COVID-19 Emergency: Difference between revisions

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The '''COVID-19 Emergency''' is an ongoing crisis to contain with the novel coronavirus that has impacted all aspects of life in the greater [[Charlottesville]] region. People are being asked to limit contacts with others to stop the infection from expanding to the point where hospitals are overwhelmed. Virginia is under a state of emergency but a shutdown of all but non-essential businesses has not yet occurred.  
The '''COVID-19 Emergency''' is an ongoing crisis to contain the coronavirus that has impacted all aspects of life in the greater [[Charlottesville]] region and the world. Since March 12, people have been recommended to limit contacts with others to stop the infection from expanding to the point where hospitals are overwhelmed. That was the day Virginia Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency. A stay at home order was declared on [[March 30]], [[2020]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=NUMBER FIFTY-FIVE (2020)
TEMPORARY STAY AT HOME ORDER DUE TO NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)|url=https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-55-Temporary-Stay-at-Home-Order-Due-to-Novel-Coronavirus-(COVID-19).pdf|author=Governor Ralph Northam|work=Executive Order|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 30, 2020|accessdate=March 31, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=Episode 13 - Stay Home. That’s an Order!|url=https://covid-19-in-charlottesville.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-13-stay-home-thats-an-order|author=Sean Tubbs|work=Podcast|publisher=Sean Tubbs|location=|publishdate=March 31, 2020|accessdate=March 31, 2020}}</ref>


Governor Ralph Northam has urged Virginians to gather in groups no larger than 10 to help avoid "community spread." <ref name="mar17gov">{{cite web|title=Governor Northam Announces New Measures to Combat COVID-19 and Support Impacted Virginians|url=https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/all-releases/2020/march/headline-854487-en.html|author=|work=Press Release|publisher=Governor of Virginia|location=|publishdate=March 17, 2020|accessdate=March 17, 2020}}</ref> <ref name="ctom-ongoing" />  
Local schools are closed through the end of the school year. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Northam orders all Virginia public schools closed for minimum of two weeks|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/state/northam-orders-all-virginia-public-schools-closed-for-minimum-of/article_562aafb8-307b-5b32-bec8-7f4c05e9b48f.html|author=News and Advance Reports|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> Many businesses have closed and people are required to limit contact with other people through a phenomenon called "social-distancing." Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being. <ref name="dp319">{{cite-progress|title=Live local updates: Charlottesville suspends past-due tax collections; more local cases confirmed|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/live-local-updates-charlottesville-suspends-past-due-tax-collections-more/article_4cb70b13-8fe1-5a2a-8857-1f1b6aedf0a5.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 19, 2020|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref>


Local schools are closed until further notice by order of Governor Ralph Northam. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Northam orders all Virginia public schools closed for minimum of two weeks|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/state/northam-orders-all-virginia-public-schools-closed-for-minimum-of/article_562aafb8-307b-5b32-bec8-7f4c05e9b48f.html|author=News and Advance Reports|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> Albemarle County will stay closed through at least [[April 10]]. Many businesses and schools have closed and people are urged to limit contact with other people through a phenomenon called "social-distancing." Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being. <ref name="dp319" />
There are at 50 known cases of COVID-19 in the Charlottesville area as of [[March 31]], [[2020]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Tweet|url=https://twitter.com/HealthyTJHD/status/1244740047431249927|author=Thomas Jefferson Health District|work=Tweet|publisher=Thomas Jefferson Health District|location=|publishdate=March 30, 2020|accessdate=March 31, 2020}}</ref> The first fatality in the [[Thomas Jefferson Health District]] was reported on [[March 31]], [[2020]]. <ref name="fatality">{{cite web|title=Tweet|url=https://twitter.com/HealthyTJHD/status/1245052205327138816|author=Thomas Jefferson Health District|work=Tweet|publisher=Thomas Jefferson Health District|location=|publishdate=March 31, 2020|accessdate=March 31, 2020}}</ref> <ref name="dp-fat"> {{cite web|title=Charlottesville area sees first death from COVID-19|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/charlottesville-area-sees-first-death-from-covid-19/article_523759d4-b955-562b-b03a-17bf77f3eddc.html|author=Staff Reports|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Progress|location=|publishdate=March 31, 2020|accessdate=March 31, 2020}}</ref>
 
There are at least four known cases of COVID-19 in the Charlottesville area as of [[March 19]], [[2020]]. <ref name="dp319">{{cite-progress|title=Live local updates: Charlottesville suspends past-due tax collections; more local cases confirmed|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/live-local-updates-charlottesville-suspends-past-due-tax-collections-more/article_4cb70b13-8fe1-5a2a-8857-1f1b6aedf0a5.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 19, 2020|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref> The first case is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus locally,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/craftypanda/status/1240671547553128451|title=Allison Wrabel on Twitter|last=|first=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|publisher=|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|accessdate=2020-03-20}}</ref> contrary to initial reports of the case being travel-related. <ref name="first">{{cite-progress|title=Health department: UVa employee tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/health-department-uva-employee-tests-positive-for-covid/article_578b39be-77d6-5391-80dc-7fcf0277be69.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 17, 2020|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=First Charlottesville resident, a U.Va. Women’s Center employee, tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://www.cavalierdaily.com/article/2020/03/first-charlottesville-resident-a-u-va-womens-center-employee-tests-positive-for-covid-19|author=Kate Bellows|work=News Article|publisher=Cavalier Daily|location=|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>  
 
Philanthropic and volunteer efforts have come together to prepare for what could be a sustained period of disruption. Others are finding ways to help others cope with financial impacts related to the closing of many businesses to contain the spread. This includes arranging volunteers to help look after children now that schools will be closed.
 
Several groups are forming to help coordinate assistance for people in need. These are direct links:


Several groups have formed to help coordinate assistance for people in need. These are direct links:
*[https://www.supportcville.com/ SupportCville]
*[https://www.supportcville.com/ SupportCville]
*[https://www.cacfonline.org/news/detail/community-emergency-response-fund Charlottesville Area Community Foundation]
*[https://www.cacfonline.org/news/detail/community-emergency-response-fund Charlottesville Area Community Foundation]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/500721927287565/ Mutual Aid Infrastructure Facebook page].  
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/500721927287565/ Mutual Aid Infrastructure Facebook page].  
*[https://congregatecville.com/ Congregate Cville]
*[https://congregatecville.com/ Congregate Cville]
*[https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Charlottesville Restaurant Fund Resources Facebook page]
*[https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Charlottesville Restaurant Fund Resources Facebook page]  


Data is released by the Virginia Department of Health once a day, making the impact of the health crisis not fully known. Still, people are encouraged to limit contact with other people for the foreseeable future. In additional to state directives, the Centers for Disease are calling for a nationwide prohibition of gatherings of more than 50 people. <ref>{{cite web|title=Resources for Large Community Events & Mass Gatherings|url=https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html|author=|work=|publisher=Centers for Disease Control|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>
The Virginia Department of Health has set up a hotline for the Thomas Jefferson Health District at 434-972-6261.
 
Charlottesville has a community resource line at 434-234-4490.  
The Virginia Department of Health has set up a hotline for the Thomas Jefferson Health District at 434-972-6261.  


{{current}}
{{current}}


==Latest==
==Latest==
* The first COVID-19 related death was reported on [[March 31]] <ref name="fatality" /> <ref name="dp-fat">
* There are 1,250 confirmed cases in Virginia and 13 confirmed deaths as of [[March 31]], [[2020]], up from 41 cases on Sunday, March 15.  The number is expected to continue to rise. <ref name="ep1">{{cite web|title=March 15, 2020 - Charlottesville COVID-19 Response Episode 1|url=https://soundcloud.com/sean-tubbs/march-15-2020-charlottesville-covid-19-response-episode-1x|author=Sean Tubbs|work=Podcast|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite-progress|title=UPDATES: Va. officials confirm 77 cases of coronavirus, Sentara to suspend drive through tests|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/state/updates-va-officials-confirm-cases-of-coronavirus-sentara-to-suspend/article_508829ca-f831-55dd-9af8-f94dc862ea5b.html|author=Times-Dispatch Staff Reports|pageno=|printdate=March 18, 2020|publishdate=March 18, 2020|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref>
* The UVA Hospital has suspended in-patient visitation <ref name="dp323">{{cite-progress|title=With few exceptions, UVa prohibits visitors to inpatient facilities|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/with-few-exceptions-uva-prohibits-visitors-to-inpatient-facilities/article_a90a9556-cbc0-53df-a45f-a889f7f9156c.html|author=Nolan Stout|pageno=|printdate=March 23, 2020|publishdate=March 23, 2020|accessdate=March 23, 2020}}</ref>
==Local Resources==
*[https://uvahealth.com/services/infectious-disease/coronavirus-faqs FAQ on COVID-19 from UVA Health]
*[https://www.virginia.edu/coronavirus UVA page on COVID-19 response]
*[http://charlottesvilleschools.org/coronavirus/ Charlottesville City schools page on COVID-19]
*[https://www.pvcc.edu/coronavirus-covid-19 Piedmont Virginia Community College page on COVID-19]
*[https://www.k12albemarle.org/acps/division/Pages/COVID-19.aspx Albemarle County Public Schools page on COVID-19]
*[https://files.constantcontact.com/4624df9b001/8b23af80-0049-4107-b314-b4f67f83e34b.pdf Charlottesville's declaration of local emergency from March 12, 2020]
*[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe2F5GjgzYMG2jsqnf_B8RX6Q3PdXr8rssi7sSDR_itvRaYtw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR3JpNSz65cSlJgS0zGJ8Vw3HPclBmzR5efs1seak5X3ox7GInXSHuJa3IQ Daily Progress solicitation of stories to aid their reporting]
*[https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Facebook page for Charlottesville Restaurant Fund]
*[http://www.vec.virginia.gov/node/11699?fbclid=IwAR3vJiB9a9Fs8kF-EszJq9WKiCfL04cd1My2PqWQvBMt3OtY5vyCd1AoR0A Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) information on applying for benefits]
*[https://www.scottsville.org/news/health/ Town of Scottsville page]


* There are 152 cases in Virginia and two confirmed deaths as of [[March 21]], [[2020]], up from 41 on Sunday. <ref>{{cite web|title=Virginia reports first coronavirus death, 41 positive cases|url=https://www.pilotonline.com/news/health/vp-nw--20200314-2tuoc7tpurgpbieoyfjslyx3ie-story.html|author=Sara Gregory|work=News Article|publisher=Virginian-Pilot|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> The number could increase this week as additional capacity from private labs comes online. <ref name="ep1">{{cite web|title=March 15, 2020 - Charlottesville COVID-19 Response Episode 1|url=https://soundcloud.com/sean-tubbs/march-15-2020-charlottesville-covid-19-response-episode-1x|author=Sean Tubbs|work=Podcast|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite-progress|title=UPDATES: Va. officials confirm 77 cases of coronavirus, Sentara to suspend drive through tests|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/state/updates-va-officials-confirm-cases-of-coronavirus-sentara-to-suspend/article_508829ca-f831-55dd-9af8-f94dc862ea5b.html|author=Times-Dispatch Staff Reports|pageno=|printdate=March 18, 2020|publishdate=March 18, 2020|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref>
==Health resources==
*There are now four cases in the Thomas Jefferson Health District. These are not reflected in the 94 cases reported on [[March 19]] <ref name="3more">{{cite-progress|title=Three more COVID-19 cases announced in Charlottesville area|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/three-more-covid--cases-announced-in-charlottesville-area/article_1fc24bad-6143-5f84-9a92-29c72ede6adf.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=|printdate=March 19, 2020|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref> Two are from Charlottesville and one is from Albemarle County <ref>{{cite web|title=TJHD: 3 additional cases of coronavirus in Charlottesville area|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/19/tjhd-additional-cases-coronavirus-charlottesville/|author=Staff reports|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29 News|location=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref>   
 
* Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being <ref name="dp319" />
*[http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/novel-coronavirus/ Virginia Department of Health coronavirus page]
*The State Corporation Commission has "directed regulated electric, natural gas and water companies in Virginia to suspend service disconnections until the coronavirus outbreak subsides." <ref name="scc">{{cite web|title=SCC DIRECTS ELECTRIC, NATURAL GAS AND WATER COMPANIES TO SUSPEND SERVICE DISCONNECTIONS DURING COVID-19 STATE EMERGENCY|url=https://www.scc.virginia.gov/newsrel/r_noshutoff_20.aspx|author=|work=|publisher=State Corporation Commission|location=|publishdate=March 16|accessdate=March 17, 2020}}</ref>
*[https://adaa.org/finding-help/coronavirus-anxiety-helpful-resources?fbclid=IwAR3lp57aW4-DUg0BX7MtY2QcgdYh3RyIRwpXAFt_hosnnHg0mb108mvUqpA Coronavirus Anxiety - Helpful Expert Tips and Resources from Anxiety and Depression Association of America]
*Virginia's public safety agencies announce a suspension of all visitiation in state jails, cessation of prisoner transfers <ref>{{cite web|title=Joint Statement from Public Safety Agencies in
*[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 website]
Virginia|url=https://files.constantcontact.com/4624df9b001/8e90b98e-7e6c-41e5-9ec6-f7e8694c55f3.pdf|author=|work=Joint Statement|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref>
*[https://wtop.com/coronavirus/2020/03/how-to-keep-coronavirus-fears-from-affecting-your-mental-health/ CNN Article on How to keep coronavirus fears from affecting your mental health]
*[https://www.augustahealth.com/coronavirus Augusta Health information on Coronavirus]  
*[https://sentaraupdates.com/ Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital updates]
 
([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfG-q5opkYs&feature=youtu.be CDC Video on Coronavirus]
 
==Local cases==
The first case is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus locally,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/craftypanda/status/1240671547553128451|title=Allison Wrabel on Twitter|last=|first=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|publisher=|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|accessdate=2020-03-20}}</ref> contrary to initial reports of the case being travel-related. <ref name="first">{{cite-progress|title=Health department: UVa employee tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/health-department-uva-employee-tests-positive-for-covid/article_578b39be-77d6-5391-80dc-7fcf0277be69.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 17, 2020|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=First Charlottesville resident, a U.Va. Women’s Center employee, tests positive for COVID-19|url=https://www.cavalierdaily.com/article/2020/03/first-charlottesville-resident-a-u-va-womens-center-employee-tests-positive-for-covid-19|author=Kate Bellows|work=News Article|publisher=Cavalier Daily|location=|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>  
 
Cases in the Thomas Jefferson Health District increased slowly. The state health numbers are lagging behind reports from local districts <ref name="dp323" /> <ref name="3more">{{cite-progress|title=Three more COVID-19 cases announced in Charlottesville area|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/three-more-covid--cases-announced-in-charlottesville-area/article_1fc24bad-6143-5f84-9a92-29c72ede6adf.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=|printdate=March 19, 2020|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref> Two are from Charlottesville and one is from Albemarle County <ref>{{cite web|title=TJHD: 3 additional cases of coronavirus in Charlottesville area|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/19/tjhd-additional-cases-coronavirus-charlottesville/|author=Staff reports|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29 News|location=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref>   
 
The first fatality was reported on [[March 31]], [[2020]]. <ref name="fatality" />
 
==Local PPE==
SupportCville has a held campaign to locate supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) for area doctor's offices and longterm care facilities.
 
The [[Hospice of the Piedmont]] issued a call for donations on [[March 25]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle Co. hospice seeking donations of PPE supplies|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/25/albemarle-co-hospice-seeking-donations-ppesupplies/|author=Staff reports|work=|publisher=WVIR|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


==Local responses==
==Local government responses==


Albemarle County and Charlottesville declared local emergencies on [[March 12]], [[2020]] in order to help coordinate public safety efforts to contain the spread of the disease. This gives officials more flexibility to conduct business. It has resulted in the temporary halt of public meetings as well as the delay of the adoption of the FY21 budget in Albemarle County. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Albemarle, Charlottesville declare local emergencies; schools cancel class March 16|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/albemarle-charlottesville-declare-local-emergencies-schools-cancel-class-march/article_e125e810-d5b6-5489-ae28-04c80da96b73.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 12, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle County, Charlottesville issue Declarations of Local Emergency|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41888713/albemarle-county-issues-declaration-of-local-emergency|author=News staff|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> On March 19, Charlottesville announced it would suspend collection of taxes for the time being.  
Albemarle County and Charlottesville declared local emergencies on [[March 12]], [[2020]] in order to help coordinate public safety efforts to contain the spread of the disease. This gives officials more flexibility to conduct business. It has resulted in the temporary halt of public meetings as well as the delay of the adoption of the FY21 budget in Albemarle County. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Albemarle, Charlottesville declare local emergencies; schools cancel class March 16|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/albemarle-charlottesville-declare-local-emergencies-schools-cancel-class-march/article_e125e810-d5b6-5489-ae28-04c80da96b73.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 12, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle County, Charlottesville issue Declarations of Local Emergency|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41888713/albemarle-county-issues-declaration-of-local-emergency|author=News staff|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> On March 19, Charlottesville announced it would suspend collection of taxes for the time being.  
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* Virginia DMV offices  were ordered closed by Governor Ralph Northam on [[March 17]]
* Virginia DMV offices  were ordered closed by Governor Ralph Northam on [[March 17]]
*the first is one known case of COVID-19 in Charlottesville as of [[March 16]], [[2020]]. The patient is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus while traveling. Her test was processed by a commercial lab.  She is an employee of the Women's Center at the University of Virginia and the facility is being sterilized.  
*the first is one known case of COVID-19 in Charlottesville as of [[March 16]], [[2020]]. The patient is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus while traveling. Her test was processed by a commercial lab.  She is an employee of the Women's Center at the University of Virginia and the facility is being sterilized.  
* Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being <ref name="dp319" />
*Charlottesville Vice Mayor [[Sena Magill]] is in self-quarantine and is awaiting the results of a test <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Charlottesville City Councilor Magill awaiting virus test results|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/charlottesville-city-councilor-magill-awaiting-virus-test-results/article_17957262-26fa-509b-8b5c-78a5a9567867.html|author=Nolan Stout|pageno=|printdate=March 23, 2020|publishdate=March 23, 2020|accessdate=March 23, 2020}}</ref>


===Albemarle County===
[[Albemarle County]] declared an emergency on March 12 and is implementing a multi-phased plan to respond to the incident. The Incident Management team is coordinating a response. <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle County plans for potential coronavirus outbreak|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41880715/albemarle-county-plans-for-potential-coronavirus-outbreak|author=Michael Caldwell|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 11, 2020|accessdate=March 12, 2020}}</ref> The Board of Superiors will delay the budget process until after the crisis is over. <ref name="march15" /> Buildings are closed to the public. <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle closing county office buildings to general public|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41944381/albemarle-closing-county-office-buildings-to-general-public|author=News Staff|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 27, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


===Albemarle County===
Public safety crews have altered operations on rescue missions. <ref>{{cite web|title=Western Albemarle Rescue Squad taking extra precautions due to COVID-19|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/26/western-albemarle-rescue-squad-taking-extra-precautions-due-covid-/|author=Moriah Davis|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29|location=|publishdate=March 25, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>
[[Albemarle County]] is implementing a multi-phased plan to respond to the incident. An Incident Management team is coordinating a response. <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle County plans for potential coronavirus outbreak|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41880715/albemarle-county-plans-for-potential-coronavirus-outbreak|author=Michael Caldwell|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 11, 2020|accessdate=March 12, 2020}}</ref> The Board of Superiors will delay the budget process until after the crisis is over. <ref name="march15" />


Supervisors received a briefing on March 18 and extended the date to adopt a final budget to [[May 14]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=County supervisors delay budget adoption until May|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/county-supervisors-delay-budget-adoption-until-may/article_134cc219-c393-59be-908c-bc5e0573625b.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=|printdate=March 18, 2020|publishdate=March 18, 2020|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref>
Supervisors adopted a draft continuity of governance ordinance on [[March 27]]. <ref name="continuity">{{cite web|title=EMERGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 20-E(2)|url=https://albemarle.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=8221685&GUID=DBEDFB63-CC68-454A-AD80-C547643DE4A9|author=|work=|publisher=Albemarle County|location=|publishdate=March 27, 2020|accessdate=March 28, 2020}}</ref> At a briefing on [[March 18]], Supervisors extended the date to adopt a final budget to [[May 14]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=County supervisors delay budget adoption until May|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/county-supervisors-delay-budget-adoption-until-may/article_134cc219-c393-59be-908c-bc5e0573625b.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=|printdate=March 18, 2020|publishdate=March 18, 2020|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref> Supervisors will pioneer taking comment from the public remotely at their April 1, 2020 meeting. <ref>{{cite web|title=Program to allow Albemarle residents to comment on agenda items|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41944252/program-to-allow-albemarle-residents-to-comment-on-agenda-items|author=News Staff|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


The Town of [[Scottsville]] is following Albemarle's plan. <ref>{{cite web|title=Scottsville mayor, town administrator address COVID-19 preparations|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41886593/scottsville-mayor-town-administrator-address-covid19-preparations|author=Michael Caldwell|work=|publisher=CBS19 News|location=|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> They have declared their own local emergency.
The Town of [[Scottsville]] is following Albemarle's plan. <ref>{{cite web|title=Scottsville mayor, town administrator address COVID-19 preparations|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41886593/scottsville-mayor-town-administrator-address-covid19-preparations|author=Michael Caldwell|work=|publisher=CBS19 News|location=|publishdate=March 12, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref> They have declared their own local emergency.


Albemarle Board of Supervisors will delay adoption of the budget for FY21 past the scheduled date of [[April 20]] <ref name="march15">{{cite-progress|title=Library system, some local businesses closing doors|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/library-system-some-local-businesses-closing-doors/article_0d978f4a-eea4-5707-b627-20ff6bcbc982.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=A1|printdate=March 16, 2020|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> The Albemarle Board of Supervisors will hold a budget work session on [[March 17]] and a regular meeting on [[March 18]] but the public is encouraged to watch from home <ref name="march15" />
<ref name="march15">{{cite-progress|title=Library system, some local businesses closing doors|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/library-system-some-local-businesses-closing-doors/article_0d978f4a-eea4-5707-b627-20ff6bcbc982.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=A1|printdate=March 16, 2020|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref> The Albemarle Board of Supervisors held a work session on [[March 17]] and a regular meeting on [[March 18]] but public attendance was restricted to watch from home <ref name="march15" />


[http://www.albemarle.org/department.asp?department=broadband&relpage=22100 Albemarle County is opening up parking lots for public wi-fi].


===Charlottesville===
===Charlottesville===
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===Surrounding counties===
===Surrounding counties===
Augusta Health in Fishersville has indicated they are prepared for an outbreak in the Shenandoah Valley. <ref>{{cite web|title=Augusta Health prepares for possible coronavirus outbreak|url=https://www.newsvirginian.com/news/local/augusta-health-prepares-for-possible-coronavirus-outbreak/article_66a6cbdf-da04-568d-97aa-d2fc66d74791.html|author=Rebecca J. Barnabi|work=News Article|publisher=The News-Virginian|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> 
*[https://www.greenecountyva.gov/forms/documents/2203-press-release-adjustments-002/file Greene County March 19 press release on changes to operations]


===Impact on school children===
===Schools impact===


The announcement of the closure of schools on [[March 13]] immediately prompted many to begin to think about what to do for children for whom school lunches may be the only regular mealtimes. That's potentially thousands of young people in Albemarle and Charlottesville. The city school system is planning on a meals program. The [[PB&J Fund]] is also seeking volunteers and donations and will distribute food on [[March 16]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Area schools brace for two-week closure|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/area-schools-brace-for-two-week-closure/article_a3ae8f95-2008-5750-b0e4-032a950f76ba.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=A1|printdate=March 14, 2020|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> People have stepped up to volunteer for Monday. <ref>{{cite web|title=Volunteer Sign-up for Lunch Distribution|url=https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040849a5ab22a6fb6-volunteer|author=|work=Sign up sheet|publisher=|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
The announcement of the closure of schools on [[March 13]] immediately prompted many to begin to think about what to do for children for whom school lunches may be the only regular mealtimes. That is potentially thousands of young people in Albemarle and Charlottesville. The city school system is planning on a meals program. The [[PB&J Fund]] sought volunteers and donations to distribute food on [[March 16]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Area schools brace for two-week closure|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/area-schools-brace-for-two-week-closure/article_a3ae8f95-2008-5750-b0e4-032a950f76ba.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=A1|printdate=March 14, 2020|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=Volunteer Sign-up for Lunch Distribution|url=https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040849a5ab22a6fb6-volunteer|author=|work=Sign up sheet|publisher=|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>


Charlottesville City Schools are looking for volunteers to sign up to help distribute food beginning [[March 17]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=CCS Food Distribution|url=https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e084ba4af2ca4f85-ccsfood|author=|work=|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> Albemarle will offer the same service at several locations throughout the county beginning on March 17.   
Charlottesville City Schools are looking for volunteers to sign up to help distribute food beginning [[March 17]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=CCS Food Distribution|url=https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e084ba4af2ca4f85-ccsfood|author=|work=|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> Albemarle will offer the same service at several locations throughout the county beginning on March 17.   
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Virginia is seeking a federal waiver to cancel this years Standards of Learning tests. <ref>{{cite web|title=Virginia to seek SOL waiver|url=https://www.suffolknewsherald.com/2020/03/20/virginia-to-seek-sol-waiver/|author=Staff Reports|work=News Article|publisher=Suffolk News-Herald|location=Suffolk, VA|March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 22, 2020}}</ref>   
Virginia is seeking a federal waiver to cancel this years Standards of Learning tests. <ref>{{cite web|title=Virginia to seek SOL waiver|url=https://www.suffolknewsherald.com/2020/03/20/virginia-to-seek-sol-waiver/|author=Staff Reports|work=News Article|publisher=Suffolk News-Herald|location=Suffolk, VA|March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 22, 2020}}</ref>   


Albemarle expanded its meal distribution program on March 25. <ref>{{cite web|title=Albemarle County lunch program during coronavirus shutdown expands|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/25/albemarle-county-lunch-program-during-coronavirus-shutdown-expands/|author=Lottye Lockheart|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29|location=Charlottesville, VA|publishdate=March 25, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>
   
   
[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/guidance-for-schools.html The federal Centers for Disease Control have a website on recommended school policies]
[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/guidance-for-schools.html The federal Centers for Disease Control have a website on recommended school policies]
Albemarle and Charlottesville have delivered nearly 8,000 meals between [[March 17]] and [[March 24]]. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Local schools hand out nearly 8k meals in first week|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/local-schools-hand-out-nearly-k-meals-in-first-week/article_a34e11b7-e607-508b-bd05-56181b1befb8.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=|printdate=March 24, 2020|publishdate=March 23, 2020|accessdate=March 24, 2020}}</ref>
====Resources for parents====
====Resources for parents====


*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FFxBbWT7ARSOXMGc5ITYt7y3uD_swEGZPNVtJQYSiH4/edit?fbclid=IwAR0TtYYQG0O32yPpzfRK5o3BV3MUiZgIufL25iOy5yqvd1LNHGv4ZaF8Wbs Resources for pre-K and elementary students compiled by a Charlottesville teacher]
*[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FFxBbWT7ARSOXMGc5ITYt7y3uD_swEGZPNVtJQYSiH4/edit?fbclid=IwAR0TtYYQG0O32yPpzfRK5o3BV3MUiZgIufL25iOy5yqvd1LNHGv4ZaF8Wbs Resources for pre-K and elementary students compiled by a Charlottesville teacher]
Albemarle County is seeking ways to move instruction online for the rest of the academic year. There will be no grades, however. <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Albemarle school division outlines initial plans for learning during COVID-19 closure|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/albemarle-school-division-outlines-initial-plans-for-learning-during-covid/article_9eff9dfc-ce5f-5627-93b0-ae7291c51216.html|author=Katherine Knott|pageno=|printdate=March 26, 2020|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


===Effects on local business===
===Effects on local business===
[https://www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-a-g/economic-development?fbclid=IwAR0-eBBnZUEUc2-8AYqeSqL4nDp6wso6Nzi1_QDY4B7-dm9ScfRagf1xg5I The City of Charlottesville's Economic Development Department have set up a resource page for affected businesses.]
[https://cvilleinnovation.org/news/blog/leadership/practical-advice-for-startups-and-businesses-to-persevere The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council published a list of financial resources on March 29, 2020]
Authorities have called for social distancing which immediately began to have an effect on people moving around the community but also prompted a debate over whether enough people are heeding the call. That began to change on Sunday, [[March 15]] as restaurants such as [[Rapture]] and [[Zocalo]] closed in advance of potential government-mandated shutdowns. <ref name="march15" /> Others remain open for delivery.  
Authorities have called for social distancing which immediately began to have an effect on people moving around the community but also prompted a debate over whether enough people are heeding the call. That began to change on Sunday, [[March 15]] as restaurants such as [[Rapture]] and [[Zocalo]] closed in advance of potential government-mandated shutdowns. <ref name="march15" /> Others remain open for delivery.  


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* Many retail stores on the [[Downtown Mall]] began posting signs on March 15 saying they would close until further notice. <ref>{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/craftypanda/status/1239240942638555137|author=Allison Wrabel|work=Tweet|publisher=Twitter|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref>  These include Blue Whale Books, O'Suzannah, Rock Paper Scissors and J. Fenton TOO.  
* Many retail stores on the [[Downtown Mall]] began posting signs on March 15 saying they would close until further notice. <ref>{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/craftypanda/status/1239240942638555137|author=Allison Wrabel|work=Tweet|publisher=Twitter|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref>  These include Blue Whale Books, O'Suzannah, Rock Paper Scissors and J. Fenton TOO.  
* The [[Jefferson Madison Regional Library]] closed at 6 p.m. on Monday, [[March 16]], [[2020]] for further notice and operated on a limited schedule on Sunday, March 15, 2020. <ref>{{cite web|title=JMRL's COVID-19 RESPONSE|url=https://jmrl.org/covid19.html|author=|work=|publisher=Jefferson Madison Regional Library|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> University of Virginia libraries were open until [[March 18]] <ref>{{cite web|title=COVID-19: Library Resources|url=https://www.library.virginia.edu/news/covid-19|author=|work=|publisher=University of Virginia Law Library|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 22, 2020}}</ref>
* The [[Jefferson Madison Regional Library]] closed at 6 p.m. on Monday, [[March 16]], [[2020]] for further notice and operated on a limited schedule on Sunday, March 15, 2020. <ref>{{cite web|title=JMRL's COVID-19 RESPONSE|url=https://jmrl.org/covid19.html|author=|work=|publisher=Jefferson Madison Regional Library|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> University of Virginia libraries were open until [[March 18]] <ref>{{cite web|title=COVID-19: Library Resources|url=https://www.library.virginia.edu/news/covid-19|author=|work=|publisher=University of Virginia Law Library|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 22, 2020}}</ref>


====Restaurants====
====Restaurants====


* [[Charlottesville 29]] urges people to order gift cards from restaurants to support them in the short-term <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville Restaurants: Here’s How You Can Help Save Them|url=https://charlottesville29.com/2020/03/14/charlottesville-restaurants-heres-how-you-can-help-save-them/|author=|work=Blog post|publisher=Charlottesville 29|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
* [[Charlottesville 29]] urges people to order gift cards from restaurants to support them in the short-term <ref>{{cite web|title=Charlottesville Restaurants: Here’s How You Can Help Save Them|url=https://charlottesville29.com/2020/03/14/charlottesville-restaurants-heres-how-you-can-help-save-them/|author=|work=Blog post|publisher=Charlottesville 29|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
* Another website called Support Cville has been created to be an active directory of how to help restaurant workers. [https://www.supportcville.com/ Support Cville website]
* A Go Fund Me account was launched to help local restaurant workers who will be affected by the shutdown of regular business [https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community/donate [https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community/donate (Link to Go Fund Me Page)] <ref>{{cite web|title=
* A Go Fund Me account was launched to help local restaurant workers who will be affected by the shutdown of regular business [https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community/donate [https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community/donate (Link to Go Fund Me Page)] <ref>{{cite web|title=
Charlottesville Restaurant Community Fund|url=https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&fbclid=IwAR1FZ_BRtL3pFc2I7mQEreE6N50yOSxkeF3_NxSxk12gOmfFw1ktaWDcXq4|author=Kaitlin Elwood|work=Go Fund Me page|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> This effort has also launched a [https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Facebook page].
Charlottesville Restaurant Community Fund|url=https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&fbclid=IwAR1FZ_BRtL3pFc2I7mQEreE6N50yOSxkeF3_NxSxk12gOmfFw1ktaWDcXq4|author=Kaitlin Elwood|work=Go Fund Me page|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> This effort has also launched a [https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Facebook page].
* The owner of Rapture wrote in a Facebook post on the afternoon of March 15 that the restaurant would close indefinitely. "I am doing this because it is irresponsible to continue to offer a venue for people to interact socially and to therefore provide an environment for COVID-19 to spread. Its spread, the consequence for human life, and the economy, is inevitable. But each person needs to step up now, and begin to engage in the only behavior that will turn the tide on this: self-isolating."  
* The owner of Rapture wrote in a Facebook post on the afternoon of March 15 that the restaurant would close indefinitely. "I am doing this because it is irresponsible to continue to offer a venue for people to interact socially and to therefore provide an environment for COVID-19 to spread. Its spread, the consequence for human life, and the economy, is inevitable. But each person needs to step up now, and begin to engage in the only behavior that will turn the tide on this: self-isolating."  
*Some restaurants remained open on March 16, but some began to close throughout the day. [[Blue Moon Diner]] opted to close that afternoon. <ref>{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/BlueMoonDiner1/status/1239600730622828545|author=|work=Tweet|publisher=Blue Moon Diner|location=|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>  
*Some restaurants remained open on March 16, but some began to close throughout the day. [[Blue Moon Diner]] opted to close that afternoon. <ref>{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/BlueMoonDiner1/status/1239600730622828545|author=|work=Tweet|publisher=Blue Moon Diner|location=|publishdate=March 16, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>  
*Brazo's Tacos had gone to curbside service but made the decision on [[March 20]] to close indefinitely <ref name="brazo">{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/BrazosTacos/status/1241007492592816129|author=Brazo's Tacos|work=Tweet|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 20, 2020}}</ref>  
*Brazo's Tacos had gone to curbside service but made the decision on [[March 20]] to close indefinitely <ref name="brazo">{{cite web|title=|url=https://twitter.com/BrazosTacos/status/1241007492592816129|author=Brazo's Tacos|work=Tweet|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 20, 2020}}</ref> Blue Moon would open to curbside pick-up later in the month.


====Churches====
====Churches====
Many places of worship did not hold services on [[March 15]] to help prevent the spread of the norel coronavirus. Those that meet in public schools already knew they could not hold services because of rules that prohibited meetings of up to 100 people. That included the [[Charlottesville Community Church]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Coronavirus page|url=https://www.cvillechurch.org/ccc-update-regarding-coronavirus/|author=|work=|publisher=Charlottesville Community Church|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> Others such as [[First Presbyterian Church]] have suspended all activities through [[March 27]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=ACTIVITIES AT FIRST PRES SUSPENDED THROUGH MARCH 27 DUE TO COVID-19 CONCERNS|url=https://www.firstprescharlottesville.org/announcements|author=|work=|publisher=First Presbyterian Church|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> Other institutions such as the Church of the Incarnation held services but with precautions.
Many places of worship did not hold services on [[March 15]] to help prevent the spread of the norel coronavirus. Those that meet in public schools already knew they could not hold services because of rules that prohibited meetings of up to 100 people. That included the [[Charlottesville Community Church]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Coronavirus page|url=https://www.cvillechurch.org/ccc-update-regarding-coronavirus/|author=|work=|publisher=Charlottesville Community Church|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> Others such as [[First Presbyterian Church]] have suspended all activities through [[March 27]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=ACTIVITIES AT FIRST PRES SUSPENDED THROUGH MARCH 27 DUE TO COVID-19 CONCERNS|url=https://www.firstprescharlottesville.org/announcements|author=|work=|publisher=First Presbyterian Church|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref> Other institutions such as the Church of the Incarnation held services but with precautions.


==State impacts==
==State response==
Attorney General Mark Herring asked the State Corporation Commission in an emergency petition to require utility companies to halt disconnects for non-payment. <ref>{{cite web|title=ATTORNEY GENERAL HERRING SEEKS TO HALT UTILITY DISCONNECTIONS DURING STATE OF EMERGENCY|url=https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/1658-march-13-2020-herring-seeks-to-halt-utility-disconnections-during-state-of-emergency|author=Charlotte Gomer|work=Press Release|publisher=Office of the Virginia Attorney General|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> Dominion announced the same day they would suspend disconnections. <ref>{{cite web|title=Coronavirus Update|url=https://www.dominionenergy.com/company/coronavirus|author=|work=Press Release|publisher=Dominion Energy|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
 
The Virginia Employment Commission has prepared information for people who have been laid off or will be laid off in the coming weeks. A person has to actually be laid off or had hours reduced before they are eligible to apply for benefits. The maximum weekly benefit amount in Virginia is $378. <ref>{{cite web|title=Attention Workers Whose Job Has Been Affected by the Coronavirus|url=http://www.vec.virginia.gov/node/11699?fbclid=IwAR3vJiB9a9Fs8kF-EszJq9WKiCfL04cd1My2PqWQvBMt3OtY5vyCd1AoR0A|author=|work=|publisher=Virginia Employment Commission|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref>
 
===Testing===
===Testing===
There have been questions about the ability of the state to test enough people. The official number is reported by the Virginia Department of Health each day at 9 a.m.


One issue is how the Virginia Department of Health is coming up with the figures for confirmed cases. On Tuesday, March 17, the number edged up to 67 out of 1,027 official tests. That number was up from 41 from the day before, when Northam had announced the first death from COVID-19.  
Additional testing capacity comes from private companies. Results have been taking long to get back.  


The person overseeing the state's response to the pandemic is Dr. Norm Oliver, the Virginia Health Commissioner. On March 15, he said the number of cases will be increasing.
The University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University have both developed tests. <ref>{{cite web|title=Expanded testing — and faster turnaround times — offer glimmer of hope in Virginia’s fight against COVID-19|url=https://www.virginiamercury.com/2020/03/25/expanded-testing-and-faster-turnaround-times-offer-glimmer-of-hope-in-virginias-fight-against-covid-19/|author=Kate Masters|work=News Article|publisher=Virginia Mercury|location=|publishdate=March 25, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref> <ref>{{cite web|title=Norfolk District teams to evaluate facilities for use as alternate-care-sites in Virginia|url=https://www.nao.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Stories/Article/2124140/norfolk-district-teams-to-evaluate-facilities-for-use-as-alternate-care-sites-i/|author=Patrick Bloodgood|work=News Article|publisher=Army Corps of Engineers Norfolk District|location=|publishdate=March 25, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


"When we identify a case we do what we call contact investigation and we are looking into hundreds of contacts of these cases to trace down any new cases and to isolate them when we find them. We do know there will be new cases," Oliver said.
In the last week of March, Virginia lagged behind many other nearby the states in the number of residents who had been tested. <ref>{{cite web|title=Virginia’s coronavirus testing lags behind most states. That could be a big problem.
|url=https://www.dailypress.com/news/health/vp-nw-coronavirus-virginia-testing-behind-20200326-hul7xab3xjhkxdqpar2xtuyvyu-story.html|author=Peter Coutu|work=News Article|publisher=Daily Press|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


Oliver said officials are concerned most with the peninsula region where there were eight cases and about 300 contacts that were being investigated as of Sunday, March 16.
===PPE===


Oliver said the state lab had between 500 and 600 tests available as of Sunday afternoon, and private labs are also providing testing to people in Virginia.
===Medical capacity===
There are concerns that Virginia does not have enough medical beds. <ref>{{cite web|title=Va. hospitals projected to run out of beds within 6 months|url=https://www.virginiabusiness.com/article/all-va-hospital-regions-projected-to-max-out-bed-capacity-within-6-months/|author=Sydney Lake|work=News Article|publisher=Virginia Business|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


"Many tests right now are pending and we will keep you informed as new results come in," Oliver said.
The Army Corps of Engineers is investigating sites for potential military hospitals. <ref>{{cite web|title=Army Corps to begin identifying Virginia locations for temporary hospitals|url=https://www.virginiamercury.com/blog-va/army-corps-to-begin-identifying-virginia-locations-for-temporary-hospitals/|author=Sarah Vogelsong|work=News Article|publisher=Virginia Mercury|location=|publishdate=March 25, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


Henry Graff, a former NBC29 reporter who now works for WTVR in Richmond, pressed for more information on the number of tests.  
In late March, a dormitory at Virginia Commonwealth University was converted to a temporary hospital, with student belongings transferred to storage. <ref>{{cite web|title=VCU Students Caught Off Guard by Dormitory Turned Medical Facility|url=https://vpm.org/news/articles/11909/vcu-students-caught-off-guard-by-dormitory-turned-medical-facility|author=VPM News|work=News Article|publisher=Virginia Public Media|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


The tests right now are certified by the state Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. Here's the director, Doctor Denise Toney.
===Unemployment===
46,885 Virginians filed unemployment claims for the week ending [[March 21]]. <ref>{{cite web|title=Jobless claims spike in Virginia after coronavirus outbreak|url=https://apnews.com/995bab6ac1a948fe7efd4e9943a586df|author=News Article|work=|publisher=Associated Press|location=|publishdate=March 26, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


"With respect to test kits, we have recently updated our numbers and we have the capacity to perform tests up to 370 to 470 individuals," Toney said." We have orders that have already been placed with CDC and we are hopeful that we will get additional test kits next week and we are also looking into other ways that we can optimize the number of tests that we can provide for the Commonwealth."
===Relief for Virginians===
Attorney General Mark Herring asked the State Corporation Commission in an emergency petition to require utility companies to halt disconnects for non-payment. <ref>{{cite web|title=ATTORNEY GENERAL HERRING SEEKS TO HALT UTILITY DISCONNECTIONS DURING STATE OF EMERGENCY|url=https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/1658-march-13-2020-herring-seeks-to-halt-utility-disconnections-during-state-of-emergency|author=Charlotte Gomer|work=Press Release|publisher=Office of the Virginia Attorney General|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref> Dominion announced the same day they would suspend disconnections. <ref>{{cite web|title=Coronavirus Update|url=https://www.dominionenergy.com/company/coronavirus|author=|work=Press Release|publisher=Dominion Energy|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>


Governor Northam realized that Doctor Toney had forgotten a piece of information.
The Virginia Employment Commission has prepared information for people who have been laid off or will be laid off in the coming weeks. A person has to actually be laid off or had hours reduced before they are eligible to apply for benefits. The maximum weekly benefit amount in Virginia is $378. <ref>{{cite web|title=Attention Workers Whose Job Has Been Affected by the Coronavirus|url=http://www.vec.virginia.gov/node/11699?fbclid=IwAR3vJiB9a9Fs8kF-EszJq9WKiCfL04cd1My2PqWQvBMt3OtY5vyCd1AoR0A|author=|work=|publisher=Virginia Employment Commission|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 15, 2020}}</ref>
 
*The State Corporation Commission has "directed regulated electric, natural gas and water companies in Virginia to suspend service disconnections until the coronavirus outbreak subsides." <ref name="scc">{{cite web|title=SCC DIRECTS ELECTRIC, NATURAL GAS AND WATER COMPANIES TO SUSPEND SERVICE DISCONNECTIONS DURING COVID-19 STATE EMERGENCY|url=https://www.scc.virginia.gov/newsrel/r_noshutoff_20.aspx|author=|work=|publisher=State Corporation Commission|location=|publishdate=March 16|accessdate=March 17, 2020}}</ref>
"The testing that is conducted at the state lab is performed in close consultation with the Virginia Department of Health and testing at our facility is only done on those individuals that the Health Department has investigated and has approved at our facility. There are other individuals within the Commonwealth that are receiving testing and much of that testing is being done at the private sector." <ref name="ep1" />
*Virginia's public safety agencies announce a suspension of all visitation in state jails, cessation of prisoner transfers <ref>{{cite web|title=Joint Statement from Public Safety Agencies in
 
Virginia|url=https://files.constantcontact.com/4624df9b001/8e90b98e-7e6c-41e5-9ec6-f7e8694c55f3.pdf|author=|work=Joint Statement|publisher=|location=|publishdate=March 19, 2020|accessdate=March 19, 2020}}</ref>
The first case in Charlottesville came through a test processed by a commercial laboratory. <ref name="first" />
 
''This section will be updated throughout the day to reflect new information from Governor Ralph Northam's March 17, 2020 press conference.''


===Price gouging===
===Price gouging===
Line 150: Line 188:
*[[March 13]] &ndash; [[Center]] announces it will close until further notice<ref>{{cite web|title=The Center will close to the public at 4:30 PM on Friday, March 13|url=https://thecentercville.org/coronavirus-update|author=|work=|publisher=Center|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref>   
*[[March 13]] &ndash; [[Center]] announces it will close until further notice<ref>{{cite web|title=The Center will close to the public at 4:30 PM on Friday, March 13|url=https://thecentercville.org/coronavirus-update|author=|work=|publisher=Center|location=|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref>   
*[[March 13]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville Area Community Foundation]] launches emergency relief fund to help those who will be affected by closures of public spaces and schools <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Community foundation launches emergency relief fund|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/community-foundation-launches-emergency-relief-fund/article_7608ae52-a869-5829-8b8f-83387b703bc2.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 13]] &ndash; [[Charlottesville Area Community Foundation]] launches emergency relief fund to help those who will be affected by closures of public spaces and schools <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Community foundation launches emergency relief fund|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/community-foundation-launches-emergency-relief-fund/article_7608ae52-a869-5829-8b8f-83387b703bc2.html|author=Staff reports|pageno=|printdate=March 13, 2020|publishdate=March 13, 2020|accessdate=March 13, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 14]] &ndash; Virginia reports first COVID-19 related fatality <ref>{{cite web|title=Virginia reports first coronavirus death, 41 positive cases|url=https://www.pilotonline.com/news/health/vp-nw--20200314-2tuoc7tpurgpbieoyfjslyx3ie-story.html|author=Sara Gregory|work=News Article|publisher=Virginian-Pilot|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 14]] &ndash; Foot traffic continued on the [[Downtown Mall]] as some continue to go out about life normally <ref>{{cite web|title=People and students in Charlottesville react to social distancing recommendations|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/14/people-students-charlottesville-react-social-distancing-recommendations/|author=Daniel Grimes and C.J. Paschall|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 14]] &ndash; Foot traffic continued on the [[Downtown Mall]] as some continue to go out about life normally <ref>{{cite web|title=People and students in Charlottesville react to social distancing recommendations|url=https://www.nbc29.com/2020/03/14/people-students-charlottesville-react-social-distancing-recommendations/|author=Daniel Grimes and C.J. Paschall|work=News Article|publisher=WVIR NBC29|location=|publishdate=March 14, 2020|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 15]] &ndash; Delegate [[Sally Hudson]] holds Facebook Live town hall at 7 pm <ref>{{cite web|title=Digital Town Hall|url=https://www.facebook.com/events/s/digital-town-hall/649839462468296/|author=|work=Facebook Event|publisher=|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 15]] &ndash; Delegate [[Sally Hudson]] holds Facebook Live town hall at 7 pm <ref>{{cite web|title=Digital Town Hall|url=https://www.facebook.com/events/s/digital-town-hall/649839462468296/|author=|work=Facebook Event|publisher=|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 14, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 15]] &ndash; In additional to state directives, the Centers for Disease are calling for a nationwide prohibition of gatherings of more than 50 people. <ref>{{cite web|title=Resources for Large Community Events & Mass Gatherings|url=https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html|author=|work=|publisher=Centers for Disease Control|location=|publishdate=March 15, 2020|accessdate=March 16, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 16]] &ndash; Thomas Jefferson Health District confirms first COVID-19 case in Charlottesville  
*[[March 16]] &ndash; Thomas Jefferson Health District confirms first COVID-19 case in Charlottesville  
*[[March 17]] &ndash; Charlottesville City Schools will begin distributing meals to children in bag lunches <ref name="food" />
*[[March 17]] &ndash; Charlottesville City Schools will begin distributing meals to children in bag lunches <ref name="food" />
*[[March 18]] &ndash; University of Virginia students must be moved out of residence halls <ref>{{cite web|title=STUDENTS EXPERIENCE MELANCHOLY MOMENTS AS THEY LEAVE ‘EERIE’ GROUNDS|url=https://news.virginia.edu/content/students-experience-melancholy-moments-they-leave-eerie-grounds|author=Jane Kelly|work=News Article|publisher=UVA Today|location=|publishdate=March 16|accessdate=March 17, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 18]] &ndash; University of Virginia students must be moved out of residence halls <ref>{{cite web|title=STUDENTS EXPERIENCE MELANCHOLY MOMENTS AS THEY LEAVE ‘EERIE’ GROUNDS|url=https://news.virginia.edu/content/students-experience-melancholy-moments-they-leave-eerie-grounds|author=Jane Kelly|work=News Article|publisher=UVA Today|location=|publishdate=March 16|accessdate=March 17, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 18]] &ndash; Virginia Department of Environmental Quality suspends fieldwork for two weeks <ref>{{cite web|title=DEQ suspends routine fieldwork but will continue pipeline monitoring through contractors|url=https://www.virginiamercury.com/2020/03/20/deq-suspends-routine-fieldwork-but-will-continue-pipeline-monitoring-through-contractors/|author=Sarah Vogelsong|work=News Article|publisher=Virginia Mercury|location=|publishdate=March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 20]] &ndash; [[Brazo's Tacos]] announces indefinite closure after having tried curbside service <ref name="brazo" />
*[[March 20]] &ndash; [[Brazo's Tacos]] announces indefinite closure after having tried curbside service <ref name="brazo" />
*[[March 20]] &ndash; Albemarle Police Chief Ron Lantz announces that a police officer tested positive for COVID-19 <ref>{{cite webAlbemarle police employee tests positive; local total now 7|title=|url=https://www.starexponent.com/news/albemarle-police-employee-tests-positive-local-total-now/article_aac278f0-97f6-5e42-9561-e627179c0301.html|author=Staff reports|work=News Article|publisher=Culpeper Star Exponent|location=|publishdate=March 21, 2020|accessdate=March 23, 2020}}</ref> 
*[[March 20]] &ndash; [[Community Area Community Foundation]] announces more than $2 million has been raised <ref>{{cite web|title=Community Emergency Response Fund raises more than $2 million|url=https://www.cbs19news.com/story/41923416/community-emergency-response-fund-raises-more-than-dollar2-million|author=Staff Reports|work=News Article|publisher=CBS19|location=|publishdate=March 20, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 24]] &ndash; [[Greene County]] Board of Supervisors expected to meet to reaffirm local emergency <ref>{{cite web|title=Agenda for March 24, 2020 Greene County Board of Supervisors meeting|url=http://gcva.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=1&event_id=275
*[[March 24]] &ndash; [[Greene County]] Board of Supervisors expected to meet to reaffirm local emergency <ref>{{cite web|title=Agenda for March 24, 2020 Greene County Board of Supervisors meeting|url=http://gcva.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=1&event_id=275
|author=Clerk of Greene County Board of Supervisors|work=Agenda|publisher=Greene County|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref>
|author=Clerk of Greene County Board of Supervisors|work=Agenda|publisher=Greene County|location=|publishdate=|accessdate=March 18, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 27]] &ndash; Albemarle County adopts continuity of governance ordinance <ref name="continuity">
*[[March 27]] &ndash; [[Collonades]] writes letter acknowledging presences of COVID-19 in facility <ref>{{cite-progress|title=Virus hits second area senior-living facility|url=https://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/virus-hits-second-area-senior-living-facility/article_199fd7d1-5c4e-5ba3-a816-e11aa42f63cc.html|author=Allison Wrabel|pageno=|printdate=March 28, 2020|publishdate=March 29, 2020|accessdate=March 29, 2020}}</ref>
*[[March 31]] &ndash;First fatality is reported in the Thomas Jefferson Health District <ref name="dp-fat" />
*[[April 26]] &ndash; General Assembly is expected to return
*[[April 26]] &ndash; General Assembly is expected to return


Line 183: Line 229:
*[https://covid-19-in-charlottesville.simplecast.com/ COVID-19 in Charlottesville podcast]
*[https://covid-19-in-charlottesville.simplecast.com/ COVID-19 in Charlottesville podcast]


==Local Resources==
*[https://uvahealth.com/services/infectious-disease/coronavirus-faqs FAQ on COVID-19 from UVA Health]
*[https://www.virginia.edu/coronavirus UVA page on COVID-19 response]
*[http://charlottesvilleschools.org/coronavirus/ Charlottesville City schools page on COVID-19]
*[https://www.pvcc.edu/coronavirus-covid-19 Piedmont Virginia Community College page on COVID-19]
*[https://www.k12albemarle.org/acps/division/Pages/COVID-19.aspx Albemarle County Public Schools page on COVID-19]
*[https://files.constantcontact.com/4624df9b001/8b23af80-0049-4107-b314-b4f67f83e34b.pdf Charlottesville's declaration of local emergency from March 12, 2020]
*[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe2F5GjgzYMG2jsqnf_B8RX6Q3PdXr8rssi7sSDR_itvRaYtw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR3JpNSz65cSlJgS0zGJ8Vw3HPclBmzR5efs1seak5X3ox7GInXSHuJa3IQ Daily Progress solicitation of stories to aid their reporting]
*[https://www.facebook.com/Charlottesville-Restaurant-FundResources-103989014568347/ Facebook page for Charlottesville Restaurant Fund]
*[http://www.vec.virginia.gov/node/11699?fbclid=IwAR3vJiB9a9Fs8kF-EszJq9WKiCfL04cd1My2PqWQvBMt3OtY5vyCd1AoR0A Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) information on applying for benefits]
==Health resources==
*[http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/novel-coronavirus/ Virginia Department of Health coronavirus page]
*[https://adaa.org/finding-help/coronavirus-anxiety-helpful-resources?fbclid=IwAR3lp57aW4-DUg0BX7MtY2QcgdYh3RyIRwpXAFt_hosnnHg0mb108mvUqpA Coronavirus Anxiety - Helpful Expert Tips and Resources from Anxiety and Depression Association of America]
*[https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 website]
*[https://wtop.com/coronavirus/2020/03/how-to-keep-coronavirus-fears-from-affecting-your-mental-health/ CNN Article on How to keep coronavirus fears from affecting your mental health]
*[https://www.augustahealth.com/coronavirus Augusta Health information on Coronavirus]
*[https://sentaraupdates.com/ Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital updates]
([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfG-q5opkYs&feature=youtu.be CDC Video on Coronavirus]


===Medical capacity===
===Medical capacity===
Line 230: Line 254:
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/500721927287565/ Mutual Aid Infrastructure Facebook page]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/500721927287565/ Mutual Aid Infrastructure Facebook page]
*[https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-interview-larry-brilliant-smallpox-epidemiologist/ Interview with Larry Brilliant, renowned epidemiologist]
*[https://www.wired.com/story/coronavirus-interview-larry-brilliant-smallpox-epidemiologist/ Interview with Larry Brilliant, renowned epidemiologist]
*[https://www.vpap.org/covid-19/ Virginia Public Access Project page on COVID-19 cases in Virginia]

Revision as of 18:28, 31 March 2020

The COVID-19 Emergency is an ongoing crisis to contain the coronavirus that has impacted all aspects of life in the greater Charlottesville region and the world. Since March 12, people have been recommended to limit contacts with others to stop the infection from expanding to the point where hospitals are overwhelmed. That was the day Virginia Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency. A stay at home order was declared on March 30, 2020. [1] [2]

Local schools are closed through the end of the school year. [3] Many businesses have closed and people are required to limit contact with other people through a phenomenon called "social-distancing." Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being. [4]

There are at 50 known cases of COVID-19 in the Charlottesville area as of March 31, 2020. [5] The first fatality in the Thomas Jefferson Health District was reported on March 31, 2020. [6] [7]

Several groups have formed to help coordinate assistance for people in need. These are direct links:

The Virginia Department of Health has set up a hotline for the Thomas Jefferson Health District at 434-972-6261. Charlottesville has a community resource line at 434-234-4490.


Ambox notice.png This article documents a current event. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses.

Latest

  • The first COVID-19 related death was reported on March 31 [6] Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag [8]
  • The UVA Hospital has suspended in-patient visitation [9]

Local Resources

Health resources

(CDC Video on Coronavirus

Local cases

The first case is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus locally,[10] contrary to initial reports of the case being travel-related. [11] [12]

Cases in the Thomas Jefferson Health District increased slowly. The state health numbers are lagging behind reports from local districts [9] [13] Two are from Charlottesville and one is from Albemarle County [14]

The first fatality was reported on March 31, 2020. [6]

Local PPE

SupportCville has a held campaign to locate supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) for area doctor's offices and longterm care facilities.

The Hospice of the Piedmont issued a call for donations on March 25. [15]

Local government responses

Albemarle County and Charlottesville declared local emergencies on March 12, 2020 in order to help coordinate public safety efforts to contain the spread of the disease. This gives officials more flexibility to conduct business. It has resulted in the temporary halt of public meetings as well as the delay of the adoption of the FY21 budget in Albemarle County. [16] [17] On March 19, Charlottesville announced it would suspend collection of taxes for the time being.

Albemarle supervisors received a briefing at their meeting on March 17, 2020. [18]

The University of Virginia will remain closed all spring and will not hold Final Exercises (graduation) this year [19] [20]

  • Governor Ralph Northam urged Virginians on March 17 to restrict gatherings to ten people or less in order to halt community spread [21] Virginians over the age of 65 are urged to self-quarantine.
  • Virginia DMV offices were ordered closed by Governor Ralph Northam on March 17
  • the first is one known case of COVID-19 in Charlottesville as of March 16, 2020. The patient is a woman in her late 50's who is believed to have contracted the virus while traveling. Her test was processed by a commercial lab. She is an employee of the Women's Center at the University of Virginia and the facility is being sterilized.
  • Charlottesville has suspended tax collections for the time being [4]
  • Charlottesville Vice Mayor Sena Magill is in self-quarantine and is awaiting the results of a test [22]

Albemarle County

Albemarle County declared an emergency on March 12 and is implementing a multi-phased plan to respond to the incident. The Incident Management team is coordinating a response. [23] The Board of Superiors will delay the budget process until after the crisis is over. [24] Buildings are closed to the public. [25]

Public safety crews have altered operations on rescue missions. [26]

Supervisors adopted a draft continuity of governance ordinance on March 27. [27] At a briefing on March 18, Supervisors extended the date to adopt a final budget to May 14. [28] Supervisors will pioneer taking comment from the public remotely at their April 1, 2020 meeting. [29]

The Town of Scottsville is following Albemarle's plan. [30] They have declared their own local emergency.

[24] The Albemarle Board of Supervisors held a work session on March 17 and a regular meeting on March 18 but public attendance was restricted to watch from home [24]

Albemarle County is opening up parking lots for public wi-fi.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville has closed all indoor recreation facilities and park rentals, and has also canceled all public meetings until further notice except the March 16 City Council. The City Council meeting scheduled for March 16 will continue and the city will pilot a new way of allowing public input. [31] The city added further restrictions on March 16 and will only be open for essential personnel beginning on March 17.

The Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority has announced a moratorium on all evictions effective in [32]

The customer service window for the Charlottesville Police Department is closed until further notice. [33] The Police Department has also modified its responses to non-emergency calls. [34]

Charlottesville City Schools began distributing food to low-income students on March 17. [35] Weekday distribution of meals will take place between 10 am and noon at ten locations throughout the city. [36]

Surrounding counties

Schools impact

The announcement of the closure of schools on March 13 immediately prompted many to begin to think about what to do for children for whom school lunches may be the only regular mealtimes. That is potentially thousands of young people in Albemarle and Charlottesville. The city school system is planning on a meals program. The PB&J Fund sought volunteers and donations to distribute food on March 16. [37] [38]

Charlottesville City Schools are looking for volunteers to sign up to help distribute food beginning March 17. [39] Albemarle will offer the same service at several locations throughout the county beginning on March 17.

Virginia is seeking a federal waiver to cancel this years Standards of Learning tests. [40]

Albemarle expanded its meal distribution program on March 25. [41]

The federal Centers for Disease Control have a website on recommended school policies

Albemarle and Charlottesville have delivered nearly 8,000 meals between March 17 and March 24. [42]

Resources for parents

Albemarle County is seeking ways to move instruction online for the rest of the academic year. There will be no grades, however. [43]

Effects on local business

The City of Charlottesville's Economic Development Department have set up a resource page for affected businesses.

The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council published a list of financial resources on March 29, 2020

Authorities have called for social distancing which immediately began to have an effect on people moving around the community but also prompted a debate over whether enough people are heeding the call. That began to change on Sunday, March 15 as restaurants such as Rapture and Zocalo closed in advance of potential government-mandated shutdowns. [24] Others remain open for delivery.

  • Many businesses remained open on March 13 and March 14, but are encouraging customers to maintain a distance between themselves. While many office workers have been told to work from home, retail employees do not have that luxury. [45]
  • The cancellation of the Virginia Festival of the Book has had a ripple effect on businesses such as New Dominion Bookshop, which purchased additional stock for customers who will not be visiting Charlottesville this spring. [45]
  • State Farm is evaluating the possibility of its staffers working from home. CFA Institute is doing the same thing. WillowTree is among the companies that have told their employees to work from home.
  • Ragged Mountain Running Shop decided to close effective on March 13 but the owners said they would continue online sales and delivery [46]
  • Many retail stores on the Downtown Mall began posting signs on March 15 saying they would close until further notice. [47] These include Blue Whale Books, O'Suzannah, Rock Paper Scissors and J. Fenton TOO.
  • The Jefferson Madison Regional Library closed at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2020 for further notice and operated on a limited schedule on Sunday, March 15, 2020. [48] University of Virginia libraries were open until March 18 [49]

Restaurants

  • Charlottesville 29 urges people to order gift cards from restaurants to support them in the short-term [50]
  • A Go Fund Me account was launched to help local restaurant workers who will be affected by the shutdown of regular business [https://www.gofundme.com/f/charlottesville-restaurant-community/donate (Link to Go Fund Me Page) [51] This effort has also launched a Facebook page.
  • The owner of Rapture wrote in a Facebook post on the afternoon of March 15 that the restaurant would close indefinitely. "I am doing this because it is irresponsible to continue to offer a venue for people to interact socially and to therefore provide an environment for COVID-19 to spread. Its spread, the consequence for human life, and the economy, is inevitable. But each person needs to step up now, and begin to engage in the only behavior that will turn the tide on this: self-isolating."
  • Some restaurants remained open on March 16, but some began to close throughout the day. Blue Moon Diner opted to close that afternoon. [52]
  • Brazo's Tacos had gone to curbside service but made the decision on March 20 to close indefinitely [53] Blue Moon would open to curbside pick-up later in the month.

Churches

Many places of worship did not hold services on March 15 to help prevent the spread of the norel coronavirus. Those that meet in public schools already knew they could not hold services because of rules that prohibited meetings of up to 100 people. That included the Charlottesville Community Church. [54] Others such as First Presbyterian Church have suspended all activities through March 27. [55] Other institutions such as the Church of the Incarnation held services but with precautions.

State response

Testing

There have been questions about the ability of the state to test enough people. The official number is reported by the Virginia Department of Health each day at 9 a.m.

Additional testing capacity comes from private companies. Results have been taking long to get back.

The University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University have both developed tests. [56] [57]

In the last week of March, Virginia lagged behind many other nearby the states in the number of residents who had been tested. [58]

PPE

Medical capacity

There are concerns that Virginia does not have enough medical beds. [59]

The Army Corps of Engineers is investigating sites for potential military hospitals. [60]

In late March, a dormitory at Virginia Commonwealth University was converted to a temporary hospital, with student belongings transferred to storage. [61]

Unemployment

46,885 Virginians filed unemployment claims for the week ending March 21. [62]

Relief for Virginians

Attorney General Mark Herring asked the State Corporation Commission in an emergency petition to require utility companies to halt disconnects for non-payment. [63] Dominion announced the same day they would suspend disconnections. [64]

The Virginia Employment Commission has prepared information for people who have been laid off or will be laid off in the coming weeks. A person has to actually be laid off or had hours reduced before they are eligible to apply for benefits. The maximum weekly benefit amount in Virginia is $378. [65]

  • The State Corporation Commission has "directed regulated electric, natural gas and water companies in Virginia to suspend service disconnections until the coronavirus outbreak subsides." [66]
  • Virginia's public safety agencies announce a suspension of all visitation in state jails, cessation of prisoner transfers [67]

Price gouging

The Attorney's General Office is seeking information on anyone taking advantage of the crisis to raise prices. The declaration of a state emergency triggered provisions "designed to protect consumers from paying exorbitant prices for necessary goods and services during an emergency." A hotline has been set up at 800-552-9963 or information can be submitted via online form. [68]

Timeline

Cancellations

Media Resources


Medical capacity

One of the reasons why the social distancing protocol has been put into place is to limit the impact on the medical system which could be overwhelmed if hospitalizations are required.

The University of Virginia Health System has 612 beds. [92]

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital has 176 beds. [93]

One local ER nurse questioned in whether the hospital network is ready. [94]

Global resources

References

  1. Web. [https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-55-Temporary-Stay-at-Home-Order-Due-to-Novel-Coronavirus-(COVID-19).pdf NUMBER FIFTY-FIVE (2020) TEMPORARY STAY AT HOME ORDER DUE TO NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)], Governor Ralph Northam, Executive Order, March 30, 2020, retrieved March 31, 2020.
  2. Web. Episode 13 - Stay Home. That’s an Order!, Sean Tubbs, Podcast, Sean Tubbs, March 31, 2020, retrieved March 31, 2020.
  3. Web. Northam orders all Virginia public schools closed for minimum of two weeks, News and Advance Reports, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 13, 2020, retrieved March 13, 2020.
  4. 4.0 4.1 Web. Live local updates: Charlottesville suspends past-due tax collections; more local cases confirmed, Staff reports, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 19, 2020, retrieved March 19, 2020.
  5. Web. Tweet, Thomas Jefferson Health District, Tweet, Thomas Jefferson Health District, March 30, 2020, retrieved March 31, 2020.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 Web. Tweet, Thomas Jefferson Health District, Tweet, Thomas Jefferson Health District, March 31, 2020, retrieved March 31, 2020.
  7. 7.0 7.1 Web. Charlottesville area sees first death from COVID-19, Staff Reports, News Article, Daily Progress, March 31, 2020, retrieved March 31, 2020.
  8. Web. UPDATES: Va. officials confirm 77 cases of coronavirus, Sentara to suspend drive through tests, Times-Dispatch Staff Reports, Daily Progress, Lee Enterprises, March 18, 2020, retrieved March 18, 2020.
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