Calif. announces financial relief for businesses

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced several initiatives Thursday designed to relieve small businesses from the financial hit they are taking from state and local orders for residents to stay at home.

He directed people to go to covid19.ca.gov to find out about the various programs being offered. He also highlighted federal programs being offered, including the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program.

California's 40 million people are under state and local orders to stay at home except when performing essential tasks.

Health experts have said that is the best way to slow the spread of the virus, which as of Wednesday had infected nearly 10,000 Californians and caused 215 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is keeping a global tally.

Newsom has said the number of COVID-19 cases in California is expected to peak in late May.

The spread of the virus statewide has, so far, been slow enough to give the state time to prepare for an expected spike in cases that could overwhelm hospitals if extreme measures aren't taken to keep most people home and away from others.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.