19 non-compliance using this form.

The Division of Public Health will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.