A large majority of counties in California state are now required to issue curfews to curb the alarming spread of the novel coronavirus infection.
The state government on Thursday has ordered counties placed in the purple tier of California’s reopening plan to implement a “Limited Stay-At-Home order.” The mandatory curfew forbids nonessential work and gathering between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
During the lockdown, people can go out of their homes to run necessary errands, including a trip to the grocery store or a local pharmacy. They can also order take out from restaurants and engage in physical activities, such as walking their dog.
The curfew aims to slow the spread of COVID-19 and prevent an outbreak that could lead to a more severe lockdown. The order will take effect in 41 counties starting Saturday and remain until December 21.
In the Bay Area, All counties except Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo were not placed in the purple tier, SFGate reported.
California health officials have reported an alarming number of new coronavirus cases in recent days. In the past ten days, the state’s cases have doubled. The numbers are still growing.
Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said the state saw a surge in new infection of 51.3% in a one-week period from November 1 to 7. At least 12% of new coronavirus cases also require hospitalization.
As of Monday, 41 of the state’s 58 counties were placed in the purple tier, including Shasta, Trinity, Kern, San Bernandino, Riverside, and Imperial counties, California All reported.
