For Immediate Release: September 30, 2020
The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults and persons with underlying medical conditions 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 over both their nose and mouth at all times in most indoor public settings. Use the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you.
Beginning Thursday, October 1, a new ordinance goes into effect requiring that masks are worn over the nose and mouth in indoor and outdoor public places. The ordinance, which was adopted by City Council on September 12, expands on a state executive order that has required masks in most indoor public settings since May 29. Wearing masks has been proven to limit the spread of COVID-19. Find information about mask requirements, the state executive order and helpful tips and videos about how to wear masks correctly. The City has also produced numerous signs, flyers and videos that explain when, where and how to use masks while COVID-19 remains present in the community. These materials are available for download and print, or reproduction can be requested.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is seeking public comment on a proposal to cut Metrorail and bus services. Several issues are having a negative impact on WMATA’s budget, including ridership being down 80% from pre-pandemic numbers, Metrobus not collecting fares since March, and the added cost of maintaining safety measures that have been put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The funding from the Coronavirus Aid Relief Economic Security (CARES) Act has played a large role in covering the budget shortfall and will end in December. WMATA will have to furlough and lay off employees; reduce Metrorail hours of operation and reduce services; and defer capital program expenses. Alexandrians are invited to attend and participate in a virtual public hearing on Tuesday, October 13, at 3 p.m. to share feedback about the impact proposed WMATA changes. Residents are also encouraged to provide input in an online survey, which is open until 9 a.m. October 19.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,852, including 69 fatalities. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.
AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 12 infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms, so everyone must maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both the nose and mouth, and carry and use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol. Be prepared to help your family and neighbors by answering a call from AHD if you are identified as a close contact of someone who tests positive for COVID-19.
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