Governor Phil Murphy this afternoon reported 31 new positive Covid-19 test results, bringing the statewide total to 98.

That includes two fatalities.

“A statewide shutdown is imminent,” the governor said, in reference to all schools in New Jersey.

“We are going to lay down the inevitable tomorrow,” Murphy added at a later point on the call, when pressed about why Elizabeth on its website is pressing forward with open schools on Monday.

Murphy said he plans to pull the plug on schools tomorrow, Monday.

“Business as usual ain’t getting it done,”said the governor.

The governor and members of his cabinent – including Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli, Commissioner of Banking and Insurance Marlene Caride, and Education commissioner Lamont Repollet – jumped on a briefing call with the media shortly before 1:30 p.m.

Murphy lingered on social distancing.

“Not enough is being done,” said the governor. “There is too much business as usual. This is something no one can be cavalier about.

“Even if you’re young, we need everybody to take [social distancing] to heart,” he added. “Obviously losing schools is a big step in that direction. Working at home is a big step in that direction.”

Pershichilli spoke to yesterday’s death.

“This Monmouth County woman had contact with a confirmed case in Bergen County,” she said. “We continue to see the number of Covid-19 cases rise in this state. Avoid gatherings both small and large.

“A family gathering in Monmouth has resulted in the one death reported by the state,” the health commissioner added.