On March 23, Gov. Roy Cooper took action to extend the closing of public schools through May 15.The Governor has expanded the list of public places he has ordered to close in efforts to prevent the spread of Covid-19. It begins by stating that effective March 23, gatherings are to be limited to no more than 50 people.
Businesses closed to limit spread of coronavirus
By 5 p.m. March 25, the following must close:
- Bingo Parlors
- Bowling Alleys
- Ice Skating Rinks
- Indoor Exercise Facilities (e.g. gyms, yoga studios, and martial arts facilities)
- Health Clubs
- Indoor Pools
- Live Performance Venues
- Movie Theaters
- Roller skating rinks
- Spas
- Sweepstakes Lounges
- Video game arcades
- Personal care and grooming businesses, including:
- Barber Shops
- Beauty Salons
- Hair Salons
- Manicure/Pedicure Providers
- Massage Therapy
- Nail Salons
- Tattoo Parlors
There is also a ban on visitors – other than health care personnel and those providing end-of-life care – to long-term care facilities, nursing homes, mental health group homes and other facilities for those with intellectual disabilities. As well as closing public playgrounds where shared equipment could carry germs. However, people can continue using open spaces at parks, including greenways and trails while maintaining social distancing.
What’s still open?
The list of businesses required to close does not include:
- grocery stores, although many have limited hours, to allow for thorough overnight cleaning
- pharmacies
- big box or other retail stores
- manufacturing plants
Many retail stores and workplaces that remain open are encouraged to take customers’ and employees’ temperatures before they enter their buildings. it states that anyone with a fever of 100.4 or higher should be turned away.