New York, August 6 (RHC)-- The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus outbreak has surpassed 158,000.  Over 1,200 new deaths were reported on Wednesday, including 225 in Florida, where the number of cases has surpassed a half-million.

California recorded another 135 deaths as the state’s death toll approaches 10,000. On Wednesday, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti threatened to start shutting off water and electricity to properties hosting large parties, in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced the city is setting up checkpoints targeting visitors from COVID-19 hot spots.  Mayor de Blasio said: “We will have checkpoints at key entry points to the city.  Travelers coming in from those states will be given information about the quarantine.  They will be reminded that it is required, not optional.”