Disneyland shuts its doors, cancels cruises amid coronavirus panic

Disneyland is closing its doors through the end of March to help combat the spread of coronavirus, the Associated Press reports.

On Wednesday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) called for Californians to put a stop to any nonessential gatherings of 250 people or more to tamp down the spread of the virus.

The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on Wednesday.

What are the details?

Shortly after Newsom's announcement, Walt Disney Co. announced that Disneyland in Anaheim, California, would close beginning on Saturday. Universal Studios Hollywood later made the same call.

According to the report, California has seen at least 200 coronavirus cases with at least four deaths at the time of this writing.

Of testing, Newsom said, "We've been very clear with our federal partners [on] the incredible importance of making sure we have all the components of [COVID-19] testing."

What else?

Business Insider reported on Friday that Disney also canceled all of its cruises for the remainder of March.

Despite the abrupt cancellation, Disney Cruise Lines says it will be disbursing refunds or credits to patrons and will continue to pay its staff members during the closure.

The outlet reports that at least 15 cruise trips will be impacted by the announcement.

A spokesperson for Disney Cruise Lines said, "In an abundance of caution and in the best interest of our guests and employees, Disney Cruise Line has decided to suspend all new departures beginning Saturday, March 14, 2020, through the end of the month. This precautionary measure applies to all four of Disney's cruise ships."

"While we know this decision may be disappointing, the health and wellbeing of our guests is of the greatest importance," the statement added. "We are equally committed to the wellbeing of our incredible crew members who live and work aboard our ships and on Castaway Cay. During the suspended operations, Disney Cruise Line will continue to compensate our Crew Members and shoreside Cast Members."