For Immediate Release: July 27, 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 recent analysis by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington of more than 20 studies on the effectiveness of face masks has concluded that COVID-19 infections would drop by two-thirds, and deaths from COVID-19 would drop by one-third, if 95% of people in the United States wore masks. Currently, even the states with the highest mask use among residents -- Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Virginia -- are only in the 50 to 60% range. An NPR infographic shows that one person with COVID-19 who does not wear a mask could infect 89 people. With a mask, the number drops to 33. Since those without symptoms can still transmit the illness to others, it's critical that everyone wear a mask regardless of whether they feel sick. While most people who become infected with COVID-19 do recover, many may suffer long-term health consequences and can experience prolonged periods of illness.
The City’s Workforce Development Center (WDC) launched “Strive & Thrive” to support getting Alexandria’s workforce back to work as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. WDC offers remote events, job fairs, training and services such as job coaching and workshops. Job seekers can enhance their skills by virtually attending workshops and webinars focused on topics like virtual job searching, interviewing, and resume development. WDC staff also offer one-on-one employment coaching and connect job seekers with helpful resources. Workshops offered in August include “Resume Building,” “Master the Job Interview,” and “Job Search Skills,” among others.
Every week, the WDC posts a list of employers who are hiring for a range of positions. Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to view the flyer, follow the WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn; or visit the Workforce Development Center’s Job Board for the latest information on job opportunities.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reported an increase of 25 cases and 1 fatality in Alexandria as of July 24; 8 cases and no fatalities as of July 25; and 40 cases and no fatalities as of July 26; bringing the total to 2,735 cases, including 57 fatalities. The daily variation underscores that cases are recorded as of the date VDH assigns them to Alexandria, which is not necessarily close to the date patients were ill or their lab results were confirmed. For example, the fatality reported on July 24 occurred in June. Cases are frequently reassigned between localities once patients’ places of residence are clarified.
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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