Alexandria Coronavirus Update: 36 Cases, Restrictions Enforced

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Alexandria Health Department reported four additional cases of the new coronavirus, or COVID-19, in the city Monday. The new total of cases is 36. The number of cases continues to increase as a result of close contact investigations and expanded testing through private health care providers.

The health department identifies and contacts individuals who are close contacts with positive COVID-19 cases. Those close contacts are asked to self-quarantine and monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. A close contact who experiences symptoms will be tested.

As of Monday, the neighboring Fairfax Health District reported 225 total COVID-19 cases and has confirmed two deaths. Arlington County reported 86 cases and confirmed its first two deaths Sunday.

Individuals who may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (coughing, fever of over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and shortness of breath) should contact their health care provider to ask about whether they can be tested. Those with symptoms should isolate themselves, avoid contact with others, wash hands frequently and disinfect surfaces frequently. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a coronavirus self-checker to review symptoms. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and believe you've had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, call the Alexandria COVID-19 information line at 703-746-4988, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

On Sunday, the health department cautioned residents against unproven treatments for the treatment and prevention. Chloroquine, used for various health conditions or treating pets, and the related compound hydroxychloroquine should only be used as medications prescribed by health care providers. The FDA reported that a man died after reportedly taking chloroquine, and his wife became ill. The health department also warned that hoarding these types of medication could impact people who need them for various conditions.

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With Virginia under a "stay at home" order, the city urges residents to stay home. The order has exceptions essential trips such as obtaining food and medical care. When out in public, individuals should practice social distancing — maintaining six feet from others.

The city is enforcing the governor's executive orders, including the ban of gatherings of 10 or more people and restrictions on certain business operations. Non-essential recreation and entertainment businesses must be closed, while restaurants can only operate with only takeout and delivery. Gatherings of more than 10 people, trespassing on city property closed to the public, damages to city property, business operation that violates the state orders should be reported to the Alexandria Police Department at 703-746-4444.

The city has announced additional suspensions of parking restrictions until further notice. Time restrictions for the general public in residential parking permit zones are suspended. The city has halted weekend meter fees and time restrictions on blocks with paid parking, but enforcement will continue on weekdays. The city previously suspended time restrictions for street sweeping, as well as the 72-hour parking rule. Vehicles do not need to display a valid state inspection sticker. Other restrictions, including time limits for five-minute spaces and time limits in commercial corridors, will continue to be enforced.

With some businesses being forced to close and residents with less or no work, the coronavirus outbreak will continue to cause financial difficulties. ACT for Alexandria and the city created the ACT Now COVID-19 Response Fund to offer emergency funding to nonprofits providing critical services. The city is matching donations up to $100,000. On March 27, ACT for Alexandria reported it had rewarded $245,010 in grants to nonprofits.

ALIVE!, a nonprofit focusing on food, shelter, emergency and education assistance, has also been active in providing assistance to residents in need. On March 28, ALIVE! distributed free food to families in need outside John Adams Elementary and Chick Armstrong Recreation Center. ALIVE! continues to accept online donations as well as food. A list of emergency food access points is posted at www.hungerfreealexandria.com.

Another way to help neighbors is by volunteering time. Alexandria residents can also join the Alexandrians Supporting Alexandrians During COVID Facebook group, which aims to connect volunteers with neighbors who need grocery shopping, prepared meals and other assistance.

There are a few ways to support businesses and staff that are closed or running with limited operations. Customers are encouraged to get takeout or delivery during Restaurant Lovers Takeout Week from Monday, March 30 to Sunday, April 5. Visit Alexandria's ALX at Home lists restaurants operating with takeout or delivery, as well as ways other Alexandria businesses are operating. The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce also has an updated list of business offerings. If your favorite businesses aren't listed, check individual websites to see if you can support employee relief funds or purchase gift cards.

Farmers market customers can continue supporting vendors through pre-orders. Alexandria's farmers markets are allowed to operate with pre-orders only and social distancing guidelines. Participating vendors are also available on the ALX at Home website.

SEE ALSO:

• Alexandria Farmers Markets Can Operate With Pre-Orders Only
• Takeout Week, Employee Relief Funds Support Alexandria Eateries