There are 71 new cases of the Coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 320 according to the Mississippi Health Department. As MPB's Desare Frazier reports, the governor says he isn't shutting down the state, but urging people to comply with his executive order.
Governor Tate Reeves announced he's issuing an executive order to advise people to follow the state health officer's guidelines. The order includes no gatherings of more than 10 people and no dining-in at restaurants or bars.
"It will direct Mississippians not to visit hospitals, nursing homes, or long term care facilities, again working to protect the most vulnerable population," said Reeves.
At a news conference yesterday, Reeves said there are cases of people not practicing social distancing who have been infected with the Coronavirus. State Health Officer, Dr. Thomas Dobbs talked about the issue.
"If you're piled-up outside of a retail store trying to get supplies, that's not social distancing. Please do everything you can to stay out of congregated groups. We have reports of people still congregating in mass around weddings, around funerals and still going to church," said Dobbs.
Some officials are criticizing the governor saying he isn't doing enough to slow down the spread of the virus and should order people to stay at home. Reeves says every option is on the table but he hasn't been advised to order a shutdown.
"What the case is in the State of New York and the current situation in the State of Mississippi are very different. That is true, so each leader has to make decisions based upon the best information that they have at the time available and the best information that I have right now would not call for a state lockdown," said Reeves.
Reeves say he'll continue to follow President Trump's 15-day slow the virus plan which ends next Monday and see what the data reveals.