GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM signed an emergency “stay-at-home” order commanding Californians to go out only for food, medicine and medical treatment (Flickr/Amehdize).

A “stay-at-home” order was issued this evening (Thursday) by Gov. Gavin Newsom, requiring that all of California’s 40 million residents remain in their housing in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

People should restrict any movement to essential tasks such as getting food and medicine, and seeking medical treatment. Non-essential businesses are required to close.

“This is a moment we need to make tough decisions,” he said. “We need to recognize reality.”

While the emergency order urges people to remain in their homes, it’s not as severe as it may first sound. “You can still take your kids outside, practicing common sense and social distancing. You can still walk your dog,” he said. “If we are to be criticized at this moment, let us be criticized for taking this moment seriously.”

A principal reason for his order is statistic that infection rates are doubling every four days in parts of California and that 56 percent of the state’s people could contract the virus over the next eight weeks.

The governor also mobilized 200 soldiers of the California National Guard to help with food distribution.