Tuesday, March 31, 2020

(Washington, DC) – The District released coronavirus (COVID-19) testing results that occurred on Monday, March 30, for first responders. The testing yielded:

• 5 additional cases among Fire Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) members

• 4 additional cases among Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) members

The new testing brings FEMS’ total cases to 19, and MPD’s total cases to 13, as of this evening.

As Mayor Bowser announced today in her press briefing, beginning on April 1, 2020, the District will be reporting daily and comprehensive COVID-19 data by approximately 10 am each morning.

With ongoing community transmission, contact tracing is focused on positive cases associated with healthcare workers (including first responders), senior care facilities, correctional and detention centers, childcare facilities, and facilities serving individuals who are experiencing homelessness. Guidance has been published for healthcare providers, employers and the public to provide information on what to do if you have been diagnosed with or are a contact of someone who has COVID-19.

District residents are encouraged to STAY AT HOME and take the following actions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Stay home when you are sick

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available

• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in a trash

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

If you have to leave home for an essential purpose, practice social distancing and stay six feet apart from others. For more information on the District’s response, visit coronavirus.dc.gov.