Washington, D.C., follows Maryland, Virginia in issuing stay at home orders

The mayor Washington, D.C., and the governors of Maryland and Virginia on Monday each issued stay-at-home orders, as the coronavirus continues to spread and officials try to eliminate more outbreaks and hotspots. 

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser issued the order after Maryland and Virginia.

“Our message remains the same: stay home,” Bowser said in a press release. “Staying at home is the best way to ... protect yourself, your family, and our entire community from COVID-19. Many people want to know how they can help right now, and for most people this is how – by staying home.”

The order in the nation's capitol goes into effect on Wednesday and remain in effect through April 24.

Virginia Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam told residents: "Please stay home as much as possible. This is a time of sacrifice. We need everyone to take this seriously and act responsibly."

Northam wants residents to limit their outdoor excursions to such essential activities as shopping or seeking medical attention. The order extends through June 10. 

Earlier in the day, Maryland Republican Gov. Larry Hogan issued a similar order, telling residents that they should remain indoors unless their trips are essential. 

Hogan’s order goes into effect at 8 p.m. Monday.

More than five dozen residents in a Mount Airy, Maryland, nursing home recently tested positive for the virus. 

Health officials say 11 of them have been hospitalized and that one male resident died Saturday night.  

Northam's order also calls for all Virginia colleges to stop in-person classes and restricts beach activities and short-term stays at private campgrounds.