Coronavirus Update

Mar 13 | News

As you no doubt have seen, there’s a great deal of concern in our community regarding COVID-19 (coronavirus), the respiratory illness that began in Wuhan, China and has now spread around the world. The Governor has issued a state of emergency for our Commonwealth and laid out additional steps Virginia is taking to limit the spread of the virus.

Currently, there are 17 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Virginia. Many colleges and universities have extended spring break, canceled in-person classes, and are switching to online instruction indefinitely.

In the meantime, there are a few common-sense steps to help keep you and your family safe and slow the spread of the virus:

• If you are sick, stay home.

• 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 as much as possible.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve (not hands) when coughing or sneezing.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Avoid contact with sick people as much as possible.

• Avoid non-essential travel.

• CDC does not recommend that people who are well wearing a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a healthcare facility).

• Stay up to date with the latest information. Visit www.VDH.virginia.gov/coronavirus.

My office is monitoring the situation in Virginia closely and will keep you advised as we learn more. In the meantime, if you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to my office at [email protected].