LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Arkansas’ largest city on Thursday temporarily prohibited in-person service at restaurants and bars as the number of coronavirus cases in the state continued to rise.
Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott announced the closure will take effect at 8 a.m. on Friday and said the move was approved by state officials.
Scott announced the move shortly after state health officials said the number of coronavirus cases in Arkansas had risen to 46.
“For now this is our new normal,” Scott said.
For most people, the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with preexisting health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild cases recover in about two weeks, while others could take three to six weeks to get well.
Scott said the establishments will be allowed to provide take-out, curbside and home delivery services. He said the city will temporarily allow the restaurant and bar facilities to be used for other purposes such as specialty grocery stores, as long as the maximum occupancy doesn’t exceed 10 people.
