CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice extended an order that closed all bars in Monongalia County for an additional 10 days due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The latest order is effective until Aug. 3. The county includes West Virginia University’s Morgantown campus. Students will start moving back into campus residence halls starting Aug. 8 for the fall semester.
Monongalia County has reported at least 791 confirmed virus cases, by far the most in the state, according to state health officials. The number of active positive cases totals 289.
“Monongalia County remains a hotspot and going to a bar is among the riskiest things that we can do at a time where we’re trying to contain this terrible virus,” Gov. Justice said as he announced the extended order on Thursday.
The order does allow customers to purchase take-out food and drinks from Monongalia County bars. It also allows dining in bar areas of restaurants, hotels and other similar facilities.
The governor on July 6 issued an executive order mandating face coverings when people are inside buildings, although he has declined to impose a penalty for noncompliance.
There have been more than 5,500 total confirmed virus cases and at least 103 deaths in West Virginia.
For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal. The vast majority of people recover.
First Published: July 24, 2020, 12:55 p.m.
