In New York, many regions are poised to begin Phase Four of reopening. But that may not be the final phase as planned. Governor Andrew Cuomo says indoor shopping malls, movie theaters and gyms are not yet allowed to reopen.
Cuomo says the reason for the delay is that some studies have shown that the air conditioning in systems common in those indoor public spaces may actually spread the virus.
“That air conditioning may not be cleansing the air of the virus, and just recirculating the virus,” Cuomo said. “We’re studying that, and as soon as we get some more information we’ll make an informed decision.”
The governor says the malls, movie theaters and gyms could open at a later date, but he did not rule out the possibility that they could remain closed until there is a vaccine for the virus.