Los Angeles Launches New 'Safer at Home' Order Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

Los Angeles County has ordered that all non-essential retail businesses shut down amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The new rule orders indoor malls, shopping centers, and playgrounds to shut down and no gatherings of more than 10 people will be allowed in enclosed spaces.

The new “Safer at Home” Emergency Order was announced by Mayor Eric Garcetti during a press conference on Thursday (March 19). The order goes into effect after midnight and will last until March 31.

Los Angeles residents are ordered to stay inside their homes unless they have to leave to take care of essential needs, like grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions.

“Los Angeles, this our moment to lead with love and protect those lives that mean everything to us,” Garcetti said (via THR). “This is not a request, this is an order.”

There are currently 230 cases in Los Angeles and 2 deaths.

UPDATE: California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has now issued a statewide “stay at home” order as well.