Local government officials in San Francisco and six surrounding counties are ordering residents to stay at home except for essential needs in an effort to combat the spread of the coronavirus.
According to the order issued Monday, residents may only leave their houses for essentials until April 7. Those essential needs include medical attention, groceries, services like gas stations, banks, as well as government services. Restaurants are remaining open, but will only provide takeout or delivery orders. Residents are allowed to go outside, but are being asked to practice social distancing.
Violation of this order will be considered a misdemeanor by law enforcement, according to NBC.
On Twitter, San Francisco Mayor London Breed said, "The most important thing you can do is remain home as much as possible. There is no need to rush out for food or supplies, as these stores will remain open. We'll meet this challenge and we'll get through it together."
The order is anticipated to impact close to 6.7 million people.
