Coronavirus: What You Should Know
For more information on Coronavirus
School Closings For Coronavirus Concerns
Meals for Students
Metrobus Routes Serving DC Schools Meal Locations
LEA Sharing Library
Distance Learning Webinar Calendar
DC Citywide COVID-19 Information
Internet Access for Students
Coronavirus Factsheet
OSSE’s Distance Learning Resources for LEAs and Families
CDC Resources
Interim Guidance for Administrators
COVID-19 Graphics – Share on Social
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the risk of the coronavirus (COVID-19) coming to the District of Columbia?
There have been cases of community spread of COVID-19 reported in several states. Community spread means spread of an illness for which the source of infection is unknown. At this time, however, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus. There is no evidence of community spread in DC.
Q: What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?
A: Current symptoms have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
Q: Should I wear a facemask to prevent COVID-19?
A: The use of a facemask is not recommended for people who do not have any symptoms. Facemasks should only be used if recommended by healthcare professionals. If you are a health worker or taking care of someone infected with COVID-19 in close settings (e.g. at home) the use of a facemask is very important to protect others from the risk of getting infected.
Q: How can I protect myself from COVID-19?
A: There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. We recommend the following actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory disease:
· Stay home when you are sick
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick
· Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available
· Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a trash
· Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
· Get the flu vaccine
Q: Can someone who has had COVID-19 spread the illness to others?
A: Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. DC Health recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.
Q: How can people help stop stigma related to COVID-19?
A: Counter stigma by learning and sharing facts. Communicating the facts that viruses do not target specific racial or ethnic groups and how COVID-19 actually spreads can help stop the stigma.
Stigma hurts everyone by creating more fear or anger towards ordinary people instead of the disease that is causing the problem.
Q: Am I at risk for COVID-19 from a package or products shipping from China?
A: Currently there is no evidence to support the transmission of COVID-19 associated with imported goods.
Q: What is DC Health’s response to this situation?
A: DC Health is monitoring the situation closely and working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide the most up-to-date guidance and recommendations for healthcare providers, travelers, and other stakeholders. We are also working with other regional and federal partners to ensure that all necessary preparedness measures are in place. This is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation and DC Health will provide updated information as it becomes available.
Cleaning
Consider procuring adequate cleaning supplies before there is a shortage. Ensure you have access to deep cleaning vendors in the event you need to use their services.
Food Provision Information from Surrounding Health Departments
Consider options for possible home delivery of meals if schools are closed for extended periods.
Information from Surrounding Health Departments