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Local seniors weigh in on Gov. Newsom's home isolation recommendation

Posted at 7:42 PM, Mar 15, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-15 22:45:29-04

With more coronavirus cases emerging in California and on the Central Coast, Governor Gavin Newsom announced new advisories, one of which affects all people over 65.

On Sunday, Gov. Newsom held a press conference strongly recommending that all people over the age of 65 isolate at home to reduce exposure to coronavirus.

According to the CDC, people over the age of 60 and people with underlying health conditions are most at risk of contracting COVID-19.

Local seniors we spoke with said they see the logic behind the unprecedented decision.

"If it is the case that people over 65 are more likely to contract the disease and thereby be carriers then telling them they have to stay home is probably a good idea on the part of the governor," said Ty Griffin, a San Luis Obispo citizen.

The recommendation for self-isolation takes place immediately.

The coronavirus has many concerned, including 84-year-old Robert Barrios Sr., but said he can not imagine being confined to his home.

"This does worry me, but I'd hate to be confined to my house. To be confined to my house just to keep me from getting sick, I can't see it," Barrios said.

By ordering home isolation for those most asrisk, Gov. Newsom hopes this helps curtail the growing number of cases.

Newsom also announced that visitation rights at nursing homes within the state are now prohibited, except in end-of-life circumstances.