Mayor Marty Walsh said Tuesday that coronavirus cases in the city have increased by 33% over a three-day period, but warned that the surge is only beginning.
The mayor said there are now 2,035 cases of COVID-19 in Boston. He said there have been four new deaths, bringing the city's total to 19.
"To truly get a handle on this crisis, we all must do our part," Walsh said, continuing to urge people to practice social distancing, to wash their hands and to cover their mouths when they sneeze.
"What we do in these next few weeks is critical to flattening the curve and literally saving lives, but there's still too many people that aren't listening. Every day, every moment counts."
He again urged residents to wear a mask or other face covering every time they leave the house.
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"We're all taking it one day at a time," the mayor said. "We want life to get back to normal as soon as possible, in the safest way possible."
Earlier Tuesday, Boston Pride and the City of Boston announced that this June's 50th anniversary of Boston Pride was being postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus.
"I know it's a very disappointing announcement," Walsh said. "It's one of our favorite times of the year... But it's the right decision. Everyone's health and safety is our utmost priority." And he promised that next June, the city will have "its biggest parade ever."
Walsh implemented a recommended 9 p.m. curfew this week after continuing to receive reports of people congregating in different areas of the city. He also asked all residents to wear masks when leaving the house after the city saw its largest single-day increase in coronavirus cases.
The recommended curfew extends through 6 a.m. each morning and applies to all residents except essential workers. People are encouraged to utilize delivery services as much as possible after 9 p.m.
The city has also closed all areas for recreational sports at city parks, including tennis and basketball courts. Areas for walking and jogging will remain open. All playgrounds were shut down last month.
The stronger restrictions took effect Monday and will remain in place until May 4.
