Unfortunately, with the spread of the coronavirus rapidly growing many businesses have had to close during this time.

As of right now all non-essential businesses in South Florida have been closed in accordance to governmental orders. Essential businesses includes gas stations, healthcare services, hardware stores, and grocery stores, among others.

This order was announced yesterday by Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez. According to the order, essential businesses are ones that “provide food, shelter, social services and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals.”

Restaurants have been restricted to take out and delivery services only. This has affected owners as well as employees.

Juliana Santucho, owner of Patagonia Express in Coral Gables commented, “You can not stay to dine but we are are still serving take out [through] Postmates or you may come pick it up.”

She also said, “Not all employees are working at the same time but taking turns so not a lot of people are together at the same time.”

Without a paycheck, many people are worried on how they will get their income to pay for necessities for themselves and families. The government is offering assistance to these people who are without income or limited income because of the situation with Covid-19.

The main reason these places have been shut down is to practice social distancing which will help prevent the spread of the virus. 

Some of the businesses that are staying open have been told to follow these recommendations from the CDC. 

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
2. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
3. Put distance between yourself and other people. This is especially important for people who are at a higher risk of getting very sick.

All business are increasing their cleaning of surfaces and raising awareness of preparedness.

Albert Sarria, owner of College Park Shell gas station in Kendall said, “Gasoline sales are down due to less driving but store merchandise sales have remained steady.”

Sarria is hopeful that sales do not drop lower then they already have in order keep his employees working regular hours.

With the cooperation of everyone the main goal of minimizing the spread of COVID-19 will be easier to achieve. Remember to check up on your loved ones and to keep up good hygiene.