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First state to lock down emerges as one of nation's worst hotspots

Despite being the first US state to lock down residents, the number of Californians contracting coronavirus is growing at a higher rate than in many other parts of the country.

The statewide “stay-at-home” order came into place on March 19, and could remain until August, according to USA Today.

As of Monday (local time), California had at least 94,558 confirmed cases of COVID-19, more than 3,000 hospitalisations and 3,795 deaths.

People enjoy the less restricted beachfront over Memorial Weekend in California. Source: Getty Images
Despite being the first US state to lockdown residents, the number of Californians contracting coronavirus is continuing to rise. Source: Getty Images

It has the fourth highest number of coronavirus cases of any state, but on Monday reported the most number of new cases with 2,382 more people testing positive for the virus.

The state failing to limit its rate of infection stems from two problems, University of California epidemiologist Dr George Rutherford told the Los Angeles Times.

Many residents are still leaving their homes to go to work, with others “fed up” with the lockdown and eager to go outside, he said.

Most coronavirus cases were essential workers

A study by the University of California discovered 89 per cent of those who have contracted the deadly virus were essential workers who needed to leave their homes to work, such as cleaners, restaurant staff and grocery store employees.

Surfers are seen at Ventura Beach. Source: Getty Images
Crowds were seen flocking to beaches and parks over the long weekend, with officials claiming many were wearing masks. Source: Getty Images

Despite the increasing tally, state officials announced on Monday (local time) that in-store shopping and places of worship can now reopen at 25 per cent occupancy capacity, as long as people keep a 1.8metre social distance between themselves.

Dr Rutherford told the publication opening up the economy, and therefore relaxing the lockdown rules, will put people at risk.

“Make no mistake…the more the economy opens up, the more people are going to die,” he said.

Waitress is seen taking the order of a group of people. Source: Getty Images
Scenes from the Busy Bee Diner in Ventura, one of the many restaurants that have reopened for Memorial Day Weekend. Source: Getty Images

“You have to be really careful to minimise that number and make sure it’s not on the backs of all the poor people who are doing the frontline jobs who are going to get the most exposed.”

Crowds were seen flocking to beaches and parks over the Memorial Day long weekend, with officials claiming many were wearing masks.

Residents are allowed to head out to exercise, but they must keep moving.

Pictured is the large crowd at the pool party. Source: KMOV-TV
A restaurant has copped a wave of backlash after hosting a crowded pool party for the Memorial Day weekend. Source: KMOV-TV

A restaurant in Missouri has copped a wave of backlash after hosting a crowded pool party during the public holiday.

Video footage filmed on Saturday shows hundreds of people drinking and swimming at Backwater Jacks Bar & Grill at Osage Beach while disregarding social distancing rules, St Louis station KMOV-TV reported.

The venue advertised the ‘Zero Ducks Given Pool Party’ on Facebook prior to the event, naming the featured DJs and claiming “extra precautions and safety measures” were taken to provide a safe environment.

with Reuters

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