As of March 19, 2020, public health officials have noted evidence of community transmission of the COVID-19 coronavirus in parts of Northern Virginia. There is a total of 16 cases of COVID-19 in the Fairfax Health District, which includes the City of Fairfax and the City of Falls Church and towns within the county.

Community transmission, or "community spread," is defined by the Centers for Disease Control as a "spread of an illness for which the source of infection is unknown."

Local governments in Northern Virginia have already taken a number of actions to promote social distancing and protect those at increased risk for severe illness. Individuals are urged to wash hands frequently; stay home when sick; avoid close contact with those who are sick; cover coughs and sneezes; maintain at least six feet of personal space whenever possible; avoid crowded areas and non-essential travel if you are over age 65 or have a chronic medical condition; and follow local government guidance.

Infectious diseases do not respect boundaries. Each individual is a critical part of slowing the spread of COVID-19, in addition to government action at the local, state and federal levels.

Stay Informed

This is a rapidly changing situation, and information is being shared as it becomes available.