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• Editor’s note: These frequently asked questions about Gov. JB Pritzker’s new “stay-at-home” order were provided to Shaw Media Illinois.

Pritzker issued Executive Order 2020-10 on Friday, which requires all Illinoisans to stay in their homes to prevent the further spread of the COVID-19 virus. The order prohibits activities such as visiting the homes of friends and holding gatherings of any size, while all nonessential establishments will be closed, including most retail, recreation and entertainment businesses. It does not prohibit essential activities such as going to the grocery store, receiving medical care or taking pets for a walk.

When does the order take effect?

The order will take effect at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Where does the stay-at-home order apply?

The governor’s executive order includes the entire state. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you should stay home.

Is this mandatory or just guidance?

This order is mandatory. To help prevent the further spread of the COVID-19 virus in Illinois, and to protect our friends, neighbors and vulnerable populations, please stay home.

How will this order be enforced?

Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. The Illinois State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order, but adhering to the order will save lives, and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Will the Illinois National Guard be enforcing this order?

No. The Illinois National Guard will be supporting logistics, transportation and medical response efforts. The Guard will not be enforcing this order.

I work in an essential service. How will the police know I’m allowed to be outside my house?

Law enforcement officials will not stop residents who are on their way to or from work, who are out for necessities such as going to the pharmacy or getting groceries, or just taking a walk. Illinoisans should abstain from all nonessential activities.

Will grocery stores be open?

Yes, essential services still will be operational, including but not limited to grocery stores; gas stations; pharmacies; police and fire stations; hospitals, clinics and health care facilities; garbage/sanitation sites; public transportation; and public benefits (i.e., SNAP, Medicaid) hotlines.

A full list can be found in the executive order at coronavirus.illinois.gov.

How can I get medical care?

If you are feeling sick, call your doctor, a nurse hotline, any telehealth hotline set up specifically for COVID-19 (check with your insurance company) or an urgent care center. Do not go to an emergency room unless necessary. Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, health care visits should be done remotely. Contact your health care provider to see what telehealth services they provide.

What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.

If you have specific questions about your support and services, reach out to your provider or individual service coordination agency. To receive updated information on such services, sign up for the email database, or to update your contact and service information, visit www.DDD.Illinois.gov.

What if I still have to go to work?

Unless your work is an essential function (i.e., health care provider, grocery store clerk, first responder), you should stay home. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

What if I think my business should be closed but I’m still being asked to operate?

Essential businesses will remain open during the stay-at-home order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Illinoisans. Those businesses include but are not limited to pharmacies, certain government offices, day care centers that provide care for the children of essential employees and restaurants providing takeout meals. If you work for an essential business, you should continue to practice social distancing and should stay at home outside of work hours. If you believe your business is nonessential but still are being asked to show up to work, you may discuss it with your employer.

Can I order food/groceries?

Yes, grocery delivery will be available as well as meal delivery, drive-thru and takeout options.

A certain service is essential for me, but the governor didn’t include it; what do I do?

The stay-at-home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being of Illinoisans. Although some businesses such as fitness centers and salons will be closed, essential services always will be available. For a full list of businesses that still will operate during the order, visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Will public transportation and ride-sharing be available?

Public transportation and ride-sharing should be used for essential travel only. When possible, walk or drive yourself.

Will roads in Illinois be closed?

No, the roads will not be closed in Illinois. You should only travel if it is essential to your work or health.

Can I take a flight out of the state?

Planes and any other form of travel should only be used for essential purposes.

What if my home is not a safe environment?

If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and encouraged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so someone can help. You may call the domestic violence hotline at 1-877-863-6338 or contact your local law enforcement.

What about homeless people who can’t stay at home?

The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Illinoisans, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to provide funding and resources to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.

Can I visit friends and family?

For your safety, as well as the safety of those in your community, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate food supply.

What about my pet?

You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Be sure to practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.

Does the stay-at-home order mean I can’t take my kids to the park?

State parks will be closed during the stay-at-home order. Families still will be able to go outside and take a walk, run or bike ride, but they should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people. Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing transmission.

What is the difference between the stay-at-home order and social distancing?

Social distancing is an important first step in preventing the spread of a disease such as the COVID-19 virus, allowing people to go about their daily activities while taking extra health and safety precautions. The stay-at-home order requires people to remain in their homes unless they have an essential job or are doing an essential task such as going to the grocery store or walking a pet.

Can I leave home to go to religious services?

Large gatherings, such as church services, will be canceled to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Can I leave home to exercise?

Yes. Outdoor exercise such as running or taking a walk is perfectly acceptable; however, gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. While exercising outside, you still should practice social distancing by running or walking at least 6 feet away from other people.

Can I pick up meals being provided by my child’s school?

Yes. Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pickup and take-home basis. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provided by your physician.

Can I go out to do laundry?

Yes. Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses that will remain open. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provide by your physician.

Can I take my child to day care?

If you are considered an essential worker under the order, you can take your child to a day care center that is licensed on an emergency basis for the purpose of child care for essential workers. Licensed day care homes for up to 12 children will be closed but may reopen as an unlicensed day care home for up to six children.