[Archived] City of Alexandria Provides COVID-19 Updates; Food Safety Tips

For Immediate Release: April 25, 2020

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge everyone to follow state orders to STAY HOME except for essential trips such as food purchases and medical care, and keep 6 feet apart from others when in public. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Food Safety and COVID-19

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers recommendations for the proper handling of food and how to support the food retail industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. While there is currently no evidence of transmission through the food supply chain, the FDA provides guidance for safety precautions to take when grocery shopping and proper handling of food purchased to minimize the possibility of coming in contact with surfaces that may have been exposed to the virus. There is also information available for restaurant owners, employees and customers; temporary changes to packaging and labeling of food; and frequently asked questions that address food supply.

28 New COVID-19 Cases and 3 Fatalities Added in Alexandria

The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 575, including 18 fatalities. Detailed data is available through the links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. It is critical for all community members, even those who don't have a diagnosed illness, to stay home except for essential trips such as brief visits to the pharmacy, doctor, or grocery store.