For Immediate Release: May 11, 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. If you must leave your home, keep 6 feet apart from others when in public, and wear a cloth face covering if you cannot maintain physical distance. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Update on Phased Reopening in Northern Virginia
On May 10, the chief elected officials of the five largest localities in Northern Virginia sent a letter to Governor Northam, supporting his “Forward Virginia” reopening plan in general but urging him to implement it for the region only once regional threshold metrics have been met. Although the metrics appear likely to be met statewide by May 15, the region’s health directors have determined that this does not appear to be the case for Northern Virginia. Earlier today, Governor Northam indicated that a decision on the next steps for reopening Northern Virginia would be announced no later than May 13.
Caring for Someone Sick at Home
New guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention includes updated information on caring for someone with COVID-19 at home or in a non-healthcare setting. The guidance outlines what to do when someone has symptoms of COVID-19 or when someone has been diagnosed with the virus, as well as strategies for caregivers to keep themselves safe. This information also should be followed when caring for people who have tested positive but are not showing symptoms. Notably, older adults and people of any age with serious underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for developing more severe illness from COVID-19. People at higher risk of severe illness should call their doctor as soon as symptoms begin.
New CDC Cleaning Guidance for Businesses and Homes
New guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines specific best practices for cleaning and disinfecting public spaces, workplaces, businesses, schools, and homes. As states begin considering reopening plans, the CDC urges all organizations to make a cleaning and disinfecting plan to ensure that both employees and the public stay safe. A flowchart on the CDC website helps you determine what to clean and disinfect and how to do so safely.
Virtual Job Fair on May 13
Virginia Career Works is hosting three sessions of a Virtual Job Fair on May 13, at 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Participants will need access to the internet and a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone. Participation is free, but registration is required. Once registered, job seekers can preview participating employers and job opportunities. During the three sessions, participants will have the opportunity to meet employers via text chats in a private chat room. Employers will also have the ability to initiate one-on-one video chats with job seekers. Watch a video to learn more about how the event will work. Learn more about the Virtual Job Fair or register now.
Conducting Virtual Code Inspections
This is the third in a series of stories this week about ways the City has used innovative telework solutions to help protect employees and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To avoid close contact between staff and customers, the Department of Code Administration has offered virtual inspections of occupied residential interiors since March 24. Customers can schedule a time with inspectors to show their properties via streaming video on smartphones or tablets. If a residential interior inspection is too complex to be conducted virtually, the customer may use a pre-approved, certified third-party inspector. Customers eligible for virtual inspections may schedule them directly with the inspectors assigned to their inspection appointments. In-person inspections are still conducted for residential exteriors, inspections for new residential construction, and all commercial inspections.
31 New COVID-19 Cases and No New Fatalities Added in Alexandria
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 1,224, including 30 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.
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