The novel coronavirus has been the cause of death for at least 18 people in Long Beach so far, most of them from skilled nursing facilities or senior homes. Despite this, Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia tells Inside the Issues residents are doing their part to follow stay-at-home orders. While Long Beach has its own health department independent of Los Angeles, they are in constant communication with Los Angeles County and the City of Pasadena to align rules around the pandemic.

Garcia said it’s a tragedy that friends and families are losing loved ones.

 

 

"We know that a lot of young people are not symptomatic and it's important for young people to stay healthy and to get out and to support the rest of the community as well.”

 

 

He said the biggest challenge they are facing is similar to many cities all over the country - making sure local hospitals have the capacity and resources needed to help treat a surge in patients.

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