US Capitol Complex Closed Over Coronavirus Concerns

WASHINGTON, DC — The U.S. Capitol Complex in Washington, D.C., will be closed to all visitors from Thursday, March 12, at 5 p.m. to Wednesday, April 1, at 8 a.m., according to a joint statement from officials representing both houses of Congress. The decision was made in response to concerns over the coronavirus.

"Following the guidance of the medical community, particularly the recent recommendation of DC Health, and in consultation with the Office of Attending Physician, the Sergeants at Arms of the House of Representatives and Senate have issued a temporary closure of the Capitol Visitor Center to all tours," said Paul D. Irving and Michael C. Stenger, the sergeant of arms for both the House of Representatives and the Sentate, respectively, in he statement.

Access to the U.S. Capitol, and House and Senate Office buildings will be limited to members of Congress, staff, credentialed press and visitors on official business.

"We are taking this temporary action out of concern for the health and safety of congressional employees as well as the public," the statement said. "We appreciate the understanding of those with planned visits interrupted by this necessary, but prudent, decision."

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Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a state of emergency and a public health emergency on Wednesday in response to the growing number of coronavirus cases in the District.

Thursday's announcement is just the latest in a string of similar announcements over the last week in the D.C. region. Events DC, which handles many of the largest conventions and conferences in the city, announced it was temporarily suspending operations, and many universities and DC Public Schools have adjusted their schedules for the upcoming weeks.

D.C. health officials are recommending that non-essential mass gatherings, such as conferences and conventions, be postponed or canceled until March 31. Officials define mass gatherings as events where 1,000 or more people convene in one location.

Organizers of smaller social and cultural gatherings should also consider rescheduling or canceling their events.

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