An illustration of the new coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19. Image courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.

Most large gatherings in Massachusetts will have to be rethought following a ban on gatherings of more than 250 people announced by Gov. Charlie Baker Friday afternoon.

The move is an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus that’s been sweeping the globe.

The order includes, but is not limited, to the following events: community, civic, public, leisure, faith-based events, sporting events with spectators, concerts, conventions, fundraisers, parades, fairs and festivals.

The order does not apply to normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, libraries, shopping centers, polling locations, grocery or retail stores or other spaces where 250 or more people may be passing through. The order does not apply to offices, factories or restaurants, although the Baker administration is urging the latter to, when possible, encourage social distancing – a 6-foot distance between people.

“Everyone has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus, and by limiting large gatherings, we can further mitigate the spread of the disease,” Baker said in a statement. “It is important to take these steps now to further protect the residents of the commonwealth, and we will continue to encourage residents to maintain social distancing, and practice healthy personal hygiene to stop the spread of the virus.”

Earlier today, the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education also issued updated guidance to schools that urged them to cancel events with over 250 students gathered and recommended frequent cleaning, among other measures.