May 1st has passed and states are starting to slowly reopen businesses. Though there has not been a clear announcement for some, government officials have not pushed for further stay at home orders.
What Does “Reopen” Entail?
Some states are still in lock-down status like California, New York, Washington and Virginia. Other states never had a lock-down such as Utah, Nebraska and South Dakota though stay at home orders were still enforced. Even one of the hardest hit countries, Italy, is lifting restrictions after Nearly 2 months according to Forbes.
Though businesses like retail, hair salons and cafes are reopening, it is in small steps. Mandatory Mask orders and precautions are still being enforced by state officials for businesses and citizens.
“[Colorado] state recommends that anyone returning to a workplace maintain 6 feet between themselves and others at all times; take breaks to wash hands or use hand sanitizer; wear masks and gloves,” According to an article from the Denver Post. Colorado plans to reopen about 50% of its business and hopes to open the rest by May 27th.
Other states like Florida will be allowing the reopen of beaches, sit-in restaurants as long as they are at 25% capacity. Bars, hair salons and movie theaters will still remain closed until further notice. Georgia is also taking a similar route, encouraging business to practice social distancing and screening employees for illness.
Other states like Delaware, Washington D.C. and Iowa to list a few have just issued mandatory stay at home orders till May 15th with expectations of extension.
Since state governments were left to make decisions on what to do during this crisis, there are many different avenues each is taking. Though all are doing their best to enforce or encourage social distancing guidelines.
Is the Virus Gone?
Though even with reopening we are still at risk of the virus. According to the CDC they are still working on a vaccine for COVID-19.“When people recover from COVID-19, their blood contains antibodies, convalescent plasma — literally plasma from recovered patients — has been used for more than 100 years to treat a variety of illnesses,” said Harvard’s health institute. While waiting for this and without a proper way to treat more severe cases we all need to stay vigilant and continue to practice social distancing.
