Coronavirus in Tennessee: Franklin, Brentwood declare a state of emergency

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a pandemic. Reported illnesses range from very mild to severe, including death. Agencies anticipate widespread transmission will occur in the U.S. in coming months and recommend social distancing among other measures to slow the spread. Call your doctor and stay home if you are sick. Get more information at CDC.gov/coronavirus or contact the Tennessee Department of Health coronavirus information line at 877-857-2945 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily.

Friday night, the city of Franklin declared a state of emergency because of the coronavirus.

Williamson County reported 35 cases of the virus as of Friday and the state announced its first death, a 73-year-old man in Davidson County.

"With this declaration effective tonight at midnight, the city is following in the footsteps of Governor Lee who declared a state of emergency for Tennessee," spokesperson Milissa Reierson said. "This is a difficult but necessary decision to indefinitely close dining service inside restaurants and bars in Franklin. Gyms and fitness centers in the city limits will be closed as well. Salons and spas are urged to limit operations to comply with CDC guidelines. Church services are advised to be held virtually if possible."

Mayor Ken Moore also advised those returning from a vacation during spring break to self-isolate and use physical distancing for 14 days, especially those who were in large crowds or flying.

“While this is a difficult and uncertain time, the only way to stop the spread and save lives is to take strong action now," Moore said. "Williamson County currently has the second highest number of cases in the state of Tennessee. The safety and health of our community are the city’s top priority and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding during this time."

Brentwood declares state of emergency

Brentwood also declared a state of emergency on Friday evening as of March 21 at 6 p.m.

This will include closing dining service and bars, plus gyms and fitness centers in the city limits.

"While this limits people from eating inside restaurants, there are a variety of ways residents can continue to support Brentwood restaurant businesses and employees," Mayor Rhea Little said. "Please consider buying a gift card for dining later in the year, order take out, or even drop off a meal to a neighbor."

Little also requests those returning from a vacation to self-isolate and use physical distancing for 14 days, especially those who were in large crowds or flying.

"As we strive to protect the most vulnerable in this fight against COVID-19, I encourage everyone to love and respect their neighbor by doing what is asked of us by medical experts and those trying to protect us individually and as a society," Little said.