The governor has issued an executive order for "mandatory social isolation" that goes into effect at noon Friday.

In a taped announcement late today, she explained that it's meant to promote social distancing and to reduce face-to-face interaction. Here are some excerpts of the governor's address:

"Hafa adai. for the past few weeks, Guam has been engaged in the struggle against the COVID-19 virus. At my direction, this government took extraordinary steps to keep Guam safe. And I told you I would take further steps when they are needed. <p id="breakId_SPECIAL_pdf-1584607439346_WILL_RENDER_HTML_"></p><span id="mce_marker" data-mce-type="bookmark">?</span>

I also sought the advice of experts each of us can trust. Dr. Mike Cruz has been activated as the Guam Army National Guard state surgeon. He is also the signatory of the 2008 Guam Pandemic response plan. Dr. Jolene Aguon, our COVID-19 medical director is a specialist in pulmonology who will help coordinate our ems response. We have also activated over 50 school nurses to assist our efforts. These nurses are helping with airport screenings, public health surveillance, working at our health centers and answering our hotlines.

"This social isolation directive will also apply to shopping malls, retail stores, fitness centers, and outlets, but certain essential services will remain uninterrupted. Social distancing is meant to keep all of us healthy, especially the most vulnerable among us. The public must limit their movement, and stay home. I know that many of you will have questions. For more information, you can call 475-9473 0r 475-4770."

Exceptions to the order include health care, essential infrastructure, banks and credit unions, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, auto repair shops, garbage collection, hardware stores, laundromats, and food take-out or delivery. Again, the closures will remain in effect through March 30.