W.Va. Gov. Jim Justice urged West Virginians to believe the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis “is very real” during a press conference that took place this evening in Charleston.
Justice, who has closed schools and bars, and has limited restaurants to carry-out or curbside service only, said he believes about “60 percent” of the state’s residents are taking heed to the warnings and are practicing the suggested precautions, but that there remains “40 percent” who are perplexed by the pandemic situation at this time. However, as of this evening, according to Justice, there are now 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state.
This particular coronavirus has been found in Ohio, Belmont, Washington, and Marshall counties thus far, and Justice said he made his appearance this evening because he knows if he had not, “many more would die.”
The list of precautions listed by the governor included this evening:
- Continue to wash your hands, and keep you fingers away from your face.
- Work from home if possible.
- Stay separated from those not living in your home.
- Talk with those we see not taking the warnings seriously.
The governor said he would likely offer another update Monday.
