BOISE, Idaho — Idaho joins the 17 states who have issued stay-at-home because of the coronavirus. The order is in place for the next 21 days.

Gov. Little also signed an extreme emergency declaration, which allows the state to more effectively increase health care capacity, take steps to reduce and slow coronavirus spread and take steps to improve the condition of Idahoans whose job and incomes are being affected by the pandemic. You can view the emergency declaration in it's entirety here.

“From the get-go, our focus has been to slow the spread of coronavirus to protect our most vulnerable citizens and preserve capacity in our healthcare system,” Governor Little said. “And from the beginning, I stated my commitment to making decisions about our response to coronavirus based on science. With confirmed community transmission of coronavirus now occurring in Idaho’s most populated areas, we need to take strong measures to ensure our healthcare facilities are not overburdened. I am following the guidance of our public health experts and issuing a statewide stay-home order effective immediately.”

The stay-at-home order is not a full lockdown, but residents are required to stay home except for essential activities, such as grocery shopping, going to the pharmacy, receiving medical care or walking your dog.

If you work in an essential industry, like healthcare, food service, grocery stores or law enforcement, you will be able to travel to your job. Essential businesses include grocery stores, farms, gas stations, laundromats, newspaper, television and media services and restaurants, but only drive-thru, delivery and carryout. Essential activities include grocery shopping, picking up medical supplies and outdoor activities.

Non-essential businesses and services will close their physical locations. This includes bars, nightclubs, gyms, recreational facilities, entertainment venues, convention centers and hair and nail salons. People must limit public transit unless to provide or obtain essential services. People must limit all discretionary travel.

People must limit all non-essential gatherings of any number of individuals outside the household. When you go for a walk, run, bike ride, or other outdoor recreation near your home, stay 6-feet away from individuals who are not part of your household.

“We will get through this together as long as we all play an active part in fighting the spread of coronavirus. I am proud of Idaho and the way we support and love our neighbors. Let’s keep it up,” Governor Little said.

For the latest coronavirus coverage, click here. If you know of a restaurant that is staying open during the crisis, click here and fill out the form. Now more than ever, we need to be open to new ways of thinking, gathering, and supporting each other.