New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell today said the spikes in coronavirus cases has her considering instituting restrictions that were lifted as the curve had flattened in recent weeks.
"If the city has to shut down, we will do that... making the tough sacrifices to keep our people safe," Cantrell insisted during a news conference. "We are seeing cause for concern... We have been there before and we can go there again."
She did say that if violations are limited to "one or two bad actors" she will shut down those businesses, not punish everyone. However, if it remains more widespread she will have to bring back more restrictions.
The mayor said the increase in COVID-19 spread is the result of people not wearing masks, not staying six feet apart and going to large gatherings.
"We have seen this uptick in cases contributed to community spread," Cantrell said.
She stressed the wearing a mask in public in New Orleans is not optional.
"It is mandatory in the city of New Orleans... Face Coverings."
Cantrell angrily scolded people who have not complied.
"We are not getting the response from the community and our visitors that we need at this time."
She said now is the time to address this spike in COVID activity.
"We have to double down!"
The mayor says an enforcement group is going to step up efforts to find and stop those in violation.
"This group, this task force will be going the extra mile... to ensure that we are safe and protected," Cantrell explained. "It is critical to communicate the impact that large gatherings have on the public."
She called on people to show compassion for fellow citizens.
"We have to care!"
City Health Director, Dr. Jennifer Avegno says there is clear evidence that the higher case counts are not just the result of increased testing.
"We are beginning to see hospitalizations on the rise as well," Avegno explained. "It is translating into more hospitalizations."
The doctor says one of things that troubles her the most is that children, teens and young adults are increasingly catching and getting sick from coronavirus.
"Some of the most alarming trends are in the breakdowns of date demographically," the health director said. "It coincides with further easing of restrictions."
Avegno also stressed that claims that the increased spread is not the result of demonstrations in recent weeks.
"We have not identified any clusters... related to protests... we are not seeing clusters."
She says that is a testament to wearing masks, noting that they have seen widespread compliance with mask wearing at protests.
Avegno stressed that there is time to turn things back around.
"It is not too late... what you do today will determine our future... who lives and who dies."
