25 Cases Of Coronavirus In Contra Costa County

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — The number of confirmed new coronavirus cases, or COVID-19, in Contra Costa County grew by eight on Friday, according to Contra Costa Health Services. The number of county residents with coronavirus has now reached 25, with one additional person being treated here from another jurisdiction.

Within the county, several school districts have closed for the next three weeks including Martinez Unified, Mt. Diablo Unified, and West Contra Costa. Other districts are expected to follow.

The county library system also announced on Friday that all programs have been canceled through the end of the month.

The swift rise in confirmed cases was predicted by public health officials who on Tuesday recommended that groups cancel large gatherings where 50 or more people are within arm's length of each other, including concerts, sporting events, celebrations, conventions, religious services and other church gatherings.

Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus updates, developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

On Wednesday, the World Health Organization announced that the new coronavirus had become a "pandemic." The pandemic declaration refers to the scope of the new coronavirus — but not its severity — and means it has become a "worldwide spread of a new disease."

By mid-afternoon on Friday, the number of U.S. cases had reached 1,268, according to Johns Hopkins University. President Trump declared a national emergency, freeing up $50 billion in spending to help states deal with coronavirus responses.

In adopting an emergency proclamation Tuesday, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Chair Candace Andersen, said: "The new coronavirus or COVID-19 presents our community with a challenge. While I urge you to be prepared, it is certainly not a time to panic. Following our health officials' guidelines will help prevent the spread of disease. The County and Contra Costa Health Services will continue to offer guidance and resources. Meanwhile, there is much each and everyone one of us can do to keep our families and communities well. It will take all of us working together."

— Patch editors Bea Karnes and Maggie Fusek contributed to this story

Related:

• Martinez Unified School District Closed For 3 Weeks: Coronavirus
• Coronavirus: Mt. Diablo Unified Cancels School
• School Canceled In Pinole, Hercules For 3 Weeks
• School Canceled In El Cerrito For 3 Weeks
• Coronavirus School Closures: Orinda Emergency Board Meeting Friday