Editor’s Note: For more daily updates on how the coronavirus is impacting Northern Virginia, click here.
Local
Sentara Healthcare announced on March 11, that the organization now has access to tests for COVID-19 through commercial laboratories. The tests are a vital option for those suspected of contracting the virus but not exhibiting common symptoms. Across the health care organization’s multiple locations in Virginia and North Carolina, only two visitors will be permitted to visit patients, emergency departments or other outpatient locations. (Inside NoVA)
Multiple locations have canceled classes for K-12 students including Loudoun County, as of March 12, and local universities are extending spring break or moving classes entirely online for a remainder of the spring semester (including Marymount University and George Mason University). Click here for university updates.
More events and large gatherings are being canceled across the region. For specific announcements, please check our events cancellation page.
DC.
Shortly after 3 p.m. on March 11, Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a state of emergency for the District, which allows her to request federal disaster funding, make price gouging illegal (especially on all of those hard-to-find disinfectant items and toilet paper) and have access to medical quarantining resources. DC has confirmed 10 cases as of March 11. (WTOP)
National
On March 11, President Donald Trump announced a 30-day travel ban from 26 European nations. It begins late Friday, March 13, and does not include the United Kingdom. There will be exceptions for “Americans who have undergone appropriate screenings.” (AP)
