Northam outlines phase one of Virginia's plan for emerging from COVID-19 pandemic

[TexasTowelie]

Virginia will begin to lift public restrictions once the percent of positive tests per day and hospitalizations show sustained decline over 14 consecutive days, state officials said Friday.

The guidelines are part of the state’s plan for emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, outlined by Gov. Ralph Northam amid calls for a return to normalcy by some in the business community and the GOP.

Northam said that while the spread of COVID-19 in Virginia is slowing down, cases are continuing to grow, meaning that the 14-day countdown has not begun.

Along with a decline in cases and hospitalizations, Northam said the state must also grow its healthcare capacity and increase its supply of protective equipment.

Read more: https://www.richmond.com/news/virginia/update-northam-outlines-phase-one-of-virginias-plan-for-emerging-from-covid-19-pandemic/article_434516e1-9f6e-51f5-b30d-d328870cc8bc.html

[no_hypocrisy]

1. What I don't understand is how anyone can assume after 14 consecutive days

sustained decline that it's permanent. Will governors like Northam close the states again if it spikes again?

[JudyM]

2. They will "reassess" if/when that happens. I think they're working together with their

epidemiologists/public health experts to develop some standard protocols.

If they’re able to sustain more rigorous testing they’ll be able to keep a finger on the pulse.

[JudyM]

3. Very few people here are wearing masks. Some states are requiring at least a cotton face covering

when in public.