On Friday, May 8, Governor Carney announced that Delaware’s target date to begin reopening the economy is June 1.
“Ultimately, our ability to move into Phase I at the beginning of next month will depend on our ability to contain COVID-19 hot spots in Sussex County, especially along the Route 113 corridor. Because of the ongoing threat in Sussex County, we are not in a position yet to open Delaware’s beaches or remove restrictions on short-term rentals and out-of-state travelers. We need everyone to really lean into the effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in southern Delaware.”
In order to begin Phase 1, the state must meet the following requirements:
- 14-day decline in the percent of positive cases
- Ability to treat COVID-19 patients in hospitals without crisis care
- Extensive testing programs for health care workers
During the press conference on Friday, Governor Carney announced a state-wide COVID-19 testing program, and that a comprehensive tracing program would be announced this week- both of which are key steps to meeting the requirements to move into Phase 1.
Once Phase 1 is abe to begin, it will entail the following:
- Vulnerable individuals shelter in place
- Social distancing in public remains
- Limit gatherings to 10 individuals
- Minimize non-essential travel- personal and business
- Teleworking Encouraged
- Return to work in phases
- Consider special accommodations for vulnerable populations of workforce
- Schools and youth activities remain closed
- No visits to senior living facilities and hospitals
- Large venues, restaurants would have strict guidelines
- Elective surgeries to resume
- Gyms to follow strict physical distancing and sanitation protocols
- Bars remain closed
“Delawareans can’t let up. Even once we move into Phase 1 of reopening, we still need to maintain social distancing to avoid a dangerous rebound in COVID-19 cases. Wash your hands. Don’t go out in public unnecessarily. Don’t gather in large groups. If we continue to follow public health guidelines, we have a real shot of getting Delaware moving again starting June 1.”
For more information on how Delaware is handling the COVID-19 Pandemic, click here.
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