Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Governor Ralph Northam says according to modeling, the expected coronavirus surge of cases may not come until late April or late May. The Governor making the statement during his every two day briefing on the pandemic, during which, he explained why his State of Emergency and Stay at Home order extend into June.
Northam says the crisis will last months, not weeks. He also says he is examining legislation which could have an economic or budget impact, including a raise in the minimum wage. Activists are pushing for him to sign the raise, pointing out many who would benefit, including grocery store workers and home health aides, are currently working through the pandemic. The Governor has an April 11th deadline to sign legislation.
Northam also says they are working with the Army Corps of Engineers to identify field hospital sites. They are working on sites in Fairfax, Hampton and Richmond, and have begun to look in western Virginia as well.
There are currently nearly 1,500 cases of coronavirus and 34 deaths, according to the State Health Department.