Boston Coronavirus Cases Hit 45: 'Social Distancing Is A Must'

BOSTON — There are 45 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Boston, Mayor Marty Walsh said while making another plea for residents to practice social distancing.

"Social distancing is a must," Walsh told reporters Wednesday afternoon.

Walsh also attempted to put to rest rumors of an impending shelter-in-place order, saying there are no plans for such a measure — though he acknowledged conversations could change as the situation changes.

"Tomorrow if I'm standing here and if the curve looks different we might have a very different conversation," Walsh said.

Walsh pointed to New York City as a case where things progressed quickly. He continued to stress keeping people apart — including avoiding public transportation if possible — is key to avoiding a similar COVID-19 spike.

"The impact in just 10 days has been dramatic, and this is potentially going to go on a lot longer than this," he said. "I would love to say by, you know, April 15 we'll be in a lot better place, but I can't say that. We just don't know."

Walsh also said:

• Walsh also said the city will not be ticketing and towing vehicles for street cleaning.
• Boston Public Schools students who don't have home computers will have access to 20,000 Chromebook laptops, Walsh said.
• Walsh said there are no plans to close homeless shelters, but plans are in place for people who get sick. There are no positive COVID-19 cases in the homeless community.
• City employees have been working from home, and asked they continue to do so if possible.