2nd Confirmed Presumptive Positive Coronavirus Case In Arlington

ARLINGTON, VA — A second presumptive positive case of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, has been confirmed in Arlington County, according to a county release. The individual is identified as an associate of Christ Church Georgetown.

On March 9, a man identifying himself as the rector of the church in Washington, D.C., received a presumptive positive diagnosis. D.C. health officials recommended that anyone who attended services at Christ Church Georgetown on Feb. 24 or between Feb. 28 and March 3, begin self-quarantining themselves.

Following these instructions, the Arlington individual was self-quarantined when they contacted Arlington County Public Health after developing symptoms. ACPH recommended the individual be tested through Virginia's Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. The individual remains well and is isolated at home.

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This is the second presumptive positive case involving an Arlington resident. The first case involves an individual their 60s. After returning from international travel, the person had developed fever, cough and shortness of breath. The presumptive positive test result was returned Sunday, March 8, and confirmation by the CDC is pending. The Arlington resident is receiving medical care.

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness. In a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can cause death, particularly among those who are older or who have chronic medical conditions. According to the CDC, COVID-19 is thought to spread between people within six feet of each other through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Health officials urge residents to take these steps to avoid the virus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Avoid contact with sick people.

Related:

• Coronavirus Guidance Offered In Arlington Schools Release
• First 2 Presumptive Positive Coronavirus Cases Reported In DC
• VA Officials Work To Limit Spread From 1st Coronavirus Cases
• Virginians Warned Of Scams Related To New Coronavirus

COVID-19 Fast Facts

• Coronavirus refers to a family of different viruses. For instance, the common cold is a coronavirus. So is SARS. COVID-19, however, is a novel strain.
• Coronaviruses are zoonotic, meaning that they can spread between people and animals.
• Symptoms include a fever, coughing, and shortness of breath.
• COVID-19 can spread between people who are about 6 feet apart from each other and through respiratory droplets (produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes), the CDC says.
• An infected person may not experience symptoms for up to 14 days.
• To combat infection, frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, sanitize frequently touched surfaces and objects, and stay home from work or school if you're feeling ill.

SEE ALSO: Virginia Coronavirus Updates: What You Need To Know