Fact vs. rumor: America is not quarantined for coronavirus, National Security Council says

Rush hour, Staten Island Expressway

The Staten Island Expressway, 7:30am, Monday, March 16, 2020. (Staten Island Advance/Jan Somma-Hammel)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Rumors circulating about a national quarantine for coronavirus are false, according to a message on social media by the National Security Council.

Some of the fake messages are being sent via texts.

“There is no national lockdown,” according to the Council.

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However, traffic is shockingly light on the Staten Island Expressway and other major roadways for a Monday morning rush hour, probably because all public schools are closed.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Sunday that schools will be shuttered until at least Monday, April 20, and possibly for the remainder of the school year. Remote learning will begin on Monday, March 23.

De Blasio also announced Sunday night that New York City bars, restaurants and entertainment venues would be limited to takeout and delivery orders only, likely further reducing congestion on roads during the evening rush hour and at night.

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