The California Department of Public Health has called for the immediate closure of all bars, nightclubs, pubs, wineries and breweries due to the the coronavirus pandemic, according to a news release from the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department.
The CDPH also called for all restaurants and food facilities offering on-site dining to transition to only offering delivery and take-out service.
The CDPH is asking for the cancellation of all St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and events.
According to the release, this is being done “to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in communities. Bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and other food facilities are locations where people from many parts of the community gather, increasing the chances of transmitting the virus that causes coronavirus disease. While many bars, nightclubs and pubs traditionally hold events for St. Patrick’s Day, these are particularly dangerous at this point in the coronavirus pandemic, as they could result in widespread transmission of the disease in Santa Barbara County.”
According to the release, grocery stores, markets and Foodbank distribution sites are not being asked to close, as they provide critical services. They did encourage social distancing guidelines be enforced as these facilities.
This is a breaking news story, please check back for updates.
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