CHICAGO — Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued a “shelter in place” lockdown for the state of Illinois beginning at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, March 21 and lasting through Tuesday, April 7.
“As this pandemic has progressed, we’ve had to make some difficult decisions,” Pritzker said.
With the lockdown, grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies will still remain open for the public. And citizens can still take strolls outside while practicing social distancing.
The governor said there is no need to rush to the grocery stores to stock up on food.
“Many, many people will still go to work,” Pritzker said.
All roadways will also remain open, including highways and tollways as well.
“You can still pick up dinner from your local restaurant,” the governor said.
All non-essential businesses must stop operation or work from home if possible. Day care options will be available for those working for essential operations.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike announced another coronavirus fatality, a woman from Cook County in her 70s, as the state’s death toll rose to five.
There are now 585 positive cases across the state, spanning 25 counties.
