By Lookout Staff

March 18, 2020 -- Los Angeles County health officials confirmed two new cases of the coronavirus in Santa Monica Wednesday, bringing the total to three.

They are among the 46 new cases announced by the County Health Department as of noon, bringing the total number of identified COVID-19 cases countywide to 190, County health officials said.

"Public Health is investigating these cases and will notify close contacts who are household members, intimate partners and healthcare professionals to assess and monitor them for signs and symptoms of illness," officials said.

"All confirmed cases are being isolated and close contacts are quarantined."

LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said the number of confirmed cases will continue to grow, but the trend will slow due to measures the County has implemented.

“We will see an increase in positive cases today, tomorrow and for the coming weeks, but that doesn’t mean our actions to slow the spread of the virus are not working," Ferrer said.

"The measures we are taking in LA County will help flatten the curve. By slowing the spread of the virus, we will protect our healthcare system and most vulnerable residents."

Public Health officials issued a Health Officer Order to "prohibit group events and gatherings, require social distancing measures and the closure of certain businesses, including bars, gyms, movie theaters and entertainment centers."

One death caused by the virus has been confirmed in LA County, which has a population of more than 10 million residents.

The number of confirmed cases in Venice and Beverly Hills rose from one to four each. The number of cases in West Hollywood leaped from 1 to 11.

For the Order along with guidance click here