For Immediate Release: August 7, 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.
The Virginia Supreme Court has granted a temporary statewide moratorium on eviction proceedings in Virginia. The Court's order, which is effective August 10 through September 7, halts all eviction proceedings related to failure to pay rent. Governor Ralph Northam requested this moratorium in a letter to Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Donald Lemons on July 24. By granting this order, the Virginia Supreme Court allows residents to maintain safe, stable housing in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, and gives the Governor time to work with the General Assembly to develop more permanent legislative protections for Virginia homeowners and renters. In June, Governor Northam launched the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP), which provides an initial $50 million in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding for Virginia households facing eviction and foreclosure due to COVID-19. Residents in need of assistance can visit the City’s website to learn more about the Virginia RMRP, and other COVID-19 related housing resources.
The Gay Men’s Health Collective, in partnership with Impulse Group DC, is hosting a free HIV testing kit pick-up event tomorrow, Saturday, August 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 2700 Prosperity Ave. in Fairfax. This event, open to anyone in the region, is designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the need for attendees to spend time at an in-person testing location. Attendees can drive up or walk up to pick up a free Oraquick rapid home test kit. In addition to lunch, small incentives and swag items, on the spot pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP & PEP) referral services will be provided. For more information, see the event flyer.
Alexandria Library is offering an Outdoor Computer Cafe at the Burke Branch Library (4701 Seminary Road) while the library remains closed due to COVID-19. Wireless printing is available. The Cafe is located on the parking lot side of the library. One- or two-hour sessions are available on weekdays: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Wednesday, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Time slots can be reserved online or by calling 703.746.1704. Computers may not be removed from the designated area, and customers are responsible for any damage to the device while in use.
This week, the City’s Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) launched Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels to broaden engagement with residents and increase access to resources, services and programs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, that support the safety, health, self-sufficiency and well-being of Alexandrians. DCHS is a central point for resources and services for those in need.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 2,917, including 60 fatalities. Today’s addition includes a significant increase due to a data backlog caused by technical issues at the Virginia Department of Health. Some cases reported for August 6 should have been reported for August 4 or 5 instead.
COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that 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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