Fort Bliss lifting many virus restrictions that were in effect

FORT BLISS, Texas -- Military officials announced Thursday evening that they were lifting many restrictions previously instituted at the Fort Bliss Army post to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

Fort Bliss is officially dropping its curfew as well as off-post restrictions that limited trips into the city of El Paso and beyond. Travel will now be allowed up to 250 miles from the post.

Quarantines were also being dropped for most; those coming from other military installations won't have to, but those returning from deployments still will.

Fort Bliss leaders asked for prayers for the El Paso community, which they said is still struggling due to the virus.

"Last week saw the highest increase in Covid-19 to date in El Paso with over 700 new cases," said Col. Mike Oshiki of the William Beaumont Army Medical Center.

Officials emphasized that social distancing and face masks were still necessary, stressing the need for everyone to take "common sense" actions to ensure safety.