WHEREAS, on March 6, 2020, Governor Eric J. Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-02, which declared that a public health emergency exists throughout the State of Indiana as a result of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19);

WHEREAS, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic and, on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared a national emergency with respect to this dangerous virus;

WHEREAS, on March 23, 2020, Governor Eric J. Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-08, which directed the residents of Indiana to stay at home unless leaving for essential activities;

WHEREAS, COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can be spread from person to person. COVID-19 is thought to be spread mainly between people who are in close contact and prolonged contact with one another (about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced by an infected individual. COVID-19 may also be spread by touching a surface object that has virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes. COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community;

WHEREAS, congregate housing or facilities for individuals who are suspected of having or have tested positive for COVID-19 is not reasonable due to the risk of further spread of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends local partners plan where individuals may be isolated while they safely recover.

Under the authority granted to the Indiana State Department of Health in IC 16-19-3-9 to "do what is reasonable and necessary for the prevention and suppression of disease", I, Kristina Box, MD, FACOG, State Health Commissioner, do hereby order that:

SO ORDERED.

Kristina M. Box, MD, FACOG

State Health Commissioner

Indiana State Department of Health