Governor Ralph Northam ordered all Virginians to stay at home as COVID-19 cases passed the 1,000 mark Monday.
Northam's executive ordermakes allowances for obtaining food, health care, supplies, work and fresh air/exercise. Northam said while many people have heeded the guidelines to avoid uneccessary travel and gatherings of more than 10 people, "it is clear more people need to hear this message." The order is in effect until June 10th, unless rescinded by the governor.
The order also forces all colleges and universities to cease in-person instruction and any gatherings of more than ten people.
Northam said Monday that the infection statistics Virginia is experiencing now are the results of people's actions a week or two ago. Modeling by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other agencies show a surge in demand for hospital care. Northam said state officials were still working to understand the exact predictions about outcomes and timing.
Northam said Virginia food banks have experienced a 20% to 50% increase in demand. Virginians who need help getting food or social services should call 211.
Virginia has now reported more than a thousand positive COVID-19 cases. The Virginia Department of Health's update Monday morning also indicates the first cases in Roanoke City.
The updated statistics show 1,020 cases statewide. 25 people have died from the illness and 136 are hospitalized. More than 12,000 tests have been conducted.
Mapping from the Department of Health now indicates six positive cases in Roanoke City, the first there. Last week, incorrectly entered data logged a Roanoke County case in the city, according to local health officials.
Fairfax County has the most positive cases with 224. But all areas of Virginia are now seeing cases of COVID-19.
The U.S. Department of Education has approved Virginia’s request for a standardized testing waiver in response to the novel coronavirus. That means federally-mandated Standards of Learning tests in reading, math and science have been cancelled for the 2019 – 2020 school year.
The Virginia Department of Education is currently weighing what to do with writing, social studies and history tests not required by the federal government. That’s an issue that will be taken up when the General Assembly meets again in April.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
