May 28th Update:

Released: May 27, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

New Executive Order Takes Effect at Midnight

Effective at midnight tonight (the morning of May 28), Executive Order 79 will replace the existing Executive Order 72, removing Virginia’s mandates for physical distancing and capacity restrictions. This change comes as a result of the state’s rising vaccinations and falling COVID-19 rates. Organizations retain the ability to choose to require masks in their establishments, and individuals are still permitted to wear masks if they choose to. Anyone who is not yet vaccinated should wear masks in all settings. Masks are still required in K-12 settings, given low rates of vaccination among children. The federal government continues to require that masks are worn when using public transportation, including on buses, trains, and airplanes.

Alexandria Announces Modified Out of School Time School Year Recreation Program

Released: May 28, 2021

The City of Alexandria will offer a modified Out of School Time Program (OSTP) for elementary school aged children enrolled in kindergarten through fifth grade for the 2021-22 school year. The after-school recreation program is scheduled for August 23, 2021 through June 10, 2022, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. at the Charles Barrett; Charles Houston; Mount Vernon; Leonard “Chick” Armstrong; Nannie J. Lee; Patrick Henry; and William Ramsay recreation centers, and at the Ferdinand T. Day; John Adams; and Douglas MacArthur elementary schools. The program fee is $575 for the school year, or $295 with documentation for free/reduced priced school meals; $245 with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits; or $145 with Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) benefits.

To ensure the safety of participants and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, each program will follow all federal, state, and local guidelines and has limited capacity at this time.

A pre-registration period is provided for Alexandria residents who qualify for financial assistance. Applicants are required to verify eligibility by completing a pre-registration form. Beginning June 14, the form will be available online, and printed forms will be available for pickup and drop-off at the following locations (call the location to verify operating hours):

• Lee Center Registration and Reservation Office, 1108 Jefferson St., 703.746.5414
• Charles Houston Recreation Center, 901 Wythe St., 703.746.5552
• Mount Vernon Recreation Center, 2701 Commonwealth Ave., 703.746.5556
• Leonard “Chick” Armstrong Recreation Center, 25 West Reed Ave., 703.746.5554
• Patrick Henry Recreation Center, 4653 Taney Ave., 703.746.5557
• William Ramsay Recreation Center, 6560 Sanger Ave., 703.746.5558

Pre-registration eligibility forms must be submitted by Saturday, June 19. All eligible families submitting a form by Saturday, June 19 will be placed in a computerized lottery, randomly selecting the order of eligible applicants and generating a waitlist if needed. Selected applicants will be contacted beginning June 22 with additional information on program registration and must complete the enrollment process through the specified location by June 28.

Once the pre-registration eligibility process is complete, any remaining openings will be filled using general online-only registration beginning on Wednesday, June 30, at 9 a.m.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation for the eligibility form and more information about the Out of School Time Modified School Year Program.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact jamie.aylor@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.5411, Virginia Relay 711.

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Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 27th Update:

­­Released: May 26, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Uber and Lyft Offer Free Rides to Vaccine Appointments

Uber and Lyft have launched a new program to help Alexandrians with transportation challenges get vaccinated. Created out of a partnership with the White House, the COVID-19 vaccine ride program offers free rides or discounts for trips to and from a vaccination site. Uber offers customers who have booked a vaccine appointment a ride through the Uber app at no charge if the trip costs less than $25. Uber customers receive a $25 discount if the cost is more than $25. Lyft is offering free rides, up to $15 each way, to and from vaccination sites. Currently, Uber and Lyft are only offering free rides to vaccine sites listed on vaccines.gov. 

Correction to Alexandria COVID-19 Case Count

Today’s COVID-19 case dashboard shows a negative COVID-19 case count. This is the result of correcting the dashboard after a handful of COVID-19 cases did not meet the definition of a COVID-19 infection after originally testing positive using an antigen test. These individuals had confirmatory PCR tests that were negative within 48 hours of the original test. According to Virginia Department of Health guidelines, antigen positives that have a negative PCR within 48 hours are no longer counted as cases. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 26th Update:

Released: May 25, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Decline in Mental Health Services Use for Medicaid Recipients

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently published a report showing a significant drop in primary, preventive and mental health care visits by Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program recipients between March and October 2020, due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health care saw the most significant decline, and has been the slowest to rebound. The study shows a 34% decline in use of mental health services by children under the age of 19, and a 22% decrease for adults aged 19-64. Preliminary results from the study also indicate an increase in drug-related fatalities and a 13% decrease in substance use services. 

The City offers a Wellness Resource Guide to help anyone who is coping with stress, anxiety or burnout, and provides several 24-hour crisis hotlines and suicide prevention resources. If you or a loved one are in danger of self-harm, please dial 911 or go immediately to your nearest emergency room. Residents who are not eligible for Medicaid but need health insurance can apply during the Special Enrollment Period, which was recently extended to August 15. 

City to Host Town Hall on Anti-Asian Violence

The City of Alexandria invites the public to attend a virtual Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Town Hall, “Contextualizing Anti-Asian Violence in the Age of COVID,” on Thursday, May 27, at 7 p.m. The virtual panel discussion focuses on the wave of racial incidents and attacks directed toward Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The panel features Elisabeth Chan, Sue Jean Cho, John Min, and Alexander Purrugganan,  faculty members of Northern Virginia Community College. Their presentation will be followed by an interactive question and answer session. The presentation is free, but attendees must register. Chinese language interpretation will be available. This presentation underscores a resolution adopted by City Council on March 23 condemning hate, scapegoating and violence directed at Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Visit alexandriava.gov/HumanRights for more information. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 25th Update:

Released: May 24, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Job Fairs and Weekly Featured Jobs

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is hosting several “Meet the Employer” events: 

• Spring into Work is a two-day virtual event for all job seekers, which includes workshops and a hiring event. On May 25, participate in virtual workshops from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including Navigating a Virtual Platform, Resume Tips, and Putting Your Best Foot Forward, with guest presenters from Upwardly Global and Microsoft. Participate in a virtual hiring event on May 26, 3-6 p.m. Learn more about the event and register.
• WDC is also hosting several in-person Hospitality Industry Hiring Event sessions for open positions in Alexandria retail stores, hotels, and restaurants. Sessions will take place in front of City Hall (301 King St.) on Thursday, May 27, 9-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m., and Wednesday, June 9, 9-11 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. The events will follow the City's current COVID-19 regulations. View a flyer about the events in English and Spanish. Registration required.
• Meet virtually with hiring teams from Extended Stay America, Thursday, June 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. to learn about new positions and locations, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. 

WDC also offers coaching and financial assistance for job searches and career development. All resources take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 24th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Stay Current on COVID-19 Guidance

COVID-19 guidelines, mandates and recommendations evolve rapidly. To stay current on the changes and find reliable information, visit the Virginia Department of Health’s Frequently Asked Questions webpage. Some examples of new content include: mask guidance for fully vaccinated and unvaccinated (and others not fully vaccinated); mask guidance for employees; vaccine requirements for the workplace and other settings; mask requirements for kids at school; GETVAX; the science behind the updated mask guidance; and breakthrough cases. 

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between May 14 and May 20, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) administered first doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 944 people and fully vaccinated 2,003 people with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. During this same period, bilingual AHD staff have knocked on hundreds of doors, primarily in the West End and Arlandria, to offer vaccine appointments to those who have not had access because of transportation, technology and language barriers. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive 4,820 doses that will be used over the course of several weeks. This does not include additional vaccine doses federal programs provide directly to participating providers. AHD administers vaccines at clinic events and allocates the remaining doses to private providers. Appointments from AHD and private providers are listed on alexandriava.gov/Vaccines, with both scheduled and walk-in opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 20th Update:

Released: May 20, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

2021 Child Tax Credit Maximum Increased 

Beginning July 15, eligible families will receive a Child Tax Credit from the American Rescue Plan (ARP). Payments of up to $300 per child under 6 years of age and $250 per child ages 6 and older will be made automatically on or near the 15th of every month, by direct deposit, paper check, or debit card. No action will be required by most families and the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Department of Treasury will work through their partners to ensure families are aware of their eligibility. The 2021 annual Child Tax Credit was increased to a maximum of $3,600 per child under 6, and $3,000 per child ages 6-17 years. ARP is projected to lift more than five million children out of poverty this year, reducing child poverty by more than half.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 19th Update:

Released: May 19, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Federally Administered Vaccines Added to State Dashboard

Today, statewide COVID-19 vaccination numbers increased after federally administered immunizations were counted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that federal agencies or entities have administered approximately 5% of vaccinations in Virginia. Previously, these doses were not reported on the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) vaccine dashboard. The data is not currently available by jurisdiction, so the updates will not be visible in Alexandria’s dashboard. The VDH dashboard also now includes the percentage of the adult population who have received at least one dose of vaccine and are fully vaccinated, in addition to the vaccination rates for the entire population.   

Pfizer Vaccination Events for Ages 12 and Up

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is coordinating with Alexandria City Public Schools to host vaccine events for families of children in public and private schools on May 22 at George Washington Middle School (1005 Mount Vernon Ave.) and June 5 at Francis C. Hammond Middle School (4646 Seminary Rd.). AHD encourages everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to stop COVID-19. Appointments are required for the May 22 vaccine clinic. Walk-ups and appointments will be accepted at the June 5 event. To receive the vaccine, minors 17 years of age and under must have a parent, guardian, or adult aged 18 or older designated by the parent or guardian present onsite. To schedule, visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines or call 703.746.4988 Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

National EMS Week

The City recognizes its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers in celebration of the 46th annual National EMS Week, May 16-22. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the EMS division of the Alexandria Fire Department has worked closely with City partners and regional hospitals to provide emergency care to residents in need, while adjusting operations to protect staff and patients. New procedures were developed and staff were trained in new protocols for transporting possible COVID-19 patients; sanitizing before and after calls; providing care to patients while fully dressed in Personal Protective Equipment; and administering vaccines at City clinics. Residents are encouraged to support EMS workers by donating blood; learning lifesaving skills such as hands-only CPR and “Until Help Arrives” training on Save-A-Life Day, Thursday, May 20; and thanking an EMS worker for their service on EMS Recognition Day, Friday, May 21.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 12 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 18th Update:

Released: May 17, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

COVID-19 Vaccines Now Administered With Other Immunizations

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated clinical guidance, allowing  administration of COVID-19 vaccines along with other immunizations. Before this change, vaccine providers were advised against giving COVID-19 vaccine within 14 days of another vaccination. After reviewing the safety data, the CDC now permits all brands of COVID-19 vaccine to be given the same day as other routine vaccines for patients of all ages. The CDC hopes this will help boost rates of routine immunization. During the pandemic, childhood immunization, in particular, has seen a sharp decline, leaving children vulnerable to other diseases. The Alexandria Health Department has implemented the new guidance at vaccine clinics and is no longer recommending that people wait to be vaccinated if they have recently received another immunization.

Age and Target Vaccination Dashboard Updates

The City has updated its COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard to reflect the recent changes in vaccine eligibility and updated statewide goals for vaccination. On May 12, the CDC authorized the use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in adolescents aged 12 to 15. The dashboard includes the total number of residents who can be vaccinated, and now includes ages 12 and up, rather than ages 16 and up. The percent of Alexandrians partially and fully vaccinated appears to have decreased slightly because more Alexandrians are now eligible. The statewide vaccination goal has been set at 70% of residents, compared with Alexandria’s goal of vaccinating 80% of residents. Both targets are now reflected in the dashboard.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 17th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Mask Requirements and COVID-19 Restrictions Easing May 15 and May 28

Today, Governor Ralph Northam lifted the state’s universal mask requirement by no longer requiring that fully vaccinated individuals wear masks in all indoor public settings. This aligns the state’s indoor mask requirements with new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The updates to Virginia’s mask policy are reflected in amendments to Executive Order 72 and will become effective at midnight tonight, along with previously announced changes to alcohol sales and occupancy limits. Other restrictions related to physical distancing and venue capacity will be lifted on Friday, May 28, two weeks earlier than planned, when Executive Order 79 replaces Executive Order 72.

There are some instances when fully vaccinated people should continue to wear masks indoors, including on public transit, in health care facilities, and in congregate settings. Since vaccine clinics are considered health care settings, masks will be required by all patients, guests, volunteers, and staff, while inside and outside of vaccine sites. Businesses retain the ability to require masks in their establishments. Employees who work in certain business sectors—including restaurants, retail, fitness, personal care, and entertainment—must continue to wear masks unless they are fully vaccinated, per CDC guidance. The order also states that all K-12 students, teachers, staff and visitors must wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on school property, regardless of vaccination status. 

The City’s mask ordinance currently requires masks in indoor public places in Alexandria. A proposed amendment to the ordinance, to follow suit with state guidance, will be considered for adoption by City Council on Saturday, May 15.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between May 7 and May 13, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) administered first doses of COVID-19 vaccine to 625 people and fully vaccinated 1,937 people with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. During this same period, bilingual AHD staff have knocked on hundreds of doors, primarily in the West End and Arlandria, to offer vaccine appointments to those who have not had access because of transportation, technology and language barriers. 

Alexandria will receive 600 doses for next week, including first and second doses. AHD continues to use the vaccine supply received from last week for upcoming clinics. This does not include additional vaccine doses federal programs provide directly to participating providers. AHD administers vaccines at clinic events and allocates the remaining doses to private providers. Appointments from AHD and private providers are listed on alexandriava.gov/Vaccines, with both scheduled and walk-in opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

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May 13th Update:

Released: May 12, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

City of Alexandria Opens Pfizer Vaccination to Ages 12 and Up

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) and other providers in Alexandria are now offering COVID-19 vaccinations to residents ages 12 and older. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was previously approved for use in those aged 16 and older, and the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are currently only available for ages 18 and older.

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approved use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for ages 12-15 by accepting the recommendation of its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which met earlier in the day to review safety data for the vaccine in this age group. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the vaccine’s Emergency Use Authorization on Monday to include those aged 12-15. Pfizer is a two-dose vaccine, separated by a three-week time period.

Parents and guardians have a variety of options to get their children vaccinated, including student and family vaccination events, existing AHD vaccine clinics, and through various private providers in Alexandria. Minors are not able to consent to immunizations, so a parent or guardian must consent either in advance or at the vaccination site, depending on the provider.

Student and Family Events: AHD is working with Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) and Alexandria’s private schools to ensure that vaccines are widely available to students. In addition to ongoing family and student educational efforts, AHD is coordinating with ACPS to host vaccine events for both public and private school families. A parent or guardian must provide consent for children aged 12-17 by filling out one of the appointment scheduling links below. If the form is completed by a parent prior to the event, any responsible adult may bring the child to their appointment. Additionally, walk-up appointments will be accepted at the June 5 event, but a parent or guardian must accompany their child to provide consent on site. 

• Pfizer Vaccine (First Dose, Ages 12+)
  Saturday, May 22
  Hours: 1-3:30 p.m.
  Provider: Alexandria Health Department
  Location: George Washington Middle School, 1005 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
  Schedule Now -- By Appointment Only

• Pfizer Vaccine (First Dose, Ages 12+)
  Saturday, June 5
  Hours: 1-3:30 p.m.
  Provider: Alexandria Health Department
  Location: Francis Hammond Middle School, 4646 Seminary Rd, Alexandria, VA 22304
  Schedule Now -- Appointments and Walk-ins Accepted
   

AHD Vaccine Clinics: Parents and guardians can also find vaccines for ages 12 and up at other AHD events. Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to find appointments and walk-in opportunities. 

Additional Providers: Some pediatric practices in Alexandria are working with AHD to administer vaccines for adolescents ages 12 and older. Please contact these providers directly to get your child vaccinated. Additional providers such as pharmacies can be found at vaccines.gov.

• Provider: Van Dorn Pediatrics
  Location: 2500 N. Van Dorn St., # 102, Alexandria, VA 22302
  Contact: 703.933.0555

• Provider: Hispanic American Pediatric Associates
  Location: 5130 Duke St., Suite 7, Alexandria, VA 22304
  Contact: 703.751.2021

AHD recommends that everyone ages 12 and over receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccines are safe, effective and free. Get vaccinated to protect our families, schools and the community from COVID-19. No pre-registration, ID or insurance is required.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to learn more and find a vaccine today.

For support finding a vaccine, contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

For media inquiries only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov and 703.746.4914.

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City Hall Walk-in Payment Returns to Normal Hours

Effective Monday, May 17, in-person service hours for walk-in payments and tax assistance at City Hall will return to normal pre-COVID hours of operations: Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contactless options include payment via an outside dropbox on the Royal Street side of City Hall; by credit card or eCheck at alexandriava.gov/Payments; and by mail for most payments. For more information about how to make payments and contact staff with questions, visit alexandriava.gov/Payments or by phone at 703.746.4800 weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries for City of Alexandria residents at two drive-through sites on Saturday, May 15, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive via Dawes Ave.). Per college policy, if they close for any reason, such as inclement weather, the food distribution will be canceled. To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up service is reserved for residents without personal vehicles. Customers who participate in walk-up service should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Customers with vehicles should use the drive-through option. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 12th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and getting vaccinated. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Practice Gratitude for Wellness

Gratitude is an important component of resilience because it can generate feelings of positivity during times of uncertainty and stress. Practicing gratitude, by appreciating the positive aspects of daily life, has been shown in studies to promote optimism and a sense of wellness. The simple act of saying “thank you” can change the mindset of the person saying it as well as the recipient. Techniques for practicing gratitude can include making a list of the things you are grateful for; telling people that you appreciate them; and giving to others through volunteering. If the stresses of life become overwhelming, take a break by going for a walk or running an errand to refresh your mindset, or start to plan for life when the pandemic is over. The City provides a COVID-19 Wellness Resource Guide to provide more tips for addressing heightened stress and anxiety caused by the uncertainty of the pandemic. 

FDA Authorizes Pfizer Vaccine for Children Ages 12-15

Yesterday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to include ages 12 to 15. As the only vaccine authorized for those under 18, Pfizer’s EUA previously covered ages 16 and older.  The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) must receive additional federal approval before administering vaccines to youth in this age group. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is expected to meet on Wednesday, May 12 to discuss the FDA's action and make a recommendation to the CDC. Providers in Alexandria cannot begin offering the vaccine to those aged 12 to 15 without CDC approval. AHD has been planning for the expansion of vaccine availability to this age group, including coordination with schools and pediatricians. Learn more about vaccines and find vaccine clinics online at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines.

Vaccine Second Dose Update

When receiving a two-dose vaccine, such as Moderna or Pfizer, you will be contacted by the provider that administered the first dose to schedule your appointment for the second dose. The Virginia Department of Health recently announced that it is no longer mandatory to schedule the second dose with the original provider as long as the same vaccine type is administered. For those who received their first dose but have not scheduled an appointment for the second dose, visit vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 800.VAX.IN.VA (800.829.4682) to make the second appointment. Be sure to bring your vaccination card to ensure that you receive the correct second dose.   

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) offers several workshops to help residents train and prepare for employment, including networking skills, transferable skills and breaking into cybersecurity for youth. WDC also offers coaching and financial assistance for job searches and career development. All resources take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 10th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between April 30 and May 6, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) administered first doses to 951 people and fully vaccinated 944 people with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week.

Alexandria will receive 8,610 doses for next week, including first and second doses. This does not include additional vaccine doses federal programs provide directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD administers vaccines at clinic events and allocates the remaining doses to private providers. Appointments from AHD and private providers are listed on alexandriava.gov/Vaccines, with both scheduled and walk-in opportunities.

COVID-19 Restrictions May Ease on June 15

Yesterday Governor Ralph Northam announced a plan to lift capacity restrictions and physical distancing requirements on June 15 if case and vaccination numbers continue to trend positively. The state will also continue to evaluate mask guidance. The Governor cited the reason for the possible changes as the state’s decreasing number of COVID-19 cases and vaccine progress. In Alexandria, the 7-day moving average for cases is slightly more than 12 cases daily, which is about the same as September and early October 2020. Currently, 36% of Alexandrians ages 16 or older are fully vaccinated and nearly 48% of the eligible population have received at least one dose. 

Although these numbers are encouraging and represent a huge step in protecting residents, AHD urges Alexandrians to remain vigilant. COVID-19 and the more transmissible variants are still widespread in the community and represent a danger, particularly to the more than half the population who are not vaccinated. AHD urges all residents to find the next available vaccine clinic at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines or by calling 703.746.4988.

New Mobile Curative Testing Van

Beginning Monday, May 10, the Curative COVID-19 Testing Kiosk at Leonard “Chick” Armstrong Recreation Center (25 W. Reed Ave.) will be replaced by a mobile Curative testing van to offer the ability to access neighborhoods in need. The mobile testing van will be primarily located near Four Mile Run Farmers Market (4109 Vernon Ave.) Mondays-Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m-1 p.m. The van will operate on Saturdays at other locations and hours based upon need. Visit curative.com to pre-register for a COVID-19 test. 

Getting tested gives you the power to stop the spread of COVID-19 to friends and loved ones. Testing is available through many providers in Alexandria, whether or not you have insurance. View the City’s Get Tested webpage for details about testing options in Alexandria.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

May 7th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Provide Input on Use of American Rescue Plan Act Funding

The City is seeking community input regarding the use of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through a survey that is available in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic. Residents, businesses and community organizations are asked to provide feedback on a list of potential programs and projects being considered for the funding, or propose new projects. The City will host virtual meetings on Saturday, May 8 at 10 a.m. and Monday, May 10 at 7 p.m. to review the funding guidelines and discuss project proposals. The input will be used to inform a spending plan, and the deadline to provide feedback is Thursday, May 13. For more information and multilingual materials, visit alexandriava.gov/AmericanRescuePlan.

Resilience Week Virginia 2021

Building resilience helps individuals and communities bounce back from difficult experiences, like the current health crisis. During Resilience Week Virginia, the City is sharing ideas and resources to help build resilience in our personal lives, families, work lives and community. A flyer is available in English and Spanish that contains resources and activity ideas, as well as virtual events being hosted by organizations across Virginia.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 6th Update:

Released: May 5, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Employer Tax Credits for Employees Who Get Vaccinated

The America Rescue Plan Act (ARP) includes a tax credit for businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 500 employees that offer paid sick leave to employees who get vaccinated. The tax credit will provide up to $511 per day of paid sick leave offered up to 80 hours between April 1 and September 30, 2021. This allows employees the time they need to get vaccinated and recover from any side effects at no cost to the employers. The Internal Revenue Service offers an ARP tax credit factsheet for employers that specifies who is eligible, which tax credits can be claimed, the amount of the tax credits and how they are calculated, and instructions for how to submit a claim.

Celebrate Public Service

Public Service Recognition Week, taking place through May 8, honors the people who serve our communities as federal, state and local government employees. Public service is vital to our nation, especially during times of crisis. The talented, diverse staff of the City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department are proud to serve our community. We are dedicated to the safety and dignity of every person, and committed to doing our part in continuing to meet the many challenges we face today, while preparing our community for a post-pandemic future. For more information, visit psrw.ourpublicservice.org.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 5th Update:

Released: May 4, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Scheduled and Walk-in Vaccine Appointments Available

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) and private providers are currently offering open vaccine scheduling for COVID-19 vaccine at multiple locations in Alexandria. Some locations are offering walk-in opportunities. Vaccines are free of charge and available to everyone ages 16 and up. Pfizer is the only vaccine currently authorized for use on people 16-17 years of age. AHD recommends receiving the first vaccine available and does not endorse one vaccine manufacturer over another. After your first dose, you will be contacted by the provider to schedule your second dose appointment, as necessary. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, free and they can save your life. When enough people get vaccinated, we can get back to normal. For a list of walk-in opportunities or to schedule an appointment, visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines.

State Department and TSA Travel Updates

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory strongly recommending that all U.S. residents reconsider travel abroad, due to the high risk of exposure to COVID-19. Travel advisories to specific countries will be updated to accurately reflect the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which factor in logistical issues within a given country, such as testing availability. The update has resulted in approximately 80% of countries worldwide being identified as “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” People who intend to travel internationally are encouraged to visit the Travel Advisory webpage for the latest information by country. Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has extended the mask requirement for all aspects of travel through September 13. All travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, are required by the CDC to wear a face mask, maintain physical distance, and wash their hands or use hand sanitizer in all stages of transit, which is consistent with CDC guidelines. Commuters and travelers are encouraged to visit the TSA and CDC websites before they travel. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 4th Update:

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

COVID-19 Vaccines Town Hall on May 4

The Virginia Department of Health will host a live broadcast Town Hall on May 4, from 7 to 8 p.m. The program will feature in-depth discussion about COVID-19 vaccines and offer a forum to ask questions about the vaccines and the next steps in the vaccine roll out. Panelists include Virginia State Health Commissioner Dr. Norm Oliver and State Vaccine Coordinator Dr. Danny Avula, as well as other academic, medical, and public health experts. Richmond ABC News affiliate WRIC8 will host the event, moderate the discussion, and receive questions submitted via news@wric.com or posted on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #VaccinateVirginia. 

Donate Blood 

Inova Blood Donor Services is asking residents to consider donating blood, as the need for blood is constant and blood banks are anticipating an increase in the need for blood due to the resumption of elective surgeries. During the month of May, Inova will be hosting blood drives at various locations throughout Alexandria. Inova Donor Centers and blood drives take extra precautions to ensure the health and safety of donors, volunteers and staff. Blood donation amenities are professionally cleaned and disinfected regularly. All staff receive temperature checks twice daily, are required to wear masks at all times within clinic areas, and precautions are in place to ensure physical distance is maintained. Every donor receives additional screening for COVID-19. Anyone who has received the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson’s Jansen vaccine may donate immediately, as long as they are not experiencing any symptoms. Donors may only give blood if they are feeling healthy and well on the day of their donation. 

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is participating in an Industry Insider Session: Breaking into Cybersecurity for Youth, May 19, 5-6:30 p.m for ages 16-17 who are interested in breaking into the Cybersecurity and IT/Healthcare fields. Several workshops are available to help residents train and prepare for employment, including mastering the job interview and preparing for a virtual job fair. WDC also offers coaching and financial assistance for job searches and career development. All resources take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.    

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

May 3rd Update:

Released: April 30, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between April 23 and April 29, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) administered first doses to 2,342 people and fully vaccinated 1,999 people with a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week. 

Alexandria will receive 11,610 doses for next week, including first and second doses. This does not include additional vaccine doses federal programs provide directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD administers vaccines at clinic events and allocates the remaining doses to private providers. Appointments from AHD and private providers are listed on alexandriava.gov/Vaccines, with both scheduled and walk-in opportunities.   

Clerk of the Circuit Court Resumes Walk-in Services

Effective Monday, May 3, the offices of the Alexandria Clerk of the Circuit Court will reopen for walk-in services in addition to other operational changes. Appointments will no longer be required to conduct business at the counters in Room 307 of the Alexandria Courthouse (520 King St.). The Clerk’s office will no longer be accepting pleadings, copy requests, or filings of any kind by email. Filings may be made in-person at the Courthouse counters; using the Clerk of Circuit Court drop box at the courthouse; or by mail. The Judges’ Chambers’ email address  will also be deactivated. All courtesy copies should now be hand-delivered to the Circuit Court Judges’ Chambers drop box located on the 4th floor of the Courthouse, rather than the Clerk of the Circuit Court drop box in the Courthouse vestibule, which will delay receipt of documents to Judges’ Chambers.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Vaccination charts include total doses administered across all facilities, the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and weekly doses administered. Vaccination charts are available with definitions and data source information at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

 

April 30th Update:

 

­­Released: April 29, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

 

Updated Executive Order 72

Governor Northam amended the mask requirements in Executive Order 72 to align with current and future CDC guidance. The most recent CDC guidance provides Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People and states that people who are fully vaccinated do not need to wear masks outdoors, except in certain crowded settings. Risk is increased when there is a decreased ability to maintain physical distance. The revision also increases the limit on spectators at outdoor recreational sporting events from 500 to 1,000 individuals. AHD notes that community members should continue to be mindful of the potential risks involved in various activities and take appropriate precautions.

 

Vaccination Dashboard Updates

The City has updated the COVID-19 Vaccination dashboard to include a new chart on the “Trends” tab showing the weekly vaccine doses administered and the weekly vaccine doses by manufacturer Both charts are display partially and fully vaccinated doses. Partially vaccinated is defined as the total number or percent of people who received the first dose of a two-dose vaccine, such as the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine Fully vaccinated is defined as the total number or percent of people who completed the recommended series of a given vaccine product, which could include both doses of the two-dose Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson’s Jansen COVID-19 vaccine.

 

CDC Emphasizes Importance of Second Dose

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) published updated guidance highlights the need for everyone who has received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines to get a second shot for the most protection. The vaccines are not interchangeable, so the manufacturer of the second dose should be the same as the first. Anyone who experienced side effects from the first dose should still get their second dose unless otherwise advised by a vaccine provider or health care provider. Timing of the second dose varies between manufacturers, with some flexibility about how long after the first dose was administered, but neither vaccine should be administered early. Everyone should receive a vaccination card when they receive their first dose of vaccine. Bring your vaccination card to your second dose appointment to ensure that you receive the correct vaccine. Regardless of the manufacturer, or whether your vaccine requires one or two doses, everyone is considered fully vaccinated with maximum protection two weeks after their final dose.  

 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

 

April 29th Update:

Released: April 28, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Restaurants and Food Service Businesses Encouraged to Register for Federal Grant Program

The Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that registration for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) will begin Friday, April 30 at 9 a.m., and will begin accepting applications on Monday, May 3, at noon. For the first 21 days that the program is open, the SBA will prioritize funding applications from businesses owned and controlled by women, veterans, and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. All eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications as soon as the portal opens. Following the 21 days, all eligible applications will be funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Online applications will remain open to any eligible establishment until all funds are exhausted. 

The program provides funding to help restaurants and other eligible food service businesses keep their doors open. This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses no later than March 11, 2023. Learn more about RRF and how to apply. The Alexandria Small Business Development Center is available to answer questions and assist Alexandria businesses as they apply for these funds.

Memorial Recognizes Residents Lost to COVID-19

Alexandria residents can recognize, honor, and mourn family members, friends, and neighbors who have died as a result of COVID-19 at a temporary memorial in Rivergate Park, at the base of Madison Street on Alexandria’s waterfront. The memorial is titled “Alexandria Remembrance: With love, we remember our friends and neighbors lost to COVID-19” and will remain on display until June 21.

Each white flag on display recognizes an Alexandria resident who died of COVID-19. As of April 22, 133 Alexandria residents have died of COVID-19. Flags will be added and signage at the site will be updated if additional residents succumb to the virus. Family members are invited to write a message or the name of the loved one they have lost on a flag. To inscribe a flag or receive more information, please email parkplanninggroup@alexandriava.gov.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 28th Update:

­­Released: April 27, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

CDC Provides Guidance Updates 

Today, the CDC has released updated guidance on how to evaluate the risk levels of community and social activities. When choosing safer activities, AHD recommends considering the level of COVID-19 transmission in our community, the number of people participating in the activity, and the location of the activity. Outdoor visits and activities are safer than indoor activities. The guidance highlights that fully vaccinated people are at much lower risk from COVID-19, and fully vaccinated people can participate in some indoor events without much risk. 

Additionally, the CDC provided guidance for those who have been fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated people who are exposed to COVID-19 no longer need to quarantine and are no longer restricted from work as long as they have no symptoms. Those who are fully vaccinated who have not been exposed to COVID-19 and have no symptoms may be exempt from routine testing. The CDC emphasizes the importance for those who are fully vaccinated but immune-compromised to consult with their healthcare provider about these recommendations.

Coping with COVID-19 Burnout

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, managing mental health is critical to survive the pandemic. Avoid hitting a wall of COVID-19 burnout by incorporating tips like changing scenery; identifying activities that help you recharge and incorporating them into your daily schedule; and giving yourself permission to have an occasional “off day.” Build your resilience so you can recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change. Build resilience by prioritizing relationships or joining a group; finding activities that foster wellness; embracing change; and keeping things in perspective. The City offers a Wellness Resource Guide to help anyone who is coping with stress, anxiety or burnout and several 24-hour crisis hotlines and suicide prevention resources. If you or a loved one are in danger of self-harm, please dial 911 or go immediately to your nearest emergency room.     

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Note: Updated data for April 27 is not currently available from the Virginia Department of Health. The charts below reflect the most currently available data for April 26.

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 27th Update:

Released: April 26, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and scheduling a vaccination appointment. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Variants of Concern Dashboard

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has created a new dashboard to track variants of concern. Multiple variants of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that cause COVID-19 have been reported in Virginia and throughout the U.S. and the world. Variants that are determined to spread more easily and increase the risk of severe illness are categorized as variants of concern. The VDH Variants of Concern dashboard tracks the number of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and fatalities caused by variants of concern in Virginia. The dashboard shows known cases by region and health district where the patient lives, and includes demographic information such as age group, ethnicity, race, and sex. Individuals infected with two different variants will be listed for each variant. 

Job Fair, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the flyer of featured employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is participating in a Virginia statewide virtual hiring event, May 4, 1-4 p.m. WDC also has several workshops coming up to help residents train and prepare for employment, including resume building skills and job searching skills. WDC also offers coaching and financial assistance for job searches and career development. All resources take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 26th Update:

The Alexandria Health Department (AHD) will resume administering the COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Johnson & Johnson following a determination by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that the recommended pause should be lifted in the United States. In accordance with this guidance, the Virginia Department of Health has cleared providers across the Commonwealth to resume administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine immediately.

 

AHD will offer appointments to receive Johnson & Johnson vaccines at clinics taking place in the coming weeks. When scheduling a vaccine appointment through AHD, the vaccine options available at each vaccination event are clearly labeled so that individuals may schedule their appointment according to their preferences. AHD recommends receiving the first vaccine available and does not endorse one vaccine manufacturer over another. Anyone who was previously scheduled to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and has not yet rescheduled their appointment will be able to do so using the appointment token they last received. 

 

The FDA and CDC recommended a pause in the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine after  six people who received the vaccine developed a rare and severe disorder involving blood clots. After reviewing information collected by the CDC about cases with a possible connection to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended lifting the pause on its use. The FDA and CDC determined that the benefits of using Johnson & Johnson outweigh the potential risks and have confidence that the vaccine is effective in preventing COVID-19. 

 

As of April 21, almost 8 million people have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. After a full review of reported cases, a rare type of blood clotting disorder called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) was identified in 15 female recipients of the vaccine. The available data suggests that the chance of TTS occurring is extremely low. The FDA and CDC will continue to investigate the risk and monitor vaccine recipients.  

Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines for updates and guidance from the Alexandria Health Department and to pre-register for vaccine.

 

For support pre-registering for vaccine, contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.  For media inquiries only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov and 703.746.4914. 

# # #

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between April 16 and April 22, the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) administered first doses to 1,474 people and fully vaccinated 2,137 people with a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week. 

Alexandria will receive 12,650 doses for next week, including first and second doses. This does not include additional vaccine doses federal programs provide directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD provides vaccines at large events and allocates the remaining doses to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments for both their own vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria. Appointments are offered by phone or email to people from the existing pre-registration list. Other private providers not being scheduled by AHD are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

New Vaccine Demographic Dashboard

The City’s COVID-19 Demographic Dashboard has been updated to include the demographics of Alexandria residents who have been fully vaccinated. The bar graph shows the percent of vaccine administration compared to the percent of the population by age, race or ethnicity and sex. The information in this dashboard is based upon information provided by the patient and includes a significant amount of unreported instances of race and ethnicity. Doses administered by federal agencies or outside of Virginia are not included in this dashboard. 

Residents ages 65 and over received a higher percentage of the total vaccinations because of the Phase 1 prioritization to protect those at highest risk of severe disease and death from COVID-19. AHD partners worked closely with senior serving organizations in Alexandria to conduct proactive outreach to older adults, resulting in more than 75% of residents ages 65 and over having received at least their first dose. The dashboard demonstrates the difficulty in fully assessing the disparity in vaccination rates among different racial and ethnic groups due to a significant amount of unreported data. AHD is working with community partners such as non-profits, faith-based organizations, advocacy groups, and businesses to address hesitancy and access barriers to vaccination within communities of color. AHD is also expanding outreach and appointment-booking efforts in those communities, along with a mobile vaccine unit to bring vaccines directly to neighborhoods that have been historically underserved or marginalized. 

Help Spread the Word About Getting Vaccinated

The City has developed a series of materials to help spread the word about getting vaccinated. With all of Virginia now in Phase 2 of the vaccine rollout, everyone ages 16 years and older is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. A series of multilingual signs that can be downloaded and shared electronically, or printed and posted in offices and public spaces, include Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine in Alexandria, By Appointment Only, #VAX2NORMAL, and Get Vaccinated: End the Pandemic The City’s Multilingual Resource Catalog offers a large selection of signs, posters, flyers, and other materials that convey important information about COVID-19 for downloaded or printing, or copies can be requested.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

April 23rd Update:

Released: April 22, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and pre-registering to receive the vaccine. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Updates to Executive Order 72

Governor Ralph Northam amended Executive Order 72 (EO 72), which contains COVID-19 restrictions. One set of amendments takes effect immediately and a second set will be effective May 15.

EO 72 changes taking effect immediately:

• Entertainment venues: Bar service can resume as long as groups maintain 6 feet of distance between them. Distancing requirements for entertainment and public amusement venues, swimming pool seating, graduations, and recreational sporting events changed from ten feet for spectators to six feet. Musicians are allowed to remove their masks when playing brass and wind instruments and the prohibition on karaoke has been lifted.
• Recreational sporting events: The maximum size of starting groups in outdoor races and marathons increased from 50 up to no more than 100.
• Educational settings: Guidance for school performances has been defined as capacity of 30% or no more than 500 indoors or 1,000 outdoors. Groups of students, teachers, administrators or other school staff can gather for educational instruction. Other school gatherings, like club meetings and dances, are still required to follow social gathering restrictions.
• Personal care and leisure: The requirement for personal care and personal grooming studios to maintain appointment logs and contact information has been removed, along with the prohibition on splash pads, hot tubs, saunas, etc.

EO 72 changes taking effect May 15:

• Social gatherings: The maximum number of individuals permitted in a social gathering will increase to 100 people for indoor settings and 250 people for outdoor settings. Social gatherings are currently limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
• Entertainment venues: Indoor entertainment and public amusement venues will be able to operate at 50% capacity or 1,000 people, up from 30% capacity or 500 people. Outdoor venues will be able to operate at 50% capacity, up from 30%, with no specific cap on the number of attendees.
• Recreational sporting events: The number of spectators allowed at indoor recreational sporting events will increase from 100 to 250 spectators or 50% capacity, whichever is less. Outdoor recreational sporting events will increase from 500 to 1,000 people or 50% capacity, whichever is less.
• Alcohol sales: Restaurants may return to selling alcohol after midnight, and dining room closures will no longer be required between midnight and 5 a.m.

AHD notes that while many restrictions are being lifted, there is still significant community spread in Alexandria and the City’s mask ordinance remains in effect. Residents should continue to take precautions against COVID-19 and pre-register to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. 

Now Scheduling for Vaccine Appointments

Everyone eligible in Phase 1a, 1b, or 1c who pre-registered prior to April 19 should have received an invitation to schedule a vaccine appointment. If you have not received an invitation to schedule, first check your spam folder. If you have not been contacted, please complete this form. Provide the exact name and email address or phone number you used to pre-register, and your date of birth. 

Everyone who pre-registered by April 5 as part of Phase 2, which is any resident ages 16 and up who is not eligible in Phase 1, has been contacted for an appointment. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



One COVID-19 death was removed from Alexandria’s count today due to a misreport. VDH reviews vital records and death certificate data daily. It was determined that one person was a resident of another jurisdiction and has been reallocated from Alexandria’s count to the correct jurisdiction.

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

April 22nd Update:

­­Released: April 21, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and pre-registering to receive the vaccine. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries for City of Alexandria residents at two drive-through sites on Saturday, April 24, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive via Dawes Ave.). Per college policy, if they close for any reason, such as inclement weather, the food distribution will be canceled. To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up service is reserved for residents without personal vehicles. Customers who participate in walk-up service should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Customers with vehicles should use the drive-through option. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents. 

Funding Available for Restaurants

The American Rescue Plan Act established the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) to provide funding to help restaurants and other eligible businesses keep their doors open. This program will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business and no more than $5 million per physical location. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses no later than March 11, 2023. Learn more about RRF and how to apply at the Small Business Association. Learn more about additional financial relief resources for businesses in Alexandria.   

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

April 21st Update:

­Released: April 20, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and pre-registering to receive the vaccine. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Guidance for Social Gatherings

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued updated guidance about social gatherings. To decrease your chance of getting and spreading COVID-19, CDC recommends that you do not gather with people who do not live with you. Whether you have been vaccinated or not, attending social gatherings increases the risk of being exposed to the coronavirus. The CDC Personal and Social Activities webpage offers guidance for how to be safer in specific settings, including restaurants and bars, hosting gatherings and cook-outs, attending an event or gathering, using gyms or fitness centers, going to a nail salon, visiting a library, traveling overnight, and visiting parks. Whether vaccinated or not, consistently wearing a mask in public spaces, maintaining 6 feet of physical distance, and self-isolating if sick remain the best ways to slow the spread of COVID-19.      

Taking Medication Before COVID-19 Vaccination

Prepare for your COVID-19 vaccine appointment by understanding what medications you should or should not take before receiving the vaccine. The CDC recently updated their guidance on taking medications before getting vaccinated. You should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine if you have received another vaccine in the last 14 days. In addition, wait 14 days before getting any other type of vaccination, including a flu or shingles vaccine.

Taking over-the-counter medicine such as ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, or antihistamines to try to prevent side effects before your appointment is not recommended. However, if you regularly take these medications for underlying medical conditions or other reasons, you should keep taking them before being vaccinated. If you have questions about the medications that you are taking, talk to your doctor.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

April 20th Update:

Released: April 19, 2021

Help end the pandemic by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, washing your hands frequently, and pre-registering to receive the vaccine. Approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk.

Virginia Moves Into Phase 2

The Commonwealth of Virginia has now entered Phase 2 of the vaccine rollout. This morning, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management issued an emergency alert to all eligible mobile phones in the state to notify Virginians that everyone ages 16 and older is now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. An appointment is required, and AHD encourages everyone who lives or works in Alexandria to pre-register for vaccines. Vaccine supply has been increasing, but remains limited, so there may be a wait to schedule an appointment. 

Pfizer Vaccine Authorized for Ages 16-17

The Pfizer vaccine is currently the only COVID-19 vaccine authorized for use with people under 18. Please be sure to look for the Pfizer vaccine when scheduling appointments for individuals under 18. Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to pre-register for an appointment through AHD and their partners. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at their vaccination appointment. Appointments may also be available online through VaccineFinder with other providers. Assistance is available by phone at 877.VAX.IN.VA (877.829.4682) in English, Spanish, American Sign Language, and more than 100 additional languages.

Weekly Featured Jobs and Resources

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is hosting a “Meet the Employer” virtual hiring event with Smoothstack IT from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 27. WDC offers workshops and resources to help residents train and prepare for employment. “SkillUp” is a free resource for residents who have been laid off or are looking for a career change with more than 5,000 online training courses. WDC also offers coaching and financial assistance for job searches and career development. All resources take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

 

April 19th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Vaccine Scheduling Update

Everyone eligible in Phase 1a, 1b, or 1c, who pre-registered prior to April 10, should have received an invitation to schedule a vaccine appointment. If you have not received an invitation to schedule, first check your spam folder. Please complete this form if you have not been contacted. Provide the exact name and email address, or phone number, used to pre-register and your date of birth.

Everyone who pre-registered by February 26 as part of Phase 2, which is any resident ages 16 and up who is not eligible in Phase 1, has been contacted for an appointment. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

During Alexandria Health Department (AHD) vaccine clinics between April 9 and April 15: 1,606 people were partially vaccinated with a first dose and 4,146 people were fully vaccinated with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or with the single required dose of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week. 

Alexandria will receive 8,110 doses for next week, including first and second doses. This does not include additional vaccine supplies from federal programs provided directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD uses the doses received at their large vaccine events and allocates the rest to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments, by phone or email, for their vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

COVID-19 Vaccination Partner Use of Health Insurance

The federal government is providing all COVID-19 vaccines free of charge to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines what providers are and are not allowed to charge.

COVID-19 vaccination providers cannot:

• Charge you for the vaccine or for the balance of a vaccine bill not paid by insurance
• Charge you directly for any administration fees, copays, or coinsurance
• Deny vaccination to anyone who does not have health insurance coverage, is underinsured, or is out of network
• Charge an office visit or other fee to the recipient if the only service provided is a COVID-19 vaccination
• Require additional services in order for a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 vaccination providers can:

• Collect a vaccine administration fee from the recipient’s insurance, Medicare, Medicaid
• Seek reimbursement from the federal government for vaccinating an uninsured person

If proof of health insurance is requested at the time of vaccination, it should only be used to collect the vaccine administration fee. The vaccine recipient should not be charged or pay any fees associated with receiving the vaccine.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

 

 

April 15th Update:

Released: April 14, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Johnson & Johnson Vaccination Appointment Update

Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is pausing the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Those who had Johnson & Johnson appointments with AHD scheduled on Thursday, April 15 can keep their appointment and receive the Moderna vaccine instead. Those with AHD appointments on Sunday, April 18 will receive the Pfizer vaccine. If you wish to cancel your appointment, please fill out this brief form so that someone else can be scheduled. If you choose to cancel your appointment, you will keep your place in line and can reschedule when additional appointments become available. If you have a Johnson & Johnson appointment with another provider, contact them directly to learn about your options.  

Warnings of Unauthorized Products

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued warning letters to two companies for selling mislabeled products that had not been approved or authorized for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. Allure Imports and About Mineral were cited for making misleading claims that their products mitigate, prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure COVID-19 in humans and animals. The FDA is actively monitoring companies that market products which claim to protect or treat COVID-19, and has issued 168 warning letters since March 2020 to discontinue product sales or face criminal prosecution. Consumers who encounter websites that may be illegally selling human or animal drugs, medical devices, biological products, foods, dietary supplements or cosmetics are encouraged to report them to the FDA.   

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 14th Update:

­­For Immediate Release: April 13, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Pause on Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

Today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a joint statement recommending a pause in the use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine out of an abundance of caution. To date, more than 6.8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine have been administered in the U.S., and there have been six reported cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals after receiving the vaccine. This safety concern has not been seen in other vaccines currently authorized for use in the U.S. According to the CDC, all six cases occurred among women between the ages of 18 and 48 with symptoms occurring 6 to 13 days after vaccination. The CDC recommends that adults who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine should contact a health care provider if they experience severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination. Individuals with upcoming appointments to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be contacted to either reschedule their appointment or receive a vaccine from a different manufacturer, based on available supplies.

Islamic Scholars Encourage COVID-19 Vaccines, Even During Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a time of prayer, reflection and fasting, has begun. According to most Islamic scholars, vaccine injections are not considered food or drink, and are permitted during fasting hours in the coming month. COVID-19 vaccines do not contain pork products, gelatin, animal products, or the live COVID-19 virus. The Minnesota Department of Health has developed a guide for “Staying Safer During Ramadan” to slow the spread of COVID-19, which includes multilingual videos and resources for those considering vaccination during the month.

Pre-register for a vaccine appointment online at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines and select “Pre-Register for Vaccine Waitlist.” Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 13th Update:

Released: April 12, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Study on Anxiety and Depression during Pandemic

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report indicating an increase in symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder and the use of mental health care in adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. A study conducted between August 2020 and February 2021 shows an increase of approximately 40% in symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder, predominantly in adults ages 18-29 with less than a high school education. Results included a 22-25% increase in adults taking prescription medication or receiving counseling, and an increase of about 10% in unmet need for mental health care. Feelings of fear, grief and isolation during the pandemic increase the risk of mental health problems. 

The City offers resources for a variety of topics, including managing stress and anxiety, multicultural mental health, resiliency for supervisors, and help to meet basic needs during the pandemic. The Virginia COPES non-crisis support line is available by phone or text at 877.349.6428, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 5 to 9 p.m. Support services are provided for anyone struggling with trauma, grief, or distress and community resources referral is available. The City also has several 24-hour crisis hotlines and suicide prevention resources. If you or a loved one are in danger of self-harm, please dial 911 or go immediately to your nearest emergency room.    

Hiring Event, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is hosting a virtual hiring event in partnership with Migration and Refugee Services of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington on April 28, 2-4 p.m. Registration is required for employers and job seekers. WDC also has several workshops coming up to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, networking skills, how to prepare for a virtual job fair, and how to apply for a federal job. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.   

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

April 12th Update:

­­For Immediate Release: April 12, 2021

Alexandria Health Department (AHD) has moved into Phase 2 of COVID-19 vaccinations, expanding eligibility to all residents ages 16 and over. Many pre-registered individuals have already received emails to schedule an appointment for as soon as this week. 

“We’re excited to offer vaccine appointments to more Alexandria residents and essential workers ahead of schedule,” said Acting Health Director Dr. Anne Gaddy. “This is a big step toward reaching herd immunity and protecting our community.”

In addition to mass vaccination clinics, AHD allocates vaccine to more than a dozen vaccinating partners, such as pharmacies and private medical practices, to increase local appointment capacity. Residents may be contacted directly by providers to schedule an appointment, and individuals can confirm the legitimacy of these emails by calling the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988. Residents may also be contacted by email from vaccinatevirginia@info.virginia.gov as part of a new Virginia Department of Health scheduling tool, called VASE.

While eligibility has expanded, appointment availability will continue to depend on vaccine supply and vaccinating all residents ages 16 and over may take several months. Those who qualify as Phase 1a, 1b, and 1c will receive prioritization for vaccination. All residents should pre-register at alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to be contacted for an appointment.

It is not yet known the exact percentage of vaccinated people needed to reach herd immunity, which is the point when enough people are protected that the virus can no longer spread effectively. AHD is aiming to vaccinate a minimum of 80% of Alexandria residents ages 16 and over. Currently, 20% of residents are fully vaccinated, with more than a third partially vaccinated.

Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to learn more, pre-register for vaccine, and view Alexandria’s vaccination progress. All residents are encouraged to pre-register now.

For support pre-registering for vaccine, contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov or 703.746.4914.

April 9th Update:

Released: April 8, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

UK Variant is Dominant Strain in the U.S.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced yesterday that the B.1.1.7 variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 has become the predominant strain in at least five regions of the United States. More than 27% of positive cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. are the B.1.1.7 variant, which was originally detected in the United Kingdom. B.1.1.7 has been categorized by the CDC as a variant of concern because there is evidence of an increase in transmissibility, at 50-70% more contagious than the wild-type strain; more severe disease, resulting in increased hospitalizations and deaths; increased resistance to treatment; and significant reduction in neutralization by antibodies developed from previous infection or vaccination. It is normal for coronaviruses to develop variants over time. The CDC “Variant Proportions in the U.S.” webpage provides details of the new and emerging variants present in the U.S. Residents are strongly urged to continue wearing masks when out in public settings, regardless of their vaccination status.    

Updated Data for Underlying Medical Conditions

The CDC has updated the list of underlying medical conditions with the most potential impact for severe illness for patients infected with COVID-19. Age is the biggest risk factor to severe illness, with more than 80% of COVID-19 related deaths in the U.S. occurring in patients ages 65 and older. The more chronic medical conditions a person has, the more likely they are to become severely ill if they become infected with COVID-19. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and chronic pulmonary disease were the most common comorbidities. While underlying medical conditions play a significant role in the severity of illness, nearly 30% of inpatients and almost 75% of outpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 had no comorbidities as defined in the study conducted.    

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 8th Update:

Released: April 7, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Now Scheduling: Phase 1 Appointments

AHD has attempted to contact and schedule vaccine appointments for all eligible individuals who pre-registered by April 6. Currently eligible groups include: 

• Phase 1a
• Ages 65+
• Ages 16-64 with certain existing medical conditions in all census tracts
• Frontline Essential Workers eligible in Phase 1b or Phase 1c

If you pre-registered before April 6, and have not been contacted by AHD, first check your email spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, fill out this brief form. AHD also encourages all residents who pre-registered to visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines and select “Update Pre-registration Record” to verify that your information is accurate, especially your employment information, including a valid street address (e.g. “4480 King St.”, not “same as home address”). Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries for City of Alexandria residents at two drive-through sites on Saturday, April 10, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive via Dawes Ave.). Per college policy, if they close for any reason, such as inclement weather, the food distribution will be canceled. To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up service is reserved for residents without personal vehicles. Customers who participate in walk-up service should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Customers with vehicles should use the drive-through option. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents.  

Updated Guidance for Cleaning Surfaces at Home

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidance on transmission of the COVID-19 virus by contact with surfaces, and cleaning and disinfecting the home. The CDC has determined that the coronavirus is primarily spread through exposure to airborne respiratory droplets carrying the virus. The risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 by contact with a contaminated surface or object is considered low. 

The CDC “Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home” webpage provides updated guidance about how to care for surfaces at home. Regular cleaning with soap and water will remove most virus particles on surfaces. Disinfect home surfaces when someone who lives there is sick, is at high-risk of becoming severely ill if exposed to the coronavirus, or if someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 has visited within the last 24 hours. High-touch surfaces should be cleaned regularly, especially after there have been visitors. Take steps to limit contamination in the home by asking unvaccinated visitors to wear masks, following guidance for fully vaccinated visitors, isolating sick individuals in the home, and frequently washing hands. Guidance for home care when someone in the household is sick has also been updated.     

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

April 6th Update:

­­For Immediate Release: April 5, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Lower Health Care Costs Available for Federal Marketplace Participants

As a result of funding from the America Rescue Plan (ARP), individuals receiving health care coverage through the Federal Marketplace, healthcare.gov, may be eligible to receive a tax credit lowering the cost of their monthly premiums up to $50 per person, or $85 per policy.  Many enrollees could pay as little as $10 per month for health care premiums. ARP expands the number of people eligible to save money on their health care coverage, which helps address racial inequities by expanding access to coverage and reducing costs. 

For those who would like to enroll or make changes to existing health care coverage through the Federal Marketplace, the Special Enrollment Period continues until May 15. The Virginia State Corporation Commission “ Information & Enrollment” webpage provides answers to frequently asked questions, including enrollment and eligibility information; health benefits and coverages; appeals, complaints and issues; small business health options program; and information for assisters and carriers. Information is also available in English, Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese, with translation services available on the Virginia Health Benefit Exchange hotline at 833.740.1364, or the Healthcare.gov hotline at 800.318.2596. Visit coverva.org/assistance for a list of options for in-person and phone assistance.  

Understanding the Differences Between COVID-19 Vaccines

The City and AHD are committed to providing resources to help residents make informed decisions about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, including the differences between brands of vaccine currently authorized for use. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend one vaccine over another. The CDC and AHD maintain that the best COVID-19 vaccine is the first one that is available to you, and advise against waiting for a specific brand.

Job Fair, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) has several workshops coming up to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, and how to prepare for a virtual job fair. Residents can also access free “ SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

April 5th Update:

City of Alexandria Moves into Phase 1c Vaccinations, Phase 2 to Begin by April 18

­­For Immediate Release: April 5, 2021

 

Alexandria Health Department (AHD) is now scheduling vaccine appointments for frontline essential workers in Phase 1c. After recent supply increases, everyone who pre-registered in Phase 1a and 1b as of March 30 has been contacted to schedule an appointment. Alexandria will move into Phase 2 by April 18 along with all jurisdictions in Virginia, and everyone ages 16 and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

 

At this time, AHD has enough vaccine supply to offer appointments to pre-registered individuals in Phase 1a, 1b, and 1c without further prioritization. All residents who want to receive a vaccine are encouraged to visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to pre-register or update their records.

 

Those in Phase 1 who have pre-registered before March 30 and have not received a message from AHD should first check their spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, please complete this form with the exact name and email address (or phone number) you used to pre-register, and your date of birth. If you are a frontline essential worker who registered before the date listed, please update your pre-registration record to ensure that your employment is listed accurately with a valid street address, such as “4480 King St.”, and not “same as home address.” AHD is still prioritizing appointments for those in Phase 1a and 1b in addition to the new appointment availability for Phase 1c. 

In the coming weeks, AHD will launch an updated appointment system to offer more choices for residents to receive vaccines in Phase 2. Everyone ages 16 and older will be able to make an appointment directly with pharmacies, grocery stores, and other providers without waiting for a call or email.

 

In Phase 2, AHD will continue focusing on the City’s most vulnerable and underserved communities, including residents with limited access to the technology and transportation needed to register for and receive the vaccine. Outreach efforts will be expanded in these communities in conjunction with mobile vaccine events in neighborhood spaces, such as houses of worship, local businesses, apartment complexes and recreation centers.

 

Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to learn more, pre-register for vaccine, and update your pre-registration record. All residents are encouraged to pre-register now.

For support pre-registering for vaccine, contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.

For media inquiries only, contact Natalie Talis, Population Health Manager, at natalie.talis@vdh.virginia.gov and 703.746.4914.

 

# # #

 

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Request to Update Vaccine Records

Governor Northam announced that Virginia will move into Phase 2 by mid-April, and AHD encourages all residents to update their vaccine pre-registration records in preparation. Vaccine availability and eligibility will expand in the coming weeks, and everyone who wants to receive a vaccine will have more access to options. Even if you are not currently eligible to receive a vaccine, please visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to pre-register or to update your record.

New Domestic Travel Guidance for Fully Vaccinated

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued updated guidance about domestic travel for people who are vaccinated. Vaccines are continuing to prove that they are safe and effective, and fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. Although vaccines do not offer 100% protection, the CDC has concluded that fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the United States by wearing a mask over the nose and mouth, staying 6 feet from others as much as possible, avoiding crowds, and washing hands often or using hand sanitizer. Fully vaccinated travelers only need to quarantine if they experience COVID-19 symptoms after a known exposure to someone with COVID-19. 

Weekly Vaccine Updates

During AHD vaccine clinics between March 26 and April 1: 2,193 people were partially vaccinated with a first dose and 3,052 people were fully vaccinated with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or with the single required dose of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week. 

Alexandria will receive a confirmed batch of 10,010 doses for next week, and is anticipating an additional 7,000 or more doses pending supply availability. This does not include additional vaccine supplies from federal programs provided directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD uses the doses received at their large vaccine events and allocates the rest to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments, by phone or email, for their vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

March 31st Update:

Released: March 30, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Celebrate the Holidays Safely

The City and AHD strongly urge residents to celebrate the holidays safely. Until everyone is vaccinated, family gatherings should minimize mixing of households and, when there is a mixing of households, should continue to use mitigation measures to reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) frequently updates guidance about how those who are fully vaccinated can protect those who aren’t. Fully vaccinated individuals can gather indoors with other vaccinated individuals or with unvaccinated members of one other household without masks, as long as no one is at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19, including persons over age 65 and those with certain underlying medical conditions. If gathering in homes, consider opening windows and doors to increase airflow; spacing seats out at the table to promote physical distancing; and not sharing food, plates, or utensils. To protect those who are not vaccinated, the CDC recommends continuing to wear a mask in public, and avoiding crowded places and large social gatherings, and travel. 

Changes to Executive Order 72 will take effect Thursday, April 1, which increases the limits of social gatherings to 50 individuals indoors, and 100 outdoors. Workplaces, educational settings, and religious services are not considered social gatherings. Religious services may continue to assemble with more than 50 individuals indoors, or 100 outdoors, provided that 6 feet of physical distancing is maintained at all times, including while seated; masks are worn at all times unless participating in a religious ritual; high-touch surfaces are disinfected frequently; and disposable items are used for any food or beverage that is distributed.   

Guidance about Animals and COVID-19

The CDC has provided updated information regarding animals and COVID-19. Several sanctuary and zoo animals, including big cats, non-human primates, and farm-raised minks, have tested positive for the coronavirus, most of which occurred after contact with people who had COVID-19. The CDC considers the risk of family pets becoming infected with COVID-19 low. However, a small number of pets have become infected, particularly dogs and cats, most of which were in close contact with people who were infected. The best way to prevent pets from getting sick with COVID-19 is to treat them as household family members and avoid close contact with individuals from outside the household. 

Pets who test positive for the virus should be isolated and treated at home. Most of the cases of pets testing positive have had mild symptoms and have fully recovered. The CDC’s Pets and Animals FAQ page provides further guidance. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.  



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

March 30th Update:

Released: March 29, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Eviction Moratorium Extended to June 30

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) moratorium on residential evictions to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, which was scheduled to expire March 31, has been extended to June 30. The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified underlying issues of housing insecurity for many Americans. Keeping people in their homes and out of congregate settings, like shelters, is a key step in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19. The moratorium temporarily halts evictions of covered persons for nonpayment of rent or housing. For more information about the moratorium and who is covered, visit the CDC COVID-19 website. Alexandria residents who have received eviction notices should call the Office of Housing at 703.746.4990 for assistance. Learn more about resources for renters, homeowners and landlords at alexandriava.gov/Housing.

Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines Proven 90% Effective

The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines both demonstrated approximately 95% efficacy in clinical trials. Efficacy is how well a vaccine works under ideal and controlled circumstances, but how a vaccine works in real-world conditions, or its effectiveness, is more important. Today, the CDC released a study showing that both vaccines are nearly as effective in real-world conditions as their efficacy in clinical trials. 

The study, conducted with almost 4,000 health care personnel, first responders, and other essential and frontline workers, shows that the vaccines offer significant protection in conditions with real exposure to COVID-19 in actual workplaces. The CDC monitored participants between December 2020 and March 2021, in 8 cities across the U.S. with weekly COVID-19 testing. Results indicate that Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were 90% effective in preventing COVID-19 infection for fully vaccinated workers. The results show that vaccines are one of the best ways to fight COVID-19 and end the pandemic. AHD encourages everyone to pre-register, to receive a vaccine when it becomes available to them, and to encourage their family members, friends and colleagues to get vaccinated.  

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) has several workshops coming up to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, job searching skills. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

March 29th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Two Additional COVID-19 Variants of Concern Found in Virginia

On March 25, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced the first cases of the SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, referred to as B.1.427 and B.1.429, that were found in COVID-19 tests collected between December 2020 and February 2021 from Virginia residents. The B.1.427 and B.1.429 variants first emerged in California in the summer of 2020, and are more contagious strains of COVID-19. Evidence suggests that infections with these variants do not cause more severe disease. However, more infectious forms of COVID-19 can lead to increased cases, which results in more hospitalizations and deaths. AHD urges residents to receive a vaccine when it becomes available to them and continue to follow steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, wash your hands, and disinfect surfaces.   

Weekly Vaccine Updates

During AHD vaccine clinics between March 19 and March 25, 2,673 people were partially vaccinated with a first dose and 859 people were fully vaccinated with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or with the single required dose of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine. AHD's vaccinating partners, which include pharmacies and private providers, administered the remainder of Alexandria's vaccine supply this past week. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive approximately 11,040 doses, which are a mix of first and second doses and an increase of 3,340 doses compared to the current week. This does not include additional vaccine supplies from federal programs provided directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD uses the doses received at their large vaccine events and allocates the rest to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments, by phone or email, for their vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

March 26th Update:

­­Released: March 25, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Updated Guidance for Testing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated their guidance on COVID-19 testing. Their “Overview of SARS-CoV2 Testing” includes expanded descriptions of the categories of tests; choosing a test; the intended use of testing; health equity considerations for testing; equitable testing access and availability; the expanded availability and use of screening tests to reduce asymptomatic spread; the testing of vaccinated individuals and how to interpret test results; and links to setting-specific testing guidance. 

While doses of vaccines for COVID-19 currently remain limited, a comprehensive approach to reducing the spread of the coronavirus can include symptom screening, testing, and contact tracing, which can help to identify individuals who are infected and minimize virus spread. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will invest $10 billion from the American Rescue Plan as part of the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness to increase screening testing for schools, $2.25 billion to assist with testing vulnerable communities, and to update guidance on asymptomatic screening testing in schools, workplaces, and congregate settings. The City’s “Get Tested” webpage contains information about AHD- and City-supported, free testing kiosks, which use high-sensitivity, high-specificity PCR tests; provides local guidance about how and when to get tested; and what to do when there is a positive test result.

FEMA Announces COVID-19 Funeral Expense Assistance 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that assistance funds will be available for some COVID-19 related funeral expenses, beginning in early April, to help ease some of the pandemic’s financial stress and burden. The program will cover up to $9,000 per funeral since January 20, 2020, and requires that the death certificate clearly indicate that COVID-19 contributed to the cause of death. For information about the program and to apply, visit the FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance webpage.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

  

March 25th Update:

Released: March 24, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Community Vaccine Center Second Dose Scheduling

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) opened the first Community Vaccination Center (CVC) in northern Virginia on Tuesday, March 23. The Prince William County CVC is located in Woodbridge and administers 3,000 doses daily. VDH schedules appointments for CVCs from the pre-registration list at vaccinate.virginia.gov and contacts community members directly. Virginians who were vaccinated at the CVC were mistakenly told that their local health department will schedule their second dose. The state will be notifying those who received their first dose at the CVC via email within 7 days. Residents should contact VDH at 877-VAX-IN-VA with any questions about their second dose at a CVC.

Now Scheduling: Eligibility Groups by Pre-registration Date

AHD has attempted to contact, and is currently scheduling, the following groups of people for COVID-19 vaccinations. AHD uses an equitable approach to prioritize within Phase 1b groups.

• Phase 1a: Everyone who pre-registered by March 22.
• Ages 75+: Everyone who pre-registered by March 22.
• Ages 65-74: Everyone who pre-registered by March 22. 
• Ages 16-64 with certain existing medical conditions: 
  • Those in priority census tracts who pre-registered by 9 a.m. on February 4.
  • Those in all other census tracts who pre-registered by 2 p.m. on January 26. 
• Essential Frontline Workers: 
  • Police, Fire, and Hazmat; Corrections and Homeless Shelter; Childcare/PreK-12 Teachers/Staff who pre-registered by March 17.
  • Food and Agriculture/Veterinarians; Manufacturing; Grocery Stores; Public Transit; Mail Carriers/USPS and private; Officials needed to maintain continuity of government/judges/public-facing judicial workers; Clergy/Faith Leaders; Janitorial/Cleaning who pre-registered by February 25
  • Restaurant and Food Service Workers who pre-registered by February 12

If you are an essential worker who registered before the dates listed and you have not been contacted to schedule an appointment, please visit vaccinate.virginia.gov to ensure that your employment is accurately listed. Note: restaurant workers who have been newly classified as being eligible in Phase 1b in Alexandria will be contacted within the next few weeks. 

If you are in one of the categories above and you pre-registered before the date listed and have not been contacted by AHD, first check your spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, fill out this brief form. This form is not for people who are curious about when their group will be contacted next. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.   

Vaccine Eligibility Resources

A mailer was distributed to Alexandria households containing information about who is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, in English, Spanish, Amharic and Arabic. Those eligible to receive the vaccine in Alexandria include everyone ages 65 and over, frontline essential workers, and individuals ages 16-64 with underlying medical conditions. The mailer specifies who qualifies as an essential frontline worker, including police, fire, and hazmat; childcare, and K-12 teachers and staff; grocery store workers; and faith leaders, just to name a few. The eligibility list is continually being updated, so visit the City “COVID-19 Vaccines” webpage often for the most current information. 

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries for Alexandria residents at two drive-through sites on Saturday, March 27, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive via Dawes Ave.). Per college policy, if they close for any reason, such as inclement weather, the food distribution will be canceled. To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up service is reserved for residents without personal vehicles. Customers who participate in walk-up service should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Customers with vehicles should use the drive-through option. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

March 24th Update:

Released: March 23, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Changes to Executive Order 72

Governor Northam announced changes to Executive Order 72 today that will go into effect on Thursday, April 1. These changes come as Virginia's vaccination rate is steady and case counts are fluctuating. 

• Social gatherings: Limits will increase from 10 to 50 for indoor gatherings, and from 25 to 100 for outdoor gatherings. 
• Restaurants and Other Private Events: Maximum party sizes will increase from 10 to 50 people inside, and from 25 to 100 outside. 
• Entertainment and Public Amusement Venues: Limits will remain at 30% occupancy, but the cap for indoor venues will increase from 250 to 500 persons, and the cap for outdoor gatherings will be removed. 
• Recreational Sporting Events: The number of spectators allowed will increase from 25 to 100 indoors, and from 250 to 500 outdoors, and remain limited at 30% capacity. 
• Graduations and Commencements: Limits will remain at 500 persons indoors and 5,000 persons outdoors, as previously announced. 

All other guidelines of Executive Order 72, including wearing masks at all times indoors and outdoors where 6 feet of physical distancing cannot be maintained, remain in effect. 

Celebrate Vaccination Cautiously

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is urging caution when sharing pictures online about getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccine cards contain sensitive personal information, such as full name, date of birth, and more, and sharing photos of them could make you vulnerable to identity theft. Celebrate getting your vaccine, telling your story, and encouraging others to do the same by posting pictures of the button or sticker you receive after getting vaccinated at an AHD clinic, and tell others about your experience. 

Avoid Spring Break Trips and Non-Essential Travel

AHD and the City discourage residents from engaging in non-essential travel, particularly during spring break and upcoming holidays. COVID-19 cases, which had been declining since their peak on January 10, are starting to rise again. In addition to the possibility of another dangerous surge in cases, many COVID-19 variants are more infectious than the initial virus and travel may introduce variant forms of the coronavirus to Alexandria. It is critical to continue mitigation measures by wearing a mask at all times and maintaining 6 feet of physical distance from others in shared spaces. This also applies to those who have been vaccinated, as they could potentially still become infected and spread the virus to others.

Whether or not they have been vaccinated, anyone who cannot avoid travel should get tested no more than three days before departing, and stay home and quarantine for 14 days if they have a positive test result. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all travelers get tested 3-5 days after returning home and quarantine for at least 7 days, even with a negative test result. This eliminates the risk of transferring the virus to others, whether or not they have been vaccinated. The City has testing kiosks available to make it quick and easy to get tested 7 days a week. Testing is free, assistance can be provided in Spanish, and results are available within 48-72 hours.    

Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is hosting vaccination site job information sessions on Tuesday, March 24 and Monday, March 29 about 112 positions the City is filling. A spring session 50+ Rapid Reskilling Cohort for job seekers ages 50 and older begins April 6. Participants will get help updating their resumes, practice interviewing skills, and learn how to apply for federal jobs. 

WDC offers several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, networking skills, and transferable skills. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.    

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

March 23rd Update:

­­Released: March 22, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

CDC Updates Guidance for K-12 Schools

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its operational guidance for K-12 schools on March 19, 2021. AHD has reviewed the revised guidance and is in discussions with Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) and private educators.

According to the CDC’s revised guidance: 

• In elementary schools, students should be at least 3 feet apart.
• In middle schools and high schools, students should be at least 3 feet apart in areas of low, moderate, or substantial community transmission as defined by CDC. 
• In areas of high community transmission as defined by the CDC, middle and high school students should be 6 feet apart if cohorting is not possible.

Some school districts in the United States are unable to bring all students who wish to return to hybrid or in-person learning because there is not enough classroom space if the desks need to be 6 feet apart; these changes allow more students to return to school in-person. 

Six feet of distance should be maintained in the following settings: 

• Between adults, and between adults and students. Several studies have found that transmission between staff is more common than transmission between students and staff, and among students, in schools. 
• When masks cannot be worn, such as when eating.
• During activities when increased exhalation occurs, including singing, shouting, playing instruments, sports and exercise. Conduct these activities outdoors or in large, well-ventilated space, to minimize risk of transmission.
• In common areas such as school lobbies, gyms and auditoriums.

Although the CDC’s revised guidance states that students should be spaced at least 3 feet apart in some settings, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and AHD’s definition of a close contact includes individuals who are within 6 feet of a COVID-19 case for 15 or more cumulative minutes over a 24-hour period. Persons who are determined to be a close contact will be asked to quarantine for 14 days. 

Evidence suggests that many K-12 schools that have strictly implemented a combination of prevention strategies, such as universal and correct use of masks, frequent hand hygiene, physical distancing, and encouraging students and staff to stay home when they have symptoms of COVID-19,  have been able to safely open for in-person instruction and remain open. ACPS is mitigating the risk of transmission in its in-person learning by implementing five key mitigation strategies (face masks, social distancing, hand hygiene, disinfecting, and collaboration with AHD).

Request for Vaccine Supply Increase

On March 19, the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, which includes Alexandria and four neighboring Northern Virginia jurisdictions, requested significant increases of vaccine doses form the state and flexibility with their distribution. The increased doses are necessary to vaccinate currently eligible individuals on waiting lists and position the region to meet the Governor’s expectation to begin vaccinating individuals eligible in Phase 1C.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

# # #

March 22nd Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

One Year of COVID-19 in Alexandria

A year has passed since the first Alexandria residents infected with COVID-19 were recorded. Since March 19, 2020, the City and AHD have worked together to guide and support residents throughout the pandemic, while continuing to offer essential City services. 

• Nearly 5,000 volunteers and more than 300 City workers have accepted special COVID-19 related assignments to support Alexandria residents through food distribution; vaccination clinics; rental assistance; home deliveries to seniors and those under quarantine; logistics and inventory support; translation services, and more. More than 500 Medical Reserve Corp volunteers dedicated over 50,000 hours supporting vaccination efforts, staffing the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline, conducting case investigations, delivering supplies, facilitating testing, distributing PPE, and infection prevention.
• Alexandria’s 30 person team of Case Investigators and Contact Tracers worked a collective total of more than 60,000 hours and conducted 11,270 COVID-19 case investigations.

• More than 19,000 COVID-19 tests were administered through 33 testing events and 3 Curative testing kiosks. This does not include the thousands of tests administered by other providers.
• Nearly $28 million in federal assistance was invested in services and relief for Alexandrians.

• In 2020, nearly 1 million meals were served through large-scale events, pop-up distributions, food pantries and home delivery to at-risk families. More than 1,800 total food distribution events resulted in over 5 million meals distributed, through partners including ALIVE!; ACPS; City Frozen Meals; Meals on Wheels; Mother of Light; Casa Chirilagua; Old Town Community Church; World Central Kitchen; Washington Street United Methodist Church; Royal Restaurant; Del Ray Group, and more.
• 2,786 households received emergency rental assistance to prevent eviction.
• 650 businesses received grants for expenses related to reopening and rescaling, including PPE; supplies to promote health and safety; e-commerce; alterations to their environment; and rent or mortgage relief.
• 13,708 residents received aid from 57 organizations, including emergency financial assistance, education, health, housing and technology. 
• 151 children participated in the child care micro pods program.
• Virtual and remote solutions were developed to maintain continuity of government, including remote 911 call center capability; virtual code inspections; online payment options; and web-based museum, library and recreation programming.
• Nearly 280 COVID-19 news releases were published to provide the latest updates affecting the community. 
• The City has produced more than 300 shareable multilingual signs, posters, videos, flyers, mailers and social media graphics to communicate critical health guidance and information. 

AHD proactively enacted an emergency response team to prepare and organize for the onset of the impending public health emergency. Thank you to the many AHD staff who have worked tirelessly and continuously, through weekends and holidays and foregoing time off for the past 15 months, to serve Alexandrians throughout this crisis.

After a long and trying year, COVID-19 vaccines bring a sense of optimism for an end to the pandemic and a return to normalcy. So far, nearly 18,000 residents have been fully vaccinated. AHD is working diligently to implement equitable vaccination strategies and the current demand surpasses vaccine supply. 

Throughout the pandemic, Alexandria’s sense of community has been evident through residents’ dedication to help their neighbors and doing their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to follow mitigation measures and get the first vaccine that is available to you to continue to keep your loved ones and neighbors safe.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

During AHD vaccine clinics between March 12 and March 18, 972 people were partially vaccinated with a first dose and 1,522 people were fully vaccinated with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or with the single required dose of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine. This does not include vaccines administered by private providers and pharmacies. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive approximately 7,700 doses, which are a mix of first and second doses and an increase of 2,670 doses compared to the current week. This does not include additional vaccine supplies from federal programs provided directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD uses the doses received at their large vaccine events and allocates the rest to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments, by phone or email, for their vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

March 19th Update:

Released: March 18, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

CDC Launches New Website Tracking COVID-19 Variants in U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a new website that identifies new and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants to determine implications for COVID-19 diagnostics, treatments and vaccines. There are currently five strains that the CDC classifies as “Variant of Concern” in the U.S. The CDC uses genomic sequencing collected from COVID-19 cases to analyze and determine the variant of SARS-CoV-2 responsible for an infection. After conducting hundreds of tests, the percentage of cases each variant causes is calculated. “Variants of Concern” were responsible for 3.6% of COVID-19 cases in Virginia during a four-week period ending February 13. 

Some Alexandria Museums Reopen

Beginning Thursday, March 25, the Office of Historic Alexandria will reopen some of its museums to the public. Alexandria Archaeology Museum, Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum, Friendship Firehouse Museum and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum will open with modified hours, capacities, and advance ticket requirements, which vary by location. Visitors are encouraged to visit the museum web page before they visit. For the safety of museum staff, volunteers and guests, visitors are expected to follow the requirements of Executive Order 72 and the City mask ordinance. Everyone ages 5 and older is required to wear masks that fit snugly over their nose and mouth at all times; to keep 6 feet of physical distance between households; and to wash hands or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% ethyl alcohol frequently. Visit the Historic Alexandria webpage for information on the status of the other museums and a complete list of online resources.     

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 



 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

March 18th Update:

Released: March 17, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Federal Pharmacy Partners Program Expands Vaccine Access 

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that pharmacies participating in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Federal Retail Pharmacy program will expand vaccination to include all Phase 1b individuals. This expansion includes people who are ages 16-64 with high-risk medical conditions, as well as frontline essential workers. If you are interested in getting vaccinated at a participating pharmacy, visit VaccineFinder.org to find eligible pharmacy locations, hours, phone numbers and scheduling links where available. Pharmacies participating in the Federal Retail Pharmacy program are responsible for their own scheduling and managing their own pre-registration lists.

CORRECTION: Now Scheduling: Eligibility Groups by Pre-registration Date

AHD has attempted to contact, and is currently scheduling, the following groups of people for COVID-19 vaccinations. AHD uses an equitable approach to prioritize within Phase 1b groups.

• Phase 1a: Everyone who pre-registered by March 8.
• Ages 75+: Everyone who pre-registered by March 8.
• Ages 65-74: Everyone who pre-registered by 2:15 p.m. on March 9.Essential frontline workers: Everyone who pre-registered by February 25.
• Ages 16-64 with certain existing medical conditions: 
  • Those in  priority census tracts who pre-registered by 9 a.m. on February 4.
  • Those in all other census tracts who pre-registered by 12:30 a.m. on January 20. 
• Essential frontline workers: Everyone who pre-registered by February 25.
  If you are an essential worker who registered before February 25 and you have not been contacted to schedule an appointment, please visit vaccinate.virginia.gov to ensure that your employment is accurately listed. Note: restaurant workers who have been newly classified as being eligible in Phase 1b in Alexandria will be contacted within the next few weeks. 

If you are in one of the categories above and you pre-registered before the date listed and have not been contacted by AHD, first check your spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, fill out this brief form. This form is not for people who are curious about when their group will be contacted next. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988.   

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 



 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

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March 17th Update:

Released: March 16, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

When to Expect Alexandria to Begin Phase 1c

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) announced today that some health districts will begin the transition to Phase 1c vaccinations this week, and that all communities across Virginia should be able to move into this phase within weeks. None of the northern Virginia health districts have moved into Phase 1c yet. Alexandria continues to make strides in vaccinating residents and essential workers, but AHD has nearly 20,000 pre-registrants in Phase 1b on the waitlist, who have not yet been contacted or vaccinated. Vaccine supply has been slowly increasing, from less than 2,000 total doses per week to the current approximately 5,000 doses, which are a mix of first and second doses. VDH and AHD anticipate these numbers to increase considerably in the coming weeks. AHD anticipates moving into Phase 1c in the next 3-4 weeks depending on an adequate supply of vaccine. The anticipated increase in vaccine supply, and eventual transition to Phase 1c, highlights the importance of pre-registering with vaccinate.virginia.gov, or updating your profile if you have already pre-registered. VDH estimates that Phase 1c will be complete and all of Virginia will be in Phase 2 by May.   

Spanish Language Vaccine Town Hall 

The Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will present "Vacunación en Virginia: Tú preguntas, los expertos responden" on Wednesday, March 17 at 7 p.m. This hour-long town hall will be conducted solely in Spanish and will feature medical experts and community leaders who will address common questions about COVID-19 vaccines. The town hall will be broadcast live on the Telemundo 44 Directo Al Consumidor Facebook page.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

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March 16th Update:

Released: March 15, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Rent Relief Program Accepting Applications for April Payments

In February, Virginia received $500 million in new federal housing assistance, $160 million of which is being made available to renters and landlords through the Virginia Rent Relief Program (RRP). The City of Alexandria Eviction Prevention Task Force urges residents who need help making rent payments due COVID-19 hardships to check to see if they are eligible and apply through the RRP web page, or call 211. Landlords are encouraged to apply on behalf of tenants to receive assistance for delinquent rental payments from April 1, 2020, and forward. Renters who received assistance for past-due rent through the Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP) can reapply through RRP for help with future rental payments. 

The Office of Housing also offers emergency eviction prevention assistance, including rental assistance related to COVID-19 impacts, for Alexandria residents facing eviction. Residents who have received a 5- or 14-Day “Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Property,” a court summons or an eviction notice should call 703.746.4990. For more information on rental assistance programs and other services available to Alexandria residents, visit the Eviction Prevention Task Force webpage.

COVID-19 Vaccines for Pregnant and Nursing Individuals

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has issued updated guidance reaffirming that pregnant and lactating individuals who wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine can be vaccinated. ACOG noted that after an explicit, evidence-based review of all available data, the COVID-19 vaccines do not pose an additional danger to those who are pregnant or lactating. Symptomatic pregnant patients with COVID-19 are at increased risk of more severe illness. Moreover, pregnant patients with underlying conditions such as obesity and diabetes, may be at an even higher risk of severe illness than the general population with similar conditions. 

Job Fair, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) is promoting an upcoming virtual job fair with G3 Global Hiring on March 23. WDC also has several workshops coming up to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including job searching skills, networking skills, preparing for a virtual job fair, and transferable skills. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 



Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

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March 15th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

COVID-19 Vaccines at a Glance

As authorized COVID-19 vaccines become available for use in Alexandria, residents can learn about each option. AHD recommends that the best vaccine is the one available to you first. AHD is committed to supporting vaccine transparency and all appointment invitations will be clearly labelled with the type of vaccine being offered. The Virginia Department of Health provides a simple side-by-side review of all three currently authorized vaccines in English and Spanish. Learn more about each brand and how they work with resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Weekly Vaccine Updates

During AHD vaccine clinics between March 5 and March 11, 1,292 people were partially vaccinated with a first dose and 2,515 people were fully vaccinated with either a second dose of Moderna or Pfizer or with the single required dose of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine. This does not include vaccines administered by private providers and pharmacies. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive approximately 5,040 doses, which are a mix of first and second doses and an increase of 560 doses compared to the current week. This does not include additional vaccine supplies from federal programs provided directly to participating pharmacies and Alexandria's federally qualified health center, Neighborhood Health. AHD uses the doses received at their large vaccine events and allocates the rest to private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments, by phone or email, for their vaccine events and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

Statewide Tornado Drill During Severe Weather Awareness Week March 15-19

The Alexandria Office of Emergency Management encourages everyone to help promote severe weather safety by participating in Virginia’s annual Statewide Tornado Drill at 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 16, as part of Severe Weather Awareness Week March 15-19. With many people working from home to stop the spread of COVID-19, the annual drill is an excellent opportunity to make a plan with your family in case of a tornado and to test public warning systems. Residents are reminded to update emergency kits with supplies that will protect the household from COVID-19, including extra face masks, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.

Alexandria residents and businesses are encouraged to perform a tornado drill by themselves, with family, or with coworkers and post pictures of your participation using #ALXTornadoDrill. Follow the City’s Office of Emergency Management on social media for severe weather preparedness tips and information. To receive emergency notifications by text or email, subscribe to the City’s free Alexandria eNews service at alexandriava.gov/eNews.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video.  

March 12th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

New Guidance for Long-Term Care Facilities

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued revised guidance for how long-term care facilities manage the risks of COVID-19 after being severely impacted by the pandemic. The new HHS guidelines allow for additional activities and visitors now that many long-term care facility residents and staff have been vaccinated. Highlights include:

• Residents should continue to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing within the facility.
• Compassionate care visits are fully permitted.
• Visitor testing and vaccination are encouraged (but not required).
• Visitors should be screened for symptoms and recent COVID-19 exposure (but not required).

Residents are now permitted to have physical contact with visitors only if the resident is fully vaccinated and both parties wear masks. HHS recommends the following to make close contact visits safer:

• Hold visits outdoors when possible.
• Brief periods of contact with distancing for the rest of the visit is preferable over continuous close contact, such as a hug hello and a hug goodbye with 6 feet of physical  distancing in between.
• Pre-visit testing for visitors is recommended. Learn more about free testing.

Guidance for Workplaces and Businesses

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated guidance to help workplaces and businesses plan, prepare, and respond to providing a safe environment for workers, and for employees to follow to help keep their workplace safe. General guidance is provided for employers and specific guidance is broken down by industry, including transportation and delivery; essential services; food services; manufacturing and industrial; personal services and hospitality, and more. Frequently Asked Questions are searchable by keyword and provides answers about suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases in the workplace; reducing the spread in the workplace; cleaning and disinfecting the workplace; ventilation, and more. Resources to help with planning, policy and operations; managing cases, testing, and contact tracing; and coping with stress and fatigue, as well as printable flyers and signage. The City’s Catalog of Multilingual Resources offers materials that are specific to Alexandria, many of them translated into Spanish, Amharic and Arabic, and all are available for download and print, or can be requested. 

Understanding Viral Vector Vaccines

The viral vector vaccine is one type of COVID-19 vaccine that has received Emergency Authorized Use for distribution by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Viral vectors have been used in vaccines and studies since the 1970s, most recently to fight outbreaks of the Ebola virus. Viral vector COVID-19 vaccines inject a harmless virus that the body uses to produce a spike protein that is found on the surface of the virus that causes COVID-19. The immune system then recognizes that the spike protein doesn’t belong there and begins to fight off what it recognizes as an infection by producing antibodies and activating other immune cells to attack the spike protein. This process teaches the immune system to identify the COVID-19 virus in the future and protect the body. Viral vector vaccines do not include the COVID-19 virus, do not cause someone to become infected with COVID-19 and do not affect or interact with a person’s DNA. 

Johnson & Johnson is currently the only manufacturer of a viral vector COVID-19 vaccine authorized for use in the U.S., and requires one dose, instead of two. Side effects from a COVID-19 viral vector vaccine are similar to the mRNA vaccines being used by Moderna and Pfizer, ranging from pain and swelling at the injection site to chills, fever and fatigue throughout the rest of the body, and subside within a couple of days of receiving the vaccine. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

March 11th Update:

Released: March 10, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Now Scheduling: Eligibility Groups by Pre-registration Date

AHD has attempted to contact, and is currently scheduling, the following groups of people for COVID-19 vaccinations. AHD uses an equitable approach to prioritize within Phase 1b groups.

• Ages 75+: AHD prioritizes this group on an ongoing basis.
• Ages 65-74: Everyone who pre-registered by February 12.
• Ages 16-64 with underlying conditions: 
  • Those in priority census tracts who pre-registered by 9 p.m. on January 22.
  • Those in all other census tracts who pre-registered by 11 a.m. on January 17.
• Essential frontline workers: Everyone who pre-registered by February 25.
  If you are an essential worker who registered before February 25 and you have not been contacted to schedule an appointment, please visit vaccinate.virginia.gov to ensure that your employment is accurately listed. Note: restaurant workers who have been newly classified as being eligible in Phase 1b will be contacted within the next few weeks. 

If you are in one of the categories above and you pre-registered before the date listed and have not been contacted by AHD, first check your spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, fill out this brief form. This form is not for people who are curious about when their group will be contacted next. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988. 

Emergency Food Distribution this Saturday

ALIVE! Truck-to-Trunk will distribute emergency groceries for Alexandria residents at two drive-through sites on Saturday, March 13, 8:30-10:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Cora Kelly Elementary School (3600 Commonwealth Ave.) and parking lot B-1 of the Northern Virginia Community College Alexandria Campus (3320 Bisdorf Drive via Dawes Ave.). Per college policy, if they close for any reason, such as inclement weather, the food distribution will be canceled. To minimize risk of possible exposure to COVID-19, attendees are asked to drive through and remain in their cars and stay home if they feel sick. Walk-up service is reserved for residents without personal vehicles. Customers who participate in walk-up service should maintain 6 feet of physical distance, wear face masks, and bring carts or reusable bags to carry food home. Customers with vehicles should use the drive-through option. Additional food assistance resources are available for Alexandria residents.     

Libraries Reopen Monday

Effective Monday, March 15, Alexandria Libraries will reopen to the public with limited hours and occupancy, including staff, which vary from branch to branch. As Phase Three of their reopening plan, all guests ages 5 and older will be expected to wear a mask over their nose and mouth at all times while inside the library. Food and drink will not be allowed into the library to ensure that masks are worn at all times, and a mask will be provided to anyone who arrives without one. All guests will have their temperature taken upon arrival and will be refused entry if they are above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and offered curbside pickup or delivery as alternatives. Customers are allowed to remain in the building for up to two hours, including any computer time, but may re-enter after 30 minutes, and must maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from other guests throughout their visit. Meeting spaces remain closed and curbside pickup will continue for anyone who is uncomfortable entering branch buildings. For more information, visit alexlibraryva.org.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video.

March 10th Update:

Released: March 9, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

New Large-Scale Vaccination Site Opening Soon in Alexandria

Inova Health System, in partnership with the City and Fairfax County, will open a large-scale COVID-19 vaccination center and expects to begin serving Northern Virginia by the end of March. The new Inova Stonebridge Vaccination Center, located in Alexandria, will have the capacity to vaccinate at least 6,000 people daily, as vaccine supplies allow. Along with AHD’s vaccine clinics, private providers and pharmacies, the Inova facility adds another option for vaccinating more eligible Alexandrians once vaccine supplies significantly increase.

DASH Bus Updates

Effective Monday, March 15, DASH buses will resume front-door boarding and fare collection of $2 per trip, and continue to offer discounted and fare-free programs for students and seniors. Passengers are encouraged to use contactless options to pay the fare to reduce the spread of COVID-19, such as the DASH app or the SmartTrip app or card. Passengers are required to wear masks over their nose and mouth at all times, including while waiting for the bus, boarding, traveling, and disembarking the bus. Passengers will not be permitted on any DASH bus without a mask. King Street Trolley service remains suspended until further notice.

Clarification on Updating Records 

Over the weekend, many residents received a legitimate email from the Virginia Department of Health from vaccinatevirginia@info.vdh.virginia.gov. Everyone should verify and update their pre-registration records now by visiting vaccinate.virginia.gov or calling 877-VAX-IN-VA, because the form includes additional questions that were not available on previous forms. If a record is missing important information, vaccination appointments may be delayed. People who have already been vaccinated should still update their records, because it will help match them to the immunization database and prevent them from receiving weekly reminders. Verifying information and updating records will not change pre-registration dates or reference codes.

Job Fair, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center (WDC) has several workshops coming up to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, job searching skills, and transferable skills. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

March 9th Update:

Released: March 8, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Guidance for Fully Vaccinated

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidance for people who have been fully vaccinated. People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, like Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine. Those fully vaccinated:

• Should continue wearing a mask and maintaining physical distance when in public, when gathering with unvaccinated people at high risk of severe illness, or when gathering with unvaccinated people from more than one household. 
• Can gather indoors with fully vaccinated people without wearing a mask.
• Can gather indoors with unvaccinated people from one other household (for example, visiting with relatives who all live together) without masks, unless any of those people or anyone they live with has an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
• Do not need to stay away from others or get tested after exposure to someone with COVID-19 unless they develop symptoms.

Everyone, even those fully vaccinated, should continue to avoid medium and large gatherings, and delay domestic and international travel. If unsure about whether others are fully vaccinated, follow guidance as though they are not vaccinated. All existing City and state executive order requirements still apply.

Pre-registered Residents Asked to Update Records

Residents who pre-registered for the COVID-19 vaccine through the CDC Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) are being asked to verify or update their pre-registration information. Anyone who pre-registered through VAMS may have received a legitimate communication from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). If you received this email from vaccinatevirginia@info.VDH.virginia.gov and are not yet fully vaccinated, please use the link provided in the email to update your information. Many records that were transferred from VAMS to the current state system did not have enough information for AHD to make contact to schedule appointments. The City and AHD are working hard to ensure that everyone who is eligible receives a vaccine, and thank you for your patience.

Restaurant Workers Added to Phase 1b Prioritization

In addition to the frontline essential workers listed in VDH’s Phase 1b prioritization, AHD will now be including restaurant workers in Phase 1b. Restaurant workers—particularly those that work in kitchens and small enclosed areas—generally must work within six feet of others for prolonged periods of time, which increases the risk of COVID-19 exposure. Waitstaff are unable to maintain a safe distance from customers who are not wearing masks while eating or drinking. Additionally, many food service workers tend to be from vulnerable communities, are often uninsured or underinsured, and do not have paid time off, which can put them at higher risk of complications if they contract COVID-19 with limited access to medical care. Restaurant workers who previously selected "Food Service" as their occupation while pre-registering will automatically be added to Phase 1b and do not need to take further action.

Guidance for Caregivers and Persons with Disabilities Requiring a High Level of Daily Care

Based upon the following updated AHD guidance, caregivers and the people they care for may wish to update their pre-registration status by visiting vaccinate.virginia.gov or calling 877.829.4682.  

• Caregivers: In early February, VDH provided updated guidance regarding primary caregivers for persons with severe medical conditions or intellectual or developmental disabilities requiring a high level of daily care. From that guidance, such primary caregivers are categorized as a home health aide or personal care aide and are included in Phase 1a. If serving as an unpaid primary caregiver for a loved one, residents can select “Home Health Aide” as their occupation, enter "self-employed” under employer name and use their home address as their work address.

• Persons with Disabilities Requiring a High Level of Daily Care: AHD is now advising that persons with severe medical conditions or intellectual or developmental disabilities who require a high level of daily care, and would be eligible for residence in a long-term care facility or a group home but whose families take care of them at home, should pre-register through vaccinate.virginia.gov and select "Other Adult Care Home, Family Care Home, or Group Home" on the appropriate pre-registration page. This will prioritize them in Phase 1a, equivalent to their counterparts in group homes. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The seven-day moving average chart below shows the number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, and provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. The vaccination chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated, and is available at alexandriava.gov/120654. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus. 

 

 

 

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

March 8th Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible, wear a mask over both your nose and mouth, and wash your hands frequently. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once appointments are available. AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who have tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization, so without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. 

Vaccine Pre-Registration Profiles Now Editable

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has launched a new feature on the state’s vaccine pre-registration webpage allowing residents to edit their profile after they have pre-registered. A change of job or medical condition can now be updated by visiting vaccinate.virginia.gov or calling 877-VAX-IN-VA (877.829.4682). All pre-registrants will also receive an email providing instructions and additional information. VDH has noted that even if pre-registrants have filled out multiple pre-registration forms, the earliest date they entered themselves into the system has been recorded and will be used when determining vaccine eligibility. No one will lose their place in line because they choose to, or choose not to, update their record. AHD continues to vaccinate City residents and essential workers according to their vaccine prioritization process. View AHD’s progress in contacting priority groups.

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between February 26 and March 4, AHD administered 803 first doses and 1,902 second doses. These numbers do not include vaccines administered by private providers and pharmacies. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive approximately 4,400 vaccine doses, which are a mix of first and second doses. AHD allocates these doses between health department large vaccine events and private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments for AHD clinics and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria (by email or phone) from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

New Alexandria Vaccinations Chart

A new COVID-19 Vaccinations chart is now available to report on the progress of vaccinations in Alexandria, and will be included in this news release going forward. Using the most recent data on Alexandria residents from VDH’s Virginia Immunization Information System, the chart includes total doses administered across all facilities and the percentage of residents ages 16 and older who have been partially and fully vaccinated. As shown on the chart below, AHD's goal is that 80% of Alexandria's population ages 16 and older (106,618 people) will be fully vaccinated by July 31, 2021.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

Continue following measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 even after vaccination. Get tested if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If you test positive, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. 

 

 

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March 5th Update:

Released: March 4, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible. Stop the spread by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, staying home unless it’s necessary to go out, and washing your hands frequently. Without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once when you're eligible.

V-safe Health Checker Frequently Asked Questions

Individuals who receive a COVID-19 vaccine are asked to sign up with V-safe, the after-vaccination health checker. V-safe is a tool developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to understand how the vaccines affect recipients, from common side effects to adverse reactions. The CDC has developed a V-safe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) webpage to help users understand how to access the tool; how it works; patient confidentiality; the pregnancy registry; how information provided helps the CDC; and whether medical advice is available through the tool. V-safe is a smartphone-based tool that uses web surveys to collect post-vaccine symptom information. The FAQ provides information for vaccine recipients who do not have smartphones but would like to submit a report of symptoms.  

Clarification on Vaccination Scheduling Update

On March 3, AHD provided a Vaccination Scheduling Update about those who have already been contacted for a vaccination appointment based upon eligibility group and pre-registration date. This update was meant to increase transparency about the vaccination process and to ensure that anyone eligible for vaccination within those category pre-registration dates knows how to reach AHD if they haven't been contacted to schedule an appointment. At this time, AHD cannot respond to requests about when the next eligible group or individuals will be vaccinated, because vaccine supply is limited and may vary. AHD is focused on scheduling appointments within the currently eligible pre-registration dates with the available vaccine doses.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

 

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer. If you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. Download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. 

  

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March 4th Update:

Released: March 3, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible. Stop the spread by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, staying home unless it’s necessary to go out, and washing your hands frequently. Without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once when you're eligible.

Vaccination Scheduling Update

AHD has attempted to contact, and is currently scheduling, the following groups of people for COVID-19 vaccinations. With current limited supplies, AHD uses an equitable approach to prioritize within Phase 1b groups. 

• Ages 75+: Everyone who pre-registered by February 14. AHD prioritizes this group on an ongoing basis.
• Ages 65-74: Everyone who pre-registered by January 27.
• Ages 16-64 with underlying conditions: 
  • Those in priority census tracts who pre-registered by 9 p.m. on January 22.
  • Those in all other census tracts who pre-registered by 8 a.m. on January 7.
• Essential frontline workers: Everyone who pre-registered by February 12.

If you are in one of the categories above and you pre-registered before the date listed and have not been contacted by AHD, first check your spam folder. If you do not have a message in your spam folder, contact AHD at alexcovid19@vdh.virginia.gov with the exact name and email address (or phone number) you used to pre-register, and your date of birth. Anyone who does not have email or internet access should contact the Alexandria COVID-19 Hotline weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 703.746.4988. 

Welcome Spring Safely

Spring is coming and the weather will be warming up soon. AHD urges residents to continue to choose virtual activities, which pose the lowest risk for the spread of the virus. Celebrate the arrival of spring from the comfort and safety of home with the following options being hosted in Alexandria and across the region: 

• Alexandria Drive-in Theatre - Get out of the house to safely watch blockbuster movies with members of the household in a drive-in movie setting. Food is available for purchase on site.
• Petal Porch Parade - Register to participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival by decorating your porch, yard and windows in a cherry blossom theme. Plan a walk or drive around your neighborhood to share in the celebration of spring using a virtual map of participants.
• National Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony - Experience the opening ceremonies of the National Cherry Blossom Festival virtually with world-renowned performers, co-hosted by Olympic Gold Medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and local news reporter Michelle Marsh. 
• Gaelic Storm St. Patrick’s Day Livestream - Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at home with a livestream concert hosted by The Birchmere. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

 

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer. If you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “ What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. Download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. 

March 3rd Update:

For Immediate Release: March 2, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible. Stop the spread by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, staying home unless it’s necessary to go out, and washing your hands frequently. Without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once when you're eligible.

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Authorized for Emergency Use

On Saturday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use. Adding a third vaccine to Alexandria’s pandemic response is significant and will ultimately mean that more vaccines are available to protect more people. All three of the currently authorized vaccines have been proven to protect against serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Johnson & Johnson vaccines will become available in Alexandra starting later this week. Anyone who receives an invitation to schedule an appointment will clearly see which vaccine is being offered so they can learn about it and make the best decision for their own health. Residents are encouraged to receive the vaccine that is available to them first. AHD will continue to vaccinate the priority groups currently receiving vaccine appointments.

Ready to Get Business Back to Normal

Alexandria businesses will soon receive a “Ready to Get Business Back to Normal?” postcard from the City and AHD. The postcard includes information for businesses in English and Spanish, including who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine; the role employers play in helping to get their employees registered for vaccination; and how to request assistance with pre-registration. The sooner employees are registered to receive a vaccination, the sooner they will be notified of available appointments once they become eligible. Visit alexandriava.gov/Vaccines to pre-register to receive the vaccine; learn who is currently eligible; and get information about the vaccines.

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

 

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer. If you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. Download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus. 

 

March 2nd Update:

Released: March 1, 2021

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible. Stop the spread by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, staying home unless it’s necessary to go out, and washing your hands frequently. Without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once when you're eligible.

Deaths from Holiday COVID-19 Surge

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reviewing and accounting for COVID-19 deaths that occurred during the post-Holiday COVID-19 surge between January and the end of February. As a result, there have been recent increases in deaths reported in Alexandria's COVID-19 dashboard. AHD and the City extend their sincere condolences to all community members who have lost someone during the course of the pandemic. 

New Second Dose Scheduling Process

AHD is implementing a new model that will allow second dose appointments to be scheduled within 48 hours of the first dose. Those with email addresses will receive an email to make their appointment online, while those without access to the internet or with limited English language skills will be able to make their appointment over the phone. This new system will alleviate some of the stress residents have experienced in scheduling appointments. While unexpected events may require rescheduling, AHD strongly urges those with confirmed appointments to keep them unless they are ill. If you received your first dose with AHD, you will receive a second dose rescheduling email from vaccine.registration@alexandriava.gov. Check your spam folder if you do not see an email from this account. If you received your first dose from another provider, contact them directly for your second dose information.

Job Fair, Weekly Featured Jobs and Workshops

Residents who have lost employment due to COVID-19 are encouraged to review the list of employers who are hiring, which is updated weekly. The Alexandria Workforce Development Center offers several workshops to help residents enhance job readiness and improve their job search, including resume building skills, job interviewing skills, networking skills, and preparing for a virtual job fair. Residents can also access free “SkillUp” workplace, business, and IT courses. All events and workshops take place online, are free, and registration is requested. Follow WDC on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn for the latest flyer, or visit the WDC’s job board for a complete list of job opportunities.  

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

 

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer. If you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. Download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus.

March 1st Update:

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) strongly urge residents to stay home as much as possible. Stop the spread by wearing a mask over both your nose and mouth, staying home unless it’s necessary to go out, and washing your hands frequently. Without these critical steps, additional lives may be at risk. Pre-register to receive the vaccine and you’ll be notified once when you're eligible.

City Hall Walk-in Payment Hours Expanded

In an effort to better serve Alexandria residents, service hours for walk-in payments at City Hall have been expanded. Beginning Monday, March 1, in-person services are now available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contactless options include payment via an outside dropbox on the Royal Street side of City Hall; by credit card or eCheck at alexandriava.gov/Payments; by phone at 703.746.4800 weekdays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m; and by mail for most payments. For more information about how to make payments and contact staff with questions, visit alexandriava.gov/Payments.

VDH Releases Vaccine Demographic Information by Jurisdiction

After weeks of advocacy by AHD, the Virginia Department of Health has released COVID-19 vaccine administration data by demographics at the local level. AHD has been scheduling the priority groups to receive the vaccine, with a focus on equity.

Age: 

• VDH data shows that 4,503 Alexandrians ages 60 and over have been fully vaccinated; this represents nearly half (49%) of all fully vaccinated residents. This same age group represents 56% of residents who have received at least one dose of vaccine.
• After six weeks of vaccinating, 7,093 residents ages 70 and over have received at least one dose of the vaccine. This represents 61% of Alexandrians in this age group (11,676).
• AHD has worked closely with Senior Services of Alexandria, the Division of Aging, the Commission on Aging, Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Claridge House, all long-term care facilities, and various nonprofits on vaccine education, outreach, and scheduling. 

Race/Ethnicity: 

• The data shows that white residents are receiving vaccines at higher rates than Asian or Pacific Islander, Black or Latino residents. Race or ethnicity is not associated with 38% of residents (7,143) who have received at least one dose of vaccine because it had not been required. Legislation passed on February 15 now requires health care providers who administer COVID-19 vaccinations to collect and report race and ethnicity data. 
•  The ratio of Black Alexandrians vaccinated with at least one dose compared to white Alexandrians vaccinated (58%) mirrors the ratio of Black Virginians vaccinated to white Virginians vaccinated (57%)
• The ratio of Asian or Pacific Islander Alexandrians vaccinated with at least one dose compared to white Alexandrians vaccinated (55%) is somewhat higher than the ratio of Asian or Pacific Islander Virginians vaccinated to white Virginians vaccinated (51%). 
• The ratio of Latino Alexandrians with at least one dose compared to white Alexandrians vaccinated (73%) is higher than the ratio of Latino Virginians vaccinated compared to white Virginians vaccinated (47%). 
• Some of the disproportionality among people of color compared to white populations may be due to the current vaccination focus on older adults. Alexandria has a life expectancy gap of eight years depending on factors such as ZIP code, education, race and income. 
• In addition to AHD's equitable vaccine prioritization process, AHD will use this data to reinforce existing engagement efforts, such as partnering with communities of color, to raise awareness about vaccine safety and effectiveness, and how to pre-register and how to obtain COVID-19 vaccination. 

Weekly Vaccine Updates

Between February 19 and February 25, AHD administered 690 first doses and 3,732 second doses. These numbers do not include vaccines administered by private providers and pharmacies. Last week's inclement weather forced rescheduled events and resulted in higher than expected numbers of second dose vaccinations this week. 

Next week, Alexandria will receive approximately 3,000 vaccine doses, which are a mix of first and second doses. AHD allocates these doses between health department large vaccine events and private providers. AHD directly schedules appointments for AHD clinics and the vast majority of private providers in Alexandria (by email or phone) from the existing pre-registration list. The other private providers are vaccinating eligible residents based on AHD's guidance. 

To date, 18,951 residents have received at least one dose and 9,106 residents have been fully vaccinated. VDH’s vaccine dashboard also includes rates of vaccination by jurisdiction. 

Alexandria COVID-19 Data At-a-Glance

The chart below, containing the seven-day moving average number of COVID-19 cases and the daily and cumulative case and fatality counts, provides detailed information about how preventive measures are impacting Alexandria's response to the pandemic. An interactive version is available at alexandriava.gov/114883. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, are available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.    

 

AHD estimates that approximately 1 in 20 Alexandrians who tested positive for COVID-19 have required hospitalization. An estimated 66% of Virginia adults who become infected never have symptoms. The best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19 remain wearing a mask in public, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others, and frequently washing your hands or carrying and using hand sanitizer. If you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19, help loved ones and neighbors by informing your close contacts using “What to Do If You Get Sick” guidance, which is available in Spanish, Amharic, Arabic, and Farsi or this brief video. Download the Virginia Department of Health’s COVIDWISE app to be quickly and anonymously notified of likely exposure to the virus.