This browser does not support the Video element.
RICHMOND, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - While many features of life before the COVID-19 outbreak in Virginia will have to stay on hold, after Thursday at midnight, residents will be able to resume at least one normal activity.
Governor Ralph Northam announced on Wednesday that elective surgeries and dental procedures can resume after midnight on Thursday, after an emergency order to postpone such procedures was signed in March.
READ MORE: DC, Maryland and Virginia coronavirus case total latest
The Governor noted that, at the time, the state felt it needed to preserve personal protective equipment in case the COVID-19 outbreak spread more quickly than anticipated.
In that case, they would need to make sure healthcare workers on the frontline of the battle against the sickness would need protection.
Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather
Although the number of novel coronavirus cases in Virginia has hardly abated, officials are now confident that they have the equipment in place to accommodate such a surge. In addition, the state’s hospitals have not been overwhelmed in the numbers officials had feared they might be.
Moreover, Northam says the state has been successful in slowing down COVID-19, if not in halting it altogether.
The governor encouraged anyone who has put off any procedure, to call their healthcare provider to set up appointments.
MOBILE USERS: Click her to watch the livestream
This browser does not support the Video element.