Idaho governor orders return to some COVID-19 restrictions

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Gov. Brad Little has ordered a return to some restrictions to slow the spread of the coronavirus as intertwined health care systems across the state show early signs of buckling.

The Republican governor on Monday said indoor gatherings will be limited to 50 people or less as state officials continue reporting surging infections, with 650 more on Sunday for a total approaching 60,000, along with 573 deaths.

Little didn't order a statewide mask mandate.

The state’s positivity test rate is fourth-worst in the nation, according to The COVID Tracking Project.

St. Luke’s, with hospitals in southwestern and central Idaho, is reporting that 20% of hospitalized patients have COVID-19.