President Donald Trump on Monday released a series of coronavirus guidelines to slow the spread that calls for a lockdown of America, including the closing of restaurants and schools.
"Each and every one of us has a critical role to play in stopping the spread," the president said from the White House briefing room.
The two-page list, called '15 Days to Slow the Spread,' advises avoiding 'eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts - use drive through, pickup, and delivery options.
It also calls on governors that have states with 'evidence of community transmission' to close schools in the affected areas.' And it asks those states to address childcare issues as well as nutritional needs of children who use schools for their meals.
"We would much rather be ahead of the curve than behind it and that's where we are," Trump said. "Therefore, my administration is recommending that all Americans including the young and healthy work to engage in schooling from home when possible, avoid a gathering in groups of more than ten people, avoid discretionary travel and avoid eating and drinking in bars, restaurants, and public food courts."
He urged Americans to work together to fight the spread of the disease. And noted the country would celebrate together when the virus was defeated.
"If everyone makes this change are these critical changes and sacrifices now, we will rally together as one nation and we will defeat the virus and we are going to have a big celebration altogether. We can turn the corner and turn it quickly, a lot of progress has been made," he said.
The recommendations also state that if you "are an older person, stay home and away from other people."
And it advises that "even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others."
The guidelines also suggest avoiding social gatherings of more than 10 people, avoiding "discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits," and not to visit nursing homes.
Additionally, there are practical suggestions including following the directions of authorities, stay home if feel sick, staying home if you have the virus, and practicing good hygiene.
The guidelines come as New York, New Jersey and Connecticut announce their states are shutting down at 8 p.m. and several states have announced extended school closures.