Gov. Phil Murphy provided an update on the coronavirus outbreak in New Jersey on Monday as hospitalizations, new deaths and new cases continue to decline.
By Matt Arco | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
The coronavirus death toll in New Jersey increased to 12,214 on Monday as officials announced the total number of cases now stands at 164,497 with the state one week away from Stage 2 of the reopening plan.
The latest update on the outbreak includes 40 new deaths and 356 new cases – the 10th consecutive day with less than 1,000 new cases. Gov. Phil Murphy said the downward trend in new cases and deaths continues, clearing the way for more reopening of businesses.
Public and private pools may reopen starting June 22, Murphy announced Monday, though though specifics on restrictions will not be released until Tuesday.
Health experts have said COVID-19 cannot be spread through chemically-treated waters in pools. As long as the pool is properly disinfected with chlorine and bromine, it should inactivate the virus, according to the federal Center for Disease Control.
Overall, the number of new coronavirus deaths, cases, and hospitalizations are down dramatically since peaking in April. And Murphy has gradually peeled back his restrictions, with the state set to enter Stage 2 of its multiphase reopening June 15, when restaurants will be allowed to offer outdoor dining and nonessential retail will be permitted to welcome customers back inside, though at half capacity.
