Trump: US 'may be' headed toward a recession

President Donald Trump and top public health officials are urging Americans to abide by new recommendations aimed at halting the spread of the coronavirus that will dramatically alter American life.

The White House released new guidelines Monday urging all older Americans and those with underlying health conditions to stay home and away from other people. And it is recommending that all Americans work from home, avoid bars and restaurants, and avoid social gatherings or groups of more than ten people.

Speaking from the White House briefing room as cases in the U.S. continued to spike, Trump said the U.S. could be coping with the virus until July or August," and maybe "longer than that."

The president also said the United States "may be" headed toward a recession as the economy continues to be battered amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The president says his administration's focus is on stemming the virus. Once the spread of the virus is stopped, Trump said he believes the U.S. economy will see a "tremendous, tremendous surge." The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down more than 11% Monday afternoon.

The president also is pledging federal support for airlines struggling because of the pandemic, saying he's "going to back the airlines 100%."

Asked how he rates his administration's efforts to stop the spread of the virus, Trump said he gives himself "a 10."

"I think we've done a great job," Trump said. "And the professionals, I think the professionals have done a fantastic job."

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.