The effects of the coronavirus pandemic can be felt around the world. From the largest of cities to the smallest of villages, there is no escaping the life-threatening virus.

In addition to the virus claiming the lives of millions, businesses are also suffering as well. Though some are struggling more than others, it’s safe to say that there isn’t one that has been untouched by the pandemic.

One of those smaller businesses that is feeling the impact of COVID-19 is Julio Davalos’ dry-cleaning service, Lili’s Cleaners, in Dallas, Texas.

Davalos shared how his business has taken quite the hit since the pandemic began. People have been ordered to stay at home and to only leave their house when it is absolutely necessary. Unfortunately for Davalos, a dry-cleaning service isn’t considered essential.

“It’s been really, really, really, really slow,” he told CBSDFW.

Of course, the stay-at-home mandates put millions of people out of work. For Davalos, that means customers are not coming in to pick up clothing that they once needed for work. Some just don’t have the money to afford his services.

Giving CBSDFW a tour, he showed the large amount of clothing left behind by his clients.

“She was a travel agent, one of my insurance guys—”

It’s difficult to see Davalos showcasing all of the clothes left behind in his store. After all, it’s his life’s work. Still, he says he understands the need for the shut down.

“I understand everybody’s trying to save their money, while they can. Until everything gets back to normal.”

The state of Texas has seen its fair share of COVID-19 cases. As of April 30, the state reveals that 27,054 cases have been reported. It’s estimated that 12,507 of those patients recovered. However, the numbers shift on a daily basis.

There is no telling what tomorrow will hold.

Particularly since Texas Governor, Greg Abbott, shared plans this past Monday to allow businesses to reopen in order to restart the economy.

He noted that the reopening of businesses will be done in phases starting Friday, May 1.

The first to reopen will be malls, movie theaters, restaurants, retail stores, museums, and libraries. However, they will only be allowed to operate at 25% capacity.

Other businesses, like nail salons, barbershops, bars, and gyms are not yet permitted to open. But, Abbott is hoping to do so starting mid-May.

It’s also important to note that there is no requirement for businesses to open. It is entirely optional.

After this first phase of businesses reopening, the second phase will allow businesses to operate at 50% capacity. Abbott is hoping this phase can begin as early as May 18. That is, if two weeks of data show no flare-ups of COVID-19 cases.

Still, not everyone is on board with opening up non-essential businesses and warn that despite certain measures, it is very risky.

Former Dallas County Health Director and past president of the Dallas County Medical Society, Dr. John Carlo says, “There’s always a risk that we still could be very early in this.”

He warns that in order to truly know whether the number of cases wanes or increases, significantly more tests are needed. But he admits that a better scenario would be finding a treatment.

“I think we would be much much easier relaxing all the social distancing measures that we have in place.”

You can see CBSDFW’s interview with Julio Davalos and Dr. John Carlo below!

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Sources: CBSDFW, Texas Department of State Health Sciences, The Texas Tribune, Shareably