RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) –Gov. Ralph Northam gave updates on the COVID-19 outbreak at a press conference Sunday afternoon.

“This is serious. Everybody needs to take this seriously,” said Gov. Northam.

Northam said the number of reported coronavirus cases in Virginia rose to 45 today and yesterday was the first coronavirus related death in the state.

He also expanded on his ban on gatherings with more than 100 people in a room. He said the ban included gatherings such as stadiums, parades, and festivals, not hospitals, airports, and restaurants.

“It does not mean normal operations at airports, offices, hospitals, restaurants, grocery stores or other retail establishments,” Gov. Northam said. “It’s just not a good idea for that many people to be that close to each other right now.”

However, Northam said people should ask themselves if it’s necessary to visit the bar and consider the risk. He also suggested restaurants seat people at every other table rather than every table to encourage social distancing.

State employees will be following Northam’s guideline of no more than 100 people in a room and begin to telework. This announcement came after a Virginia Department of Emergency Services employee tested positive for COVID-19.

State Health Commissioner Dr. Norman Oliver said as of Sunday morning, there were 45 cases of coronavirus in Virginia.

“We’re really concerned about the outbreak in the peninsula region,” said Oliver.

A cluster of eight cases in the peninsula region of the state is causing concerns. One of those eight cases ended in the first Virginia death from the virus. The victim was a man in his 70s. Where he contracted the virus is unknown.

Northam is advising Virginians to use common sense and stay home if possible.

“If you’re going to a crowded bar or a large church full of people, I would urge you to rethink those plans. Ask yourself if it’s really that important that you go out right now,” said Northam.

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