NJ’s COVID-19 Cases Up by 31; Statewide School Closings Imminent

By George N. Saliba, Managing Editor On Mar 15, 2020

New Jersey’s COVID-19 cases spiked by 31 in the past 24 hours (including a new fatality), for a total of 98 confirmed cases statewide.

Both Governor Murphy and Health Department Commissioner Judith Persichilli urged the state’s residents and businesses to adhere to social distancing (limiting face-to-face contact with others), which is a critical measure for slowing the virus’ spread, especially in the coming days.

On social distancing overall, Murphy said, “Not enough is being done. There is too much business as usual, and we need that not ‘most of us’ – but ‘all of us’ – follow [social distancing]. And this is something that none of us can be cavalier about.”

He stressed that young people may “feel healthy,” but they may be asymptomatic and still spreading the novel coronavirus.

Gov. Murphy said a statewide school closure announcement is “imminent” for tomorrow afternoon, but he has to first ensure that vulnerable students who need school meals are cared for, among other concerns.

Murphy also gave state employees work-from-home directives, and urged other workers to work from home, as well.

Commissioner Persichilli said overall, “Social distancing is vital: limiting face-to-face contact. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to avoid gatherings, both small and definitely large.”

She noted that a single family gathering in Monmouth County resulted in several positive cases.

More news:

• An online portal for businesses has been established: http://.cv.business.nj.gov
• The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance is working to allow people to sign up for health insurance via the Affordable Care Act during the coronavirus crisis.
• Some Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers arrived from the national stockpile, and is in the process of being delivered to healthcare sites in critical need.

More reporting on these and other measures will be featured in tomorrow’s New Jersey Business Today.

To access more business news, visit NJB News Now.

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