Gov. Murphy: Here's Where Coronavirus Slowing Most, Least In NJ
NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy, speaking during a Thursday news conference, presented data showing that a number of New Jersey counties have had a significant slowing of the coronavirus outbreak. Murphy made the announcement as he provided the latest daily numbers on the outbreak: 4,427 new cases and 307 more deaths (you can watch it here, below).
The number of cases rose to 99,989 on Thursday, and 5,368 people have died. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know
Murphy presented a list of counties that showed their rate of spread, based on how long it takes them to double their cases (see the list below).
Three weeks ago, many of these counties saw their cases doubling every day. Now, at least three counties – Bergen, Hunterdon and Monmouth – are doubling on a monthly rate.
"We are slowing our rate of spread," Murphy said, pointing to the state's stay-at-home orders that began a month ago, and the public's compliance, as contributing factors for why New Jersey is seeing progress.
"That's because of what you're doing out there," Murphy said.
At the same, Murphy said New Jersey is a "weeks away" from easing up on restrictions and, right now, "we can't ease up one bit."
"I'm not in any position to open up our economy," said Murphy, who earlier said that New Jersey will provide a blue print for a reopening soon.
Here are the counties and the number of days it's taking for their cases to double:
Hunterdon: More than 30
Monmouth: More than 30
Bergen: 29
Cape May: 28.5
Ocean: 27
Morris: 24.5
Essex: 23
Passaic: 22.5
Somerset 21
Sussex: 20.5
Middlesex: 19.5
Hudson: 18.5
Gloucester: 17.5
Union: 17.5
Warren: 17.5
Salem: 15.5
Burlington: 15
Atlantic: 14.5
Mercer: 14
Camden: 14.5
Cumberland: 10
Here is a map that shows where the coronavirus is slowing the most:
Murphy said 7,240 remain hospitalized in New Jersey, 1,990 of whom are in critical condition and 1,462 are in ventilators. On Wednesday, 752 people were discharged.
Murphy also paid tribute to people who lost their lives:
Rick Vanderclock was a member of the 85th class of the @NJSP Academy. He was a Trooper for 29 years. He leaves behind his wife of 46 years, two sons, and four grandchildren. May his memory bring them comfort at this difficult time, and happiness in the times to come. pic.twitter.com/HSjQrYFlum
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 23, 2020
Dave Clark was a firefighter with the Bay Head Fire Company, where he filled any role that needed to be filled, from chief engineer to safety officer. Bay Head has lost one of its bravest. To Dave, we thank you for your service, and to the entire Clark family, we are with you. pic.twitter.com/o23NoHZivC
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 23, 2020
Carolyn Martins-Reitz was the primary caregiver for her son, Thomas Martins, who had Down Syndrome. #COVID19 took Carolyn away from her family at the end of March. Just a little over a week later, it also took Thomas. They lived tremendous lives. Our hearts are with their family. pic.twitter.com/QzQgBZHNwC
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) April 23, 2020
This is a developing story. Patch will have more information as it comes in.
Has the coronavirus peaked in New Jersey? Here's what the models show, and what Gov. Phil Murphy and state officials have had to say. Read more: Has The Coronavirus Peaked In New Jersey?
Watch Murphy here (there have been some video problems, but there was sound):
New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.
Here's what else you should know:
Murphy issued a stay-at-home order, closing all non-essential business at 9 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Read more: Gov. Murphy Announces NJ 'Stay-At-Home' Order Due To Coronavirus
Murphy, speaking during a Thursday, April 16 press conference, said schools will remain closed through May 15. Read more: Gov. Murphy: NJ Schools Shut Through May 15 In Coronavirus Crisis
Murphy ordered stores across New Jersey on Wednesday, April 8 to require shoppers to wear face coverings or masks. Here's how you can get yours, and how the new rule will be enforced. Read more: NJ Shoppers Must Wear Masks: Where To Get Them, How It's Enforced
Here are 10 resources for you and your family to utilize as you navigate through the outbreak: Unemployment, Tests, Food: 10 NJ Resources In Coronavirus Crisis
New Jersey's courts suspended all new jury trials until further notice, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner said on Thursday, March 12. Read more: Coronavirus Throws Monkey Wrench Into New Jersey Court System
Murphy said during a live press conference on Wednesday, March 25 that he's ordering many day care centers to shut amid the coronavirus outbreak. Read more: Gov. Murphy To Shut Many Day Care Centers Amid Coronavirus Crisis
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a travel advisory for New Jersey. Read more: CDC Travel Advisory For NJ: No Coronavirus Travel Ban From Trump
New Jersey residents are expected to start receiving stimulus payments soon. Here's what you need to do beforehand. Read more: Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Payments: What You Need To Do In NJ
On Friday, March 27, Murphy allowed more types of New Jersey businesses – including gun sellers – to operate in the coronavirus outbreak. What's open and closed now? Read more: What's Open, Closed? More NJ Business To Operate Amid Coronavirus
Murphy announced on Tuesday, April 7 that state and county parks will close. Read more: Gov. Murphy Closes Parks On NJ Coronavirus Crisis's Deadliest Day
Here are four urgent tasks New Jersey wants you to do during the coronavirus outbreak, including wearing a mask. And here's why. Read more: Wear A Mask! 4 Things NJ Wants You To Do In Coronavirus Outbreak
How It Spreads
The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.
There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.
While the best way to prevent illness is to avoid virus exposure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention always recommends taking preventive actions to contain the spread of viruses. This includes:
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
This article originally appeared on the Teaneck Patch