UPDATE from the Governor's 3:00 pm News Conference, Sunday, March 15:
Governor Northam encourages Virginians to take basic health precautions and says, "social distancing now can save lives later."
Public gatherings and special events of more than 100 people have been banned in the state. However, Northam says normal operations of offices, retail stores and restaurants can continue. He suggested workplace and restaurant modifications, such as spreading workers or diners out.
State health officials say they have about 400 coronavirus tests on hand at the state lab and they expect to get more tests from the CDC this week. Private labs across the state will also be able to provide tests. However, patients will need to be screened and evaluated before testing.
Dr. Daniel Carey, the Virginia Secretary of Health and Human Resources, said at the news conference that Virginians should take this situation seriously, adding, "don't panic, but prepare. Our best defense is prevention."
The State Commissioner of Health, Dr. M. Norman Oliver, said there have been 45 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state with one death. He says he is worried about the eventual community spread of the virus, adding, "There will be new cases."
Governor Northam also thanked the state's health care workers and first responders.
For more on this developing story, visit our media partner, ABC 13 - WSET.