SALEM, Ore. – For the next four weeks, all large gatherings over 250 people are canceled statewide, Gov. Kate Brown announced Wednesday night.

The decision comes after 21 people have tested positive for novel coronavirus, the most recent two cases involving residents at a veterans home in Lebanon.

A gathering is defined as any event in a space in which appropriate social distancing of a minimum of three feet cannot be maintained.

Non-essential school-related gatherings and group activities should also be canceled. Workers are also recommended to maintain distance between each other and limit in-person meetings and travel.

Brown also reminded the public of strict limitations at long-term care and assisted living facilities

“Nobody is immune to this virus, it can touch everyone," said Brown. “We can't let fear and anxiety stigmatize people. We are seeing cases across multiple counties and age groups, and in people exposed through different circumstances. It's time for us all to do what we can to slow its spread and take care of one another."

The measures being put in place follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control, Oregon public health experts, epidemiologists and health professionals.

Brown will be holding a press conference at 9 a.m. Thursday in which she will discuss these rules.