Local health officials are urging people not to gather in large groups during the Father’s Day weekend as the numbers of COVID-19 could have risen in Oregon over the last week to ten days. State epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said at a press conference that the surge in Oregon’s COVID-19 cases is coming from numerous sources, including large outbreaks in Union and Lincoln counties, workplace and congregate care outbreaks, and community spread that remains a concern. But he added social gatherings as Oregon loosens restrictions is also a factor, and people should take precautions to protect themselves and others. Sidelinger added that there is good evidence that places where wearing a face covering or mask is the norm see lowered COVID-19 rates.