Gov. Northam extends closure of non-essential businesses, asks Virginians for patience and to accept the 'new normal'

This afternoon during a press conference Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced that he is extending the closing of businesses considered non-essential and at a higher risk of spreading COVID-19 coronavirus such as hair salons, fitness centers and others that were shut down March 24.

The extension will keep the doors of those businesses closed until at least May 8, two weeks later than the original target date of April 24.

Northam told Virginians to get used to the "new normal" in the upcoming months such as staying at home more often, working from home, wearing face protection, and practicing social distancing to protect the most vulnerable segments of the population before easing restrictions at a future time.

"We need to be clear - things are not back exactly like they were before," he said. "Together we will figure out how to build a new normal."

Northam indicated the latest models suggest that social distancing has been helping to slow the spread of the virus, but warned that getting back to the old normal too soon could have adverse effects.

When people say it's time to stop what we're doing and get back to normal, they're wrong," Northam said. "Right now, the models and our hospitals expect that we'll be able to handle the expected surge in patients. But if we let off the breaks and go back to the way things were, we'll see another spike in cases that could overwhelm our hospitals."

Northam maintained that the stay-at-home order remains in effect until June 10. Gatherings of more than 10 people are still prohibited.

Northam asked Virginians to remember those who must work and put themselves in harm's way during this time, and he also asked for patience amid the frustrations and concerns people are experiencing.

"I know this has been a frustrating time," Northam said. "People are out of work. Businesses are closed. Our entire sense of normal life is out the window. People want to go out; they want to work or to see their friends and families. They want to know when they can regain control of their lives as they once knew them ... I want you to know these sacrifices that you have made have been necessary and they are helping; they are slowing the spread. They're giving us time to plan and prepare."

The entire press conference can be viewed here.

Find out more in the upcoming issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Pick up a copy or subscribe at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to view the full article in the e-edition version.