• Phase 1 of “Opening Up America Again” plan proposed by the White House includes returning to work in phases where possible, allowing large venues such as movie theaters and restaurants to open under strict distancing protocols, resuming elective surgeries and re-opening gyms with social distancing guidelines.
• The first phase also recommends that schools continue to remain closed, vulnerable populations stay home, and social distancing guidelines continue in public.
• Criteria to satisfy before proceeding to phased opening include a downward trajectory of documented cases, a robust testing program in place for healthcare workers, and the ability to treat all patients without crisis care.
• The Governor says Arkansas is beginning to meet some of the criteria. He says the goal to begin lifting some restrictions on May 4. It will take continued social distancing practices from Arkansans from now until then to allow us to meet that goal.
• Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith says more testing at the Cummins prison revealed 83 additional cases. There are now 129 inmates who have tested positive. The additional cases are not yet reflected in today's totals.

2020 Covid-19_infographic_2020-04-17.pdf