For Immediate Release: October 6, 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. To stop the spread of COVID-19, everyone ages 10 and older must wear a mask over their nose and mouth in indoor public places and when at least 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained between those of different households in outdoor public places. Learn more about the state order and City ordinance requiring masks, including exceptions. 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.
AHD urges everyone to get a flu shot to protect against seasonal influenza. It’s especially important this year, because symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar. This may make it difficult to tell the difference between the two illnesses, and COVID-19 testing may be needed to confirm a diagnosis. There are many locations where flu shots are available, including doctors’ offices, pharmacies (including those in grocery stores), and AHD. For residents who need transportation to an alternate flu shot location, Lyft is offering ride credits for anyone traveling to get a flu shot. Virginians can use the code VAFIGHTSFLU for rides to and from vaccination locations.
For all locations, call ahead to ensure vaccine supplies are available; ask if the provider has higher doses for those 65 years or older; stay home if feeling sick; wear a mask at all times. The City’s Flu Preparedness Information web page also provides important information including a graph of symptoms for various illnesses and tips on how to prevent the spread of viruses such as influenza and COVID-19.
An October 5 news release included an incorrect application deadline for the second round of Alexandria Back to Business (ALX B2B) grants. The correct deadline is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7. More information is available through the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 3,932, including 71 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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