Coronavirus: Bel Air News And Updates

BEL AIR, MD — The new coronavirus outbreak in Maryland and across the country has impacted the Harford County area, including the closure of businesses and schools in Bel Air.

As of Wednesday, there were 34 cases of the coronavirus in Harford County, an increase of 10 since Monday.

Residents who think they may have the new coronavirus are encouraged to call their physician or the Harford County Health Department at 410-612-1779 for next steps.

More than 1,900 people statewide have tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, the Maryland Department of Health reported Wednesday morning. Thirty-one people in the state have died from the virus as of Wednesday, compared with 15 Monday, according to officials.

As the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus rose, additional measures were taken to contain its spread. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan on Monday declared a stay-at-home order. MORE

Here's the latest news and updates for the Bel Air area:

TESTING

A new coronavirus testing site has been set up at the vehicle emissions testing program site in Forest Hill. It is one of three VEIP testing sites for the virus in the state. Others are in Glen Burnie and Waldorf. People must have an appointment and doctor's order. "These sites are for residents who are symptomatic and in high risk categories for developing serious illness," Gov. Larry Hogan said. MORE

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also released a screening tool people can use at home if they are concerned about symptoms.

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TRASH AND RECYCLING

The town of Bel Air is still collecting trash and recycling as scheduled but bulk trash pickup stopped as of March 23. MORE

SCHOOLS

Public schools in Maryland are closed at least through April 24. MORE

Harford County Public Schools reported its teachers would be reaching out to families this week to discuss "Recommended Learning Experiences" to use over the next two weeks. MORE

SCHOOL MEALS

Harford County Public Schools is distributing three meals a day at various locations. MORE

PARKS

Town of Bel Air parks have been closed. MORE

Harford County parks remain open, except Cedar Lane Park. Playgrounds, pavilions and the skate park have been closed. MORE

State parks are open. Beaches at parks are closed. People must stay 6 feet apart and be with fewer than 10 people. MORE

GOVERNMENT

The lobbies at Bel Air Town Hall and the Department of Public Works will be closed to the public. Town committee meetings are canceled. MORE

Harford County has canceled events through March 31. MORE

HOSPITALS

The University of Maryland Medical System has implemented a no-visitors policy March 20, including Upper Chesapeake. MORE

BUSINESSES

Restaurants can operate take-out and delivery services. MORE

Nonessential businesses have closed. MORE

The state is offering relief for impacted businesses and employees. MORE

Some companies, particularly grocery stores, are hiring in Bel Air. MORE

FIRST RESPONDERS

The Bel Air Police Department is not having officers respond in person to certain types of calls that can be fielded over the phone. MORE

The Harford County Sheriff's Office closed its lobbies to the public and alerts the public deputies are still issuing tickets, with social distancing. MORE

Harford County fire and EMS crews have special gear to protect themselves, as do law enforcement, and the 911 call center is screening for those who may have the coronavirus so emergency personnel know to take extra precautions. MORE