For Immediate Release: July 24, 2020
The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults, persons with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask in most indoor public settings. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you to stop the spread of COVID-19.
A study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found a delay in return to normal health, even among young adults with no underlying chronic health conditions. In a telephone survey, 35% of symptomatic adults, including ages 18-34, who had a positive outpatient test result had not returned to their baseline health 2-3 weeks after testing. Cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath were the symptoms with the longest duration, even among patients with milder outpatient illness. Prolonged symptoms are common for hospitalized patients, but this additional information will help to further understand COVID-19 and future policy development for health departments, businesses and communities. Health officials remind everyone we still have a lot of control: wear a mask when in public; maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others; and wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Alexandria kids are invited to participate in the Sheriff’s Office Virtual “Junior Deputy” Camp. Summer is a little different this year, but whether kids are at home, going to a recreation center, or participating in a modified camp program, they can still have fun. Every child who completes at least 25 of the listed activities by August 21 receives a “Junior Deputy” certificate and patch. There are many activities to choose from, including playing water bottle bowling; taking a virtual tour of Alexandria’s Apothecary Museum; having family game night; and writing a letter to the Sheriff. Parents or adults are also welcome to email some photos of kids doing their activities for the Sheriff’s Department to share on social media. This activity is free to participate, and no registration is required.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 2,662, including 56 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and nearly 10% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask, and carry and use hand sanitizer. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.
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