For Immediate Release: October 22, 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 stresses the importance of staying healthy and encourages Alexandrians to continue getting routine health screenings and preventive medical care, which can reduce the risk of severe illness or death. In 2020, COVID-19 may account for two-thirds of excess deaths, which is the amount beyond the expected number of deaths for a given place and time. The largest increase in excess death, either by COVID-19 or other causes, has occurred in adults ages 25-44. The Hispanic population has been most impacted, with a 56% increase in excess deaths. Non-Hispanic American Indians and Alaska Native, Black, and Asian persons saw an increase of 29-37%, while white persons experienced a 12% increase. The disproportionate increases among certain racial and ethnic groups are consistent with noted disparities in COVID-19 mortality. AHD’s Public Health Justice Principles and strategic action frameworks were developed to address these disparities by prioritizing science-based recommendations; focusing resources on saving lives; and engaging and empowering Alexandrians most in need.
While the spread of COVID-19 remains a threat, residents are encouraged to find safe ways to enjoy Halloween and Dia de los Muertos. The City has been notified that the annual gathering of trick-or-treaters on Lee Street in Old Town will not take place this year. Here are just a few examples of lower risk celebration activities:
Del Ray Halloween Traditions - With the annual parade canceled due to COVID-19, residents can participate in a number of Halloween-themed contests online, including house decorating, group or pet costumes, and a scavenger hunt.
West End Drive-Thru Trunk-or-Treat - Families can dress in costumes while remaining in vehicles to drive through the Shiloh Baptist parking lot to receive pre-bagged treats.
Dia de los Muertos Virtual Requiem Concert - To remember the lives of those lost in the battle against COVID-19, the New Orchestra of Washington and Choral Arts will perform Brahms’ Requiem to embrace the spirit of celebrating, not mourning, the lives of those lost.
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian Dia de los Muertos Virtual Weekend - Online live events that feature educational and celebration with traditional music, mask-making, paper marigold demonstrations (including links to download and make your own), a reading list for children, and opportunities to remember loved ones.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 4,162, including 75 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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