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Coronavirus Situation Overview

California Emergency Declaration & Travel Impacts

On March 4, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in California, joining Washington, Florida and several local jurisdictions across the United States.

Declaring a state of emergency helps prepare for a rapid response to a potential coronavirus case and opens additional lines of communication between government agencies. An emergency declaration also makes it easier to secure emergency state and federal funding and other resources.

California’s emergency declaration speaks to the state’s commitment to preparedness and aggressive response to reports of new cases in the state. Travelers should follow public health authorities’ recommendations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides coronavirus travel information at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html

There are no travel implications tied to the declaration, and no travel restrictions imposed within California or anywhere in the United States. Public health officials continue to urge travelers to practice typical precautions, including frequently washing hands, avoiding touching faces and shaking hands, and maintaining safe distances from strangers.

Media Contact:
Ryan Becker, Vice President of Communications
(916) 505-2842
rbecker@visitcalifornia.com

March 5, 2020

Statement on California’s coronavirus emergency declaration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Visit California President & CEO Caroline Beteta today issued the following statement on the latest developments around coronavirus and its impacts on California travel:

“The emergency declaration in California indicates our Governor’s proactive and quick response and commitment to preparedness. Fortunately, there are no further travel implications, and visitors should feel safe and welcome to travel the state freely, maintaining the same standard precautions they would at home.”

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