US Coronavirus Death Cases Rapid Increase Will Finally Result To State Implementing Harsher Measures

Since the WHO declared the coronavirus a pandemic, the United States has been implementing measures to slow its spread in the country. Schools have been closed and students encouraged to learn remotely while several companies gave their employees the option to work from home.

But President Donald Trump and other officials have given “mixed and sometimes confusing messages about the dangers ahead,” The Washington Post reported. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advised Americans to either cancel or postpone gatherings of 50 or more people for the next eight weeks, “some Republican lawmakers still shrugged off the urgent warnings.”

“We’re doing great,” President Trump said. “It will all pass.”

Rep. Devin Nunes encouraged Americans to out drinking and dining. This is contradictory to the CDC’s recommendation of social distancing to prevent the coronavirus’ spread.

“It’s a great time to go out and go to a local restaurant, likely you can get in easy,” Nunes said. “Let’s not hurt the working people in this country. . . go to your local pub.”

However, confirmed cases of the coronavirus surged by nearly a third in just 24 hours. By Sunday, there were 2,900 confirmed cases in the U.S. as announced by Vice President Pence. This prompted some states to implement harsher measures to keep the virus’ spread in check.

Merely hours after Nune’s recommended drinking and dining, California Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered the closure of all clubs, bars, and wineries. Restaurants were also advised to cut their occupancy in half, a move aimed at minimizing contact among customers. California residents 65 years old and above, as well as those with chronic conditions, were also advised to self-quarantine at home to prevent them from contracting the disease.

Both Ohio and Illinois also imposed stricter measures to combat the spread of the virus. Bars and restaurants were ordered closed in both states. In Illinois’ case, the closures will last until the end of the month while it is indefinite in Ohio.

“How long this order will be in effect we don’t frankly know,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said. “It will be in effect as long as it needs to. . . . Delay means more people will die.”

Massachusetts went even further than CDC’s recommendation of banning events with 50 or more people. The state now bans gathering with 25 or more people, a move that will affect a number of public and community events such as theaters, fitness clubs, and sports. Restaurants can only sell food for takeout or delivery.

Washington, the worst-hit state, also implemented harsher measures. Nightclubs were closed, restaurants can only offer takeout or delivery while gatherings of 50 or more people are banned.