Hawaii’s governor has told tourists to stay away from the state because of the coronavirus, in what is sure to be a big hit to the island’s economy.
“I am strongly encouraging our guests to postpone their vacations for at least the next 30 days and reschedule it for a later date,” Gov. David Ige said at a news conference Wednesday.
Ige said the state would screen all passengers disembarking from cruise ships beginning Friday. Screenings for airport arrivals will also be implemented as soon as possible, he said.
Following the lead of other states, Hawaii has banned table service at restaurants, and all bars and clubs will be closed. The state has also prohibited gatherings of more than 10 people, including church services.
Hawaii has 14 confirmed cases of the coronavirus as of Wednesday afternoon, according to Johns Hopkins University.
