More U.S. states ready for phased reopening
CGTN

As of Friday, the U.S. COVID-19 cases have surpassed 1.7 million, with total death toll over 102,000. More U.S. states have joined phased reopening, including Washington D.C., Illinois, Northern Virginia, Vermont, and Ohio.

After more than two-month lockdown, Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia started a gradual reopening. Any gatherings over 10 people is still prohibited. Barbershops and hair salons allow to open by appointment only, with social distancing rules remain in place but beauty salons such as waxing, threading, and nail salons remain closed.  

Restaurants and bars can serve customers outdoor at patios and rooftops. Meal takeout and delivery are still preferred.

In Washington D.C. and Virginia, wearing face coverings are required in public, but children under the age of 10 and people who are exercising, or cannot wear face coverings due to medical condition can be exempted from the requirement.

In Illinois, outdoor dining is allowed, but restaurants must keep tables at least six feet apart from each other and limit six customers in a table. Beauty salons, barbershops and tattoo parlors can reopen only if both employees and customers are able to wear coverings over their noses and mouths during the service. Massages and other body treatments cannot exceed 30 minutes. Nonessential retailers can reopen but are limited to 50% capacity.

In Vermont, hair salons and barbershops can reopen by appointment on Friday and are limited to 25% capacity while maintaining social distancing between customers. In addition, businesses must maintain a customer log in case contact tracing is needed in the future.

Ohio's stay-at-home order has expired on Friday. The Governor Mike DeWine announced that the state plans to reopen most of its businesses with restrictions in place before June 1.  Child care facilities with reduced numbers and day camps that meet safety protocols and sizes are allowed to reopen on Sunday.

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