The Beloit City Council extends its local COVID-19 public health order into November.

City Manager Lori Curtis-Luther presented an update on the local coronavirus situation, which continues to worsen across Rock County.

Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Vijaya Somaraju from Beloit Health System joined the city manager in emphasizing the effectiveness of mask wearing and social distancing in limiting the spread of COVID-19.

Dr. Somaraju refuted some misinformation shared by community members during the public comment portion of the meeting to reinforce the need for the city’s health order.

Beloit’s resolution requires face coverings and physical distancing while strongly discouraging mass gatherings.

The latest extension lasts through November 17.