TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) - Mayor Jason Shelton says everyone should work together to combat the coronavirus.

Shelton imposed a stay-at-home order that went into effect early Sunday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Related - Tupelo now under stay-at-home order to prevent coronavirus spread

He said the precaution is all about keeping Tupelo safe.

Shelton has issued nine executive orders limiting residents' activities and businesses so far.

“Clear that these executive orders that we're doing, we're not just creating those. All of the basis and rationale for what we're doing here is coming from recommendations from state and federal leaders.”

The streets of Tupelo may look empty right now, but the mayor said allowing only essential businesses to remain open right now is critical to overcoming the coronavirus.

He said city leaders are working to get on the same page with Lee County and other municipalities in the county.

“You know, we're not an island. We've got all worked together to flatten the curve,” he said.

Shelton also apologized for his criticism of state leaders in their response to the virus. He said his temper got the best of him and everyone needs to work together.