Four More People Have Died From COVID-19 In Massachusetts, Baker Says

BOSTON (AP) — Four more people in Massachusetts have died from COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, bringing the state total to nine.

The update came the same day Gov. Charlie Baker has ordered all nonessential businesses to close at noon on Tuesday and remain closed until at least April 7 in an effort to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. The Republican governor said Monday the state Department of Health has issued a stay-at-home advisory, but stressed that it wasn't a shelter-in-place order.

Read more: WATCH: Gov. Baker Orders Non Essential Businesses To Operate Remotely

Essential businesses include supermarkets and the businesses that support them, pharmacies and gas stations. Restaurants will be allowed to stay open for takeout and delivery.