A series of measures restricting business and people's movements have come in to force in the U.S. to try to halt the spread of Covid-19.

In New York and Los Angeles, entertainment venues have closed and restaurants will be limited to take out or delivery.

The Federal Reserve has announced help for companies that are struggling to get short term funding.

Restaurants, cafes and bars in New York City can now only serve takeout or food for delivery.  

It's hoped the restrictions will stop the spread of COVID-19.

But the food and drink industry is one of the cities biggest employers.

"This is crippling. As far as catering goes, there's no business, there's no customers here. We gotta make some cutbacks; we've gotta play around with the schedule. Some workers have got to stay home," said Tarelle Jones of Cafe Alice in New York City.

Theaters, nightclubs, cinemas and concert venues must also stay closed.

Many private companies and shops have chosen to shut.

More people are working from home so there are fewer customers.

The Federal Reserve says it will help businesses get short term credit.

"The Federal Reserve already thinks we're in a recession or they've totally vacated their mandate. Because they're doing what they're only allowed to do in cases of price instability, which we haven't seen yet - or mass unemployment, which we don't have yet," said Financial Consultant Max Wolff. "They’re betting on it.  In this case I would agree."

Many closures in New York have no end date.

And nobody knows how long the shut down will continue.