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in order to slow the spread of Cove in 19 we have been taking significant steps, first focusing on containment strategies where we pinpoint the exposure and employ quarantine of isolation in places such as nursing homes, group homes and the justice system. However, with the start of community transmission, we have had to protect the most vulnerable from exposure to this virus. So in March 9th, Sacramento County began undertaking strong mitigation measures intended to reduce the risk of death and illness among this most vulnerable population. These measures were intended to do two things. Decreased exposure of seniors and the chronically ill to the virus, while keeping less vulnerable populations from exposing the high risk population. This evolution to mitigation has also allowed our health care system in Sacramento County. To plan Resource is to take care of severely ill patients. Our March 12th state and federal health agencies issued guidance that supported our efforts on mitigation. And finally, on March 17th the governor's office provided details that strengthen these efforts even further by prohibition of all gatherings, including dining in restaurants. That same afternoon, the county announced his support of these state directives and issued strong directives of our own, which urged those in Sacramento region to stay home in pursuit of the ultimate goal. Protecting those most at risk. In these past 11 days, however, the United States has learned a lot about this virus, but it's continued to spread and Sacramento County necessitates the additional step of issuing an order. Therefore, as of tonight, March 1920 20 at 11 59 PM, or one minute before midnight, the Sacramento County health officer, Dr Libya Grocery, is directing all individuals living in the county to stay at their place of residence residents except for essential activities, which all outlined shortly. The legal order is based on the same directives of social distancing issued this week to slow the transmission of the disease, but it provides more detail and enforcement ability.

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In a legal order, Sacramento County Public Health is directing everyone living in the county to stay at their home except for essential activities in order to slow the spread of the coronavirus outbreak. The order, which goes into effect at midnight, is based on the same social distancing directives issued earlier this week. The order lasts through at least midnight on April 7. Residents can leave their homes for essential activities, including medical appointments, getting groceries, taking a walk (as long as people are practicing social distancing) and taking care of family. "This order from the Public Health Officer Dr. Kasirye is a very clear message about this virus," said Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert. "It is everyone's moral responsibility to act today, not tomorrow or next week." | MORE | Click here to read the Sacramento County orderSacramento County Sheriff Scott Jones said that it is not his desire to take anyone to jail for violating the order. "I want to assure everyone that law enforcement's priorities have not changed. They always have been, and will remain, the protections of people," Jones said. As of Thursday, there have been 45 confirmed COVID-19 cases, resulting in three deaths, according to Sacramento County Public Health Director Dr. Peter Beilenson.At the news conference, Ronald Fong, with the California Grocers Association, said he wanted to reassure the public there is not a need to hoard. "We understand that consumers are concerned and they have anxiety as to what will happen next. But there really is no need to overbuy or stockpile food supplies," he said. "We want to assure you that we will continue to serve our communities, and you will be able to purchase your necessities."