The Fairfax County Health Department is reporting three additional deaths due to complications of COVID-19 – bringing the total number of deaths in the health district to five on April 1.
A male in his 60s
A male in his 80s
A male in his 90s
All three were hospitalized at the time of death and were previously included in case reporting.
On April 1, 43 new positive cases of COVID-19 were reported in the Fairfax Health District, bringing the total number of positive cases to 288. The health district includes Fairfax County, City of Fairfax, City of Falls Church and towns within the county.
“This is a reminder that we have to be diligent in doing our part to slow the spread of virus in our community,” said Dr. Gloria Addo-Ayensu, director of health. “Please remember to wash your hands thoroughly and often, cover your coughs and sneezes, avoid touching your face, stay home if you are sick, and abide by Governor Ralph Northam’s ‘stay at home’ order.”
The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person. COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, according to the health department. If symptoms develop, they advise contacting your health care provider to describe the situation.
To lower the risk of transmission:
Stay at home.
Avoid non-essential travel, especially if you are an individual who is at increased risk for severe illness, including pregnant women, older adults and persons of any age with underlying health conditions.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Those with high risk factors and who have fever or new or worsening cough, should consider contacting their providers when they are sick. Call ahead to let them know of your symptoms.