Los Angeles mayor begs parents: 'Keep your children away from their friends.'

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti pleaded with parents this week to "keep your children away from their friends," a desperate entreaty made as coronavirus cases continue to rise in spite of months of strict mitigation measures there. 

California in recent weeks has seen steadily rising coronavirus infections, with Los Angeles County also posting steady case increases. That comes even after two months of notable pandemic control measures in Los Angeles, such as Garcetti's mandatory outdoor face mask mandate, which he unilaterally imposed in mid-May.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Garcetti showed obvious concern over the rising case counts, begging city residents to obey his orders regarding social distancing and large gatherings. 

Claiming there were "too many social gatherings" and "way too many pool parties," Garcetti warned the city: "You should assume that everyone around you is infected.”

"Parents, I need your help,” he said. "I need you to keep your children away from their friends.”

The mayor warned at the press conference that the city may face another lockdown if case numbers continue to get worse. 

"All options remain on the table. We will do whatever we need to," he said.