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GOVERNOR MURPHY MOBILIZES NATIONAL GUARD TO ASSIST IN STATE’S EFFORTS TO COMBAT SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS

Governor Murphy announced this afternoon that he is mobilizing the New Jersey National Guard to assist with the COVID-19 Coronavirus and help flatten the curve of the population of those infected. 

NEW RESTRICTIONS AND PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

ANNOUNCED MONDAY, MARCH 16

 “In order to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must take aggressive and direct social distancing action to curtail non-essential activities in the state,”said Governor Phil Murphy.  “Our paramount priority is to ‘flatten the curve’ of new cases, so we do not overwhelm our health care system and overload our health care professionals who are on the frontlines of the response.”

Governor Murphy issued an executive order that directs the following effective immediately:

  • After 8 p.m. today, all non-essential businesses must close entirely, including but not limited to bars, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters until such time as it is safe to resume opening.
  • All bars and restaurants are closed for EAT-IN SERVICEeffective 8 p.m. tonight. After 8 p.m., these establishments may offer takeout and delivery food orders only until further notice.These restrictions will remain in place during daytime hours as well.
  • All non-essential retail and entertainment businesses must close entirely by 8pm.
  • During daytime hours, businesses may remain open if they limit their occupancy to no more than 50 persons and adhere to social distancing guidelines.
  • Businesses that play a direct role in emergency response efforts or are necessary for the general public’s welfare — like supermarkets and grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices and gas stations — may remain open past 8 p.m.
  • All non-essential and non-emergency travel in NJ is strongly discouraged after 8 p.m. through 5 a.m. until further notice.
  • All gatherings in the State of New Jersey shall be limited to 50 persons or fewer, with limited exceptions.

5PM STATISTICAL UPDATE:  

The latest statistics related to the COVID-19 Coronavirus from Governor Murphy’s office this afternoon includes 80 new positive test results in New Jersey ranging in age from 5 to 93 years.  This brings the statewide total to 178.  Middlesex County now has 20 positive cases.  

“Now is the time for all of us to take the restrictions and guidance from the Governor very seriously. All of the measures we are taking now will determine the outcome of this crisis.” said Mayor Tamburro. “Every crucial step we have taken here in Monroe Township will help slow the spread of the virus. We need everyone to stay at home unless you must travel to a doctor, the grocery store or the pharmacy. Thank you to all of those on the front lines including our municipal employees who are working to keep our community safe.”

Monroe Township remains at one positive case as previously announced.  The resident is a family member of a student at the Middle School and the High School.  The patient is home under self-quarantine.