Pasadena, Long Beach to declare public health emergencies over coronavirus

LOS ANGELES - The cities of Pasadena and Long Beach are expected to declare a public health emergency out of precaution over coronavirus, it was announced Wednesday.

Officials with the cities made the announcement during a press conference in which Los Angeles County officials declared a local state of emergency in response to six new confirmed cases within the county, bringing the overall total to seven.

While there have been no confirmed cases within Long Beach or Pasadena, city officials say they are making every effort to protect public health and safety.

By declaring a state of emergency, cities will receive funds from the state and federal level. The decision to declare a state of emergency was not to create panic, but rather to allow local health agencies more tools and access to respond to this virus.

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Health officials are urging residents to stay home if they're sick and to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. They also recommend using verbal communication instead of handshakes to prevent spreading germs.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend people who are well to wear facemasks.