Coronavirus Updates: How long could we be social distancing?

The facts on microwaves vs. coronavirus | Presented by Slack ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

President Trump on Sunday extended the social distancing guidance until the end of April. He agreed "right away" to the extension after his task force presented him with data that showed the coronavirus could cause between 100,000 and 200,000 U.S. deaths even with the current guidelines in place, according to Anthony S. Fauci, the nation's top infectious diseases expert. More than 1,000 people have died in New York alone, the state said Sunday, with the number of confirmed cases climbing above 6,000. Howard A. Zucker, the New York health commissioner, said the state's known death rate is hovering around 1 percent. The actual rate could be lower because health officials don't know how many people have the virus — testing priority is given to those who are health-comprised or exhibiting obvious symptoms. Trump seemed to embrace the projections he once downplayed, saying between 100,000 and 200,000 deaths would represent a victory. On March 13, Trump criticized the Obama administration's response to the 2009 swine flu, which killed 14,000 people in the United States. The model the White House is now using to predict the virus's spread assumes guidelines for social distancing will stay in effect until the end of May. The FDA authorized widespread use of malaria drugs to treat the coronavirus, though they remain unproven. Millions of doses of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine will be distributed to hospitals across the country. Cardiac death is a possible risk in taking the drug, doctors say. The FDA's approval does not include long-term use to prevent an infection. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R), Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) and D.C. mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) all issued stay-at-home orders Monday that prohibit people from leaving except for essential trips such as venturing out for groceries or medicine. The number of known coronavirus cases in the District, Maryland and Virginia exploded to just under 3,000 on Monday, up from around 1,300 on Thursday. Officials in Virginia and Maryland have criticized the federal response to the outbreak, which Virginia Finance Secretary Aubrey Layne called "abysmal." Senate Republicans shortchanged the District in the stimulus bill by treating it like a territory instead of a state, which Congress normally does with such appropriations. Because of that, the District will get $491 million instead of a minimum of $1.25 billion granted to states. In an op-ed, Hogan and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) outlined what they believe states need to battle the virus. A new piece from The Washington Post's Fact Checker team explains what went wrong in U.S. testing. Missteps were ignored by leaders at the highest level of government, they write, which allowed cases to go undetected and contributed to the virus's spread. A Vincent van Gogh painting was stolen from a Dutch museum. In the pre-dawn hours on Monday, van Gogh's birthday, thieves broke into the Singer Laren, which has been closed due to the outbreak. The alarm went off when they smashed the glass, but they got away before police arrived. The stolen painting, "The Spring Garden," had been loaned to the Singer Laren for a temporary exhibit. Macy's furloughed most of its 125,000 employees because of virus-related store closures. It shuttered its 775 Macy's, Bloomingdales and Blue Mercury locations on March 18. Meanwhile, retail workers in their 60s, 70s and 80s say they're worried about contracting covid-19, but they continue to work because they need the money. The Justice Department is investigating stock trades made by at least one member of Congress – Sen. Richard Burr (R-N.C.) – during the early days of the global outbreak. As the chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, Burr received frequent briefings and reports on the threat. In mid-February, Burr sold 33 stocks that were estimated to be worth between $628,033 and $1.7 million. Content from Slack How to work from home while being your best self Working from home can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to. We've compiled our top tips for connecting with coworkers. Get more done with Slack, the channel-based messaging platform that helps you work better together. Tracking U.S. deaths and cases The Post is now tracking covid-19 deaths and confirmed cases at the county level. Below is the New York region, the epicenter in the United States. Click through to see cases in your state and how the virus is spreading. We're updating this page several times a day. (Joe Fox, Brittany Renee Mayes, Kevin Schaul and Leslie Shapiro)  Live updates Follow the spread of the outbreak around the world with our updating map. Post reporters around the world are publishing live dispatches 24 hours a day. Read live updates about the cases and impact in the D.C. area. How you can help people in need during the outbreak. Submit a question and The Post may answer it in a future story, live chat or newsletter. Your questions, answered We've received an uptick in questions about microwaving things to kill the virus, including these two today: "If you have a face mask with no metal in it. Can you sterilize it in the microwave or with UV light for re-use?" — Van Lewis, Virginia "Our mail is about the only thing we have coming into our home. Can we disinfect it, like by putting it in the microwave for one minute?" — Jack Elwell, California We asked Benjamin Neuman, the chair of the Biological Sciences department at Texas A&M University at Texarkana. Neuman said there is actually some research that shows some viruses can be killed by being microwaved. "One study from 2004 demonstrated that microwaving on high in a 900-watt microwave for as little as 5 seconds was able to inactivate a chicken coronavirus on cotton swabs," Neuman told us via email. But those experiments were done in a controlled lab setting, and the scientists knew exactly what they were microwaving and how much virus was on the swabs. There are a lot of unknowns in our own kitchens — how much wattage our microwaves are actually pumping out, how much virus is on the material and what that material is really made of. "But any inactivation protocol would probably have to take into account the size and material to be sterilized," Neuman said. "And microwaving could be hard on some kinds of mail — there are some kinds of paper that print via heat rather than ink, and those would probably become unreadable if microwaved." Even if microwaving the virus kills it, which scientists haven't verified, there's still risk in microwaving anything other than food. First, many masks — especially the super-effective N95 ones — have a little metal bar across the top that the wearer is supposed to use to form a seal around the top of the nose. Neuman said there's also a plastic box that holds the filter that will melt. So N95 masks absolutely cannot go in a microwave. Second, the materials in other masks, even non-N95 masks, could be damaged by the heat of the microwave, rendering them ineffective. Finally, mail and other paper could be damaged or even catch on fire if put in the microwave. Some reassuring news: even though the virus lives on paper or cardboard surfaces for some amount of time, the risk of catching the virus from those surfaces is very low, according to Joseph G. Allen, an assistant professor of exposure and assessment science at Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health. You can read his excellent op-ed on that subject here. If you can't get past the idea of opening mail during the outbreak, the safest thing to do would probably be to quarantine it in a closet for two or three days and open it after the virus dies naturally. Thanks to reporter Joel Achenbach for helping get to the bottom of these very good reader questions. Today's top reads Find more stories, analysis and op-eds about the outbreak on our coronavirus page, including: What a stay-at-home order actually means Tips on home-school plans that are realistic D.C.'s patient zero: A priest's journey from the intensive care unit to a reunion The now-arrested megapastor who kept his church open, said closings are for 'pansies'   He's 18 and wants to hang with 'his boys.' His mom hasn't been able to stop him. By Sydney Trent ●  Read more » Hospitals are being built on soccer fields, in state park cabins and converted convention centers By Ariana Eunjung Cha, Brittney Martin and Steven Mufson ●  Read more » Everything you need to know to set up a home office fast By Laura Daily ●  Read more » Please don't try this at home An astrophysicist wound up in the hospital with magnets stuck up his nose, after attempting to invent a coronavirus device that would warn the wearer if they were about to touch their face, the Guardian reports. Daniel Reardon, a research fellow at a Melbourne university, said he put magnets on the inside and outside of his nose, but the two inside stuck together. He then used the remaining magnets to try to remove them, but they locked on to the ones that were already up there. According to hospital records, "two doctors applied an anaesthetic spray and manually removed the magnets," the Guardian reports. Reardon told the Guardian he is done with magnets, and will find other ways to pass the time at home. We think you'll like this newsletter Check out Drop Me The Link for to cut through the 2020 noise and get the most interesting election story we're group chatting about sent to your inbox three times a week. Sign up »

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Governor Northam Issues Stay at Home Order Through June 10th

Governor Northam Issues Statewide Stay at Home Order

RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today issued a statewide Stay at Home order to protect the health and safety of Virginians and mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. The executive order takes effect immediately and will remain in place until June 10, 2020, unless amended or rescinded by a further executive order.

The order directs all Virginians to stay home except in extremely limited circumstances. Individuals may leave their residence for allowable travel, including to seek medical attention, work, care for family or household members, obtain goods and services like groceries, prescriptions, and others as outlined in Executive Order Fifty-Three, and engage in outdoor activity with strict social distancing requirements.

The executive order also directs all Virginia institutions of higher education to stop in-person classes and instruction. Private campgrounds must close for short-term stays, and beaches will be closed statewide except for fishing and exercise. 

"We are in a public health crisis, and we need everyone to take this seriously and act responsibly," said Governor Northam. "Our message to Virginians is clear: stay home. We know this virus spreads primarily through human-to-human contact, and that's why it's so important that people follow this order and practice social distancing. I'm deeply grateful to everyone for their cooperation during this unprecedented and difficult time."

The full text of Executive Order Fifty-Five can be found here.

Last week, Governor Northam issued Executive Order Fifty-Three closing certain non-essential businesses, prohibiting public gatherings of more than 10 people, and directing all K-12 schools to remain closed for the rest of the academic year. A Frequently Asked Questions guide about Executive Order Fifty-Three can be found here.

For the latest information about the COVID-19 outbreak, visit virginia.gov/coronavirus or CDC.gov/coronavirus.

CDC Issues Domestic Travel Advisory for New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut

This message includes weekly updates on the COVID-19 response from CDC. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated on the COVID-19 Situation Summary as it becomes available.

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March 30, 2020 This message includes weekly updates on the COVID-19 response from CDC. The COVID-19 Outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated on the COVID-19 Situation Summary as it becomes available.

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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update from Supervisor Dan Storck

"Leave nothing for tomorrow which can be done today," said Abraham Lincoln. Well, today, our community needs your help!  It is a strange and ever evolving new reality we find ourselves in as a result of the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Three weeks ago, we never imagined we would find ourselves with schools, parks, libraries and businesses closed; being asked to stay home; empty groceries store shelves or financial instability. However, we are all in this together and we will work to get through this together. Adversity drives us to find new ways to do things and that is just what TEAM MVD and the County are doing. As our Board Chairman Jeff McKay said last week, "I don't believe there's any better place in this country or this world to make it through trying times than in Fairfax County."We have the resources and we are prepared. For updates on all the County is doing and resources available, visit the County COVID-19 webpage and sign up for text alerts by texting FFXCOVID to 888777. There is also much you can do in this time of great uncertainty and need! Look out for your neighbors, offer to pick up groceries for the elderly or facetime those you might normally visit. In our broader community, many are facing financial or food insecurity. As our human services and non-profit providers are seeing increased demand, they are also receiving less donations. Blood banks are running low and many organizations still need volunteers – with safety and social distancing precautions. We have put together a comprehensive list of those offering services in our community, both for those in need and those looking to help visit our "Get Help, Give Help" webpage. We will continue to update this information. Businesses are also facing hardship and uncertainty, especially our small, local businesses. Please consider continuing to support those you can through ordering take out and delivery, purchasing gift cards or making donations to their employees.  We have a very strong, engaged and caring community. It has been amazing to see so many great examples of charity and assistance. It is also encouraging to see so many wonderful new healthy habits – families jogging and riding bikes daily, spending family time playing board games and using social media to connect with each other. These new habits, enhanced interactions and pathways are making each of us and our community stronger! Our destiny is in our own hands! Latest County COVID-19 News Links Unemployment Resources Available through Virginia Career Works Centers Health Care Options for the Uninsured Social Distancing, Self-Isolating and Quarantine: What Do These Terms Mean? Three Inova Respiratory Illness Clinics Open Today Don't Flush Wipes Down the Toilet — Staying Safe During COVID-19 Fairfax County Government Buildings Closed to the Public Starting at 5 p.m. on March 27 Fairfax County Extends Tax Deadlines for Car, Business and Real Estate Taxes Park Authority Closes All Parks; Trails Remain Open Video: Coronavirus 101 Health Department Presentation — English and Spanish  Governor Announces Business and School Closures Due to COVID-19 Videos: Virtual Children's Storytimes with Library Staff NOTE: Only those topics that are new since my last newsletter are updated below. For information sent in previous emails: Wednesday, March 25, 2020 Tuesday, March 24, 2020 Friday, March 20, 2020 Monday, March 16, 2020 Saturday, March 14, 2020 FCPS FCPS will begin distance learning with students on April 14.  Distance learning resources are provided for all ages, elementary, middle, and high school and for special education students.  Learning plans include paper packets, video broadcasts, lessons/assignments on Blackboard, and web chats.  Although this will be overseen by the School System and the School Board, we'll continue to post updates as we receive them. Also, many of FCPS's grab and go meal sites are transitioning to curbside service starting Friday, March 27. Assistance from a Distance As Fairfax County continues to respond to COVID-19, a number of key government services are available online so you can still conduct business. A Message about INOVA Mount Vernon Testing We have been in touch with Inova and they are continuing efforts to provide additional COVID-19 medical symptom screening and testing. Please keep in mind that individuals who are concerned that they have symptoms of COVID-19 are encouraged to contact their regular healthcare provider to determine if medical evaluation is needed.   Testing is available for those who meet clinical criteria across the Inova Health System, including Inova Mount Vernon Hospital. However, if it is not an emergencyplease seek advice from your regular healthcare provider or Urgent Care Center to determine if a medical evaluation is needed. The Inova Mount Vernon Emergency Department is a resource for those individuals who are experiencing clinical symptoms of COVID-19 that include cough, fever and shortness of breath. All individuals will be screened for symptoms and testing is available for those who meet clinical criteria.   Any individual can visit the Respiratory Illness Clinics to be screened for symptoms and potentially tested for COVID-19. For more information on Inova's response to COVID-19 in Northern Virginia, and what to do if you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19, visit INOVA's COVID-19 webpage.  Federal Stimulus Bill Congressman Don Beyer is hosting a conference call today, March 27, 4:00 p.m., to give an overview of the business relief sections of the Federal coronavirus stimulus bill. He will talk and hopes to take live questions. Participate... Public Works PSA With the increased use of sanitizing wipes due to coronavirus, Fairfax County wants to remind you that you cannot flush wipes down the drain or the toilet! Even those that say "flushable" may block your wastewater pipe. Learn more... Fairfax County Public Works and FCPS created a journal to encourage kids to discovertheir backyards and neighborhoods while social distancing. Print a copy here...  Medicine Disposal Fairfax County Police Station take-back boxes for unused or expired medicines are closed until further notice. Do not flush unused medicine because they end up in rivers and streams. More information and alternative locations for disposal... REAL IDs The REAL ID enforcement deadline has been extended to October 1, 2021.  Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations ArtsFairfax has compiled a list of resources for local artists and arts organizations. Learn more...     How can I protect myself?   The best way to protect yourself and your community against the spread of COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to the virus by:   Practicing good hand hygiene, Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the using the inside of your elbow,  Avoiding close contact with people who are sick by practicing social distancing of six feet or more, Cleaning high-touch surfaces regularly, and Staying home if you feel sick. For more information on how to protect yourself, visit www.cdc.gov or www.vdh.virginia.gov. Resources Fairfax County Health Department  To view the number of cases in Fairfax County this page is updated at noon daily.  Visit the County site on COVID-19, Health Department Website, and see their FAQs.  Sign up for text message alerts: text FFXCOVID to 888777 Call the Health Department from 9:30 am - 9 pm weekdays and 9:30 am - 5 pm on weekends: 703-267-3511 Email: ffxcovid@fairfaxcounty.gov. This account will be staffed Monday through Friday, 8 am - 8 pm.  Inova has a helpful FAQ.  Mount Vernon District Meetings & Events Update Based on current Health Department guidance, below is an update on local events. Ides of Bark Dog Festival scheduled for March 29 has been postponed. New date to be announced. Hollin Hills Historic Overlay District (HOD) Community meeting scheduled for March 30 has been postponed. South County Site Specific Plan Amendment Task Force (SSPA) meeting scheduled for March 31 has been postponed. Mount Vernon Regional Historical Society (MVRHS) meeting on George Washington's slave family scheduled for April 16 has been postponed. Fairfax County Planning Commission meetings are cancelled until April 29. We will continue to update you as additional meetings and events are postponed or cancelled. Events will be updated to our website calendar as changes are made. As we have more information to share, my office and Fairfax County Government will continue to update our community. Thank you for your support and patience as we work to manage this challenging, complex, and rapidly evolving situation. We are all in this together. Take care of yourselves, your family and neighbors, and support our local businesses where possible. Look out for those who are elderly or infirm in your neighborhoods and let our office know if there are ways you or your neighbors need help. Respectfully yours in public service,   Dan Storck Supervisor, Mount Vernon District Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Visit our Website Mount Vernon District Office | 703-780-7518 MTVernon@fairfaxcounty.gov | FairfaxCounty.gov/MountVernon STAY CONNECTED  ‌  ‌  ‌

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