Governor Ralph Northam gave an update on COVID-19 guidelines in Virginia yesterday, Dec. 10. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, the new restrictions will be in effect. These restrictions are in effect until January 31. If the virus becomes “under control” before the deadline, restrictions will “loosen up.”
From midnight to 5 a.m., unless an individual is commuting to or from work, all people must stay home. Masks are required indoors and outside if individuals are not six feet apart. Everyone working in a restaurant must wear a mask, no matter their job. Gatherings are limited to 10 people. Restrictions do not change anything for schools, colleges or universities. Regulations for these institutions are set by local leaders.
The Governor stressed that 90 percent of businesses are complying with restrictions. However, if a business does not comply, they will get their licenses revoked. Virginia businesses have received 198 violation letters in total so far. Northam stated that any person or business that does not follow the regulations are being “selfish.” Enforcement of regulations will be increased.
Recreational indoor sports allow 25 spectators per field and two per player for outdoor sports. Northam suggested that schools should live stream or hold games outside to reduce spectator numbers.
On average, there are 4,000 COVID-19 cases a day, about four times the daily average in May. Today, in Virginia, there were 58 deaths. Currently, there is an 11 percent positivity rate. Governor Ralph Northam stated that the biggest problem is that staff in hospitals contract the disease, which, in turn, makes pressure on remaining staff larger. “I have put an ungodly amount of people in body bags,” stated a nurse from Southwest Virginia during the update.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is meeting today to discuss the Pfizer vaccine. If the vaccine is permitted, vaccinations in Virginia will start in 24 to 48 hours. The Governor is “considering ways to get teachers vaccinated.”
Northam has called on faith leaders to set a good example of mask-wearing and social distancing during the holiday season. “Worship with a mask is still worship,” said Northam.