More people diagnosed with COVID-19 are being cared for in hospitals, intensifying concerns about the pandemic.
White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx urged Virginia and other states to impose greater restrictions on bar areas and to further limit social gathering size, a push for more strategies that will lower virus spread.
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam gave an update on Tuesday on where the state stands in its fight against coronavirus.
Leaders in D.C., Maryland and Virginia are reminding residents to wear masks and social distance, but the message isn't always getting through.
Over the weekend, a large crowd gathered for a concert at Oxon Run Park in Southeast D.C. Hardly any masks were seen. D.C. Police were seen flashing their lights, but not seen enforcing mask rules.
D.C. police said in a statement Tuesday that they did not arrest anyone in the park. Officers are encouraging members of the public to wear face masks and working with partners including the parks department to monitor gatherings.
“Voluntary compliance is our desired goal,” police said.
Robbie Woodland, an 8C ANC Commissioner, says she was upset after D.C. police said they were not empowered to enforce laws including the mask mandate.
Northam on Monday unveiled a $70 million grant fund to help small businesses and nonprofits recover from the economic fallout of the pandemic-related shutdowns. Up to 7,000 applicants are expected to get awards.
FAQ: What to Know About DC's Order to Self-Quarantine After Travel to Virus Hot Spots
What the Data Shows
Case numbers didn't top any recent records on Tuesday, with D.C. adding 87 new cases; Maryland adding 648 and Virginia adding 861.
Hospitalizations are up across the board, a concerning sign. Hospitals are treating 858 coronavirus patients in Virginia, 544 in Maryland and 106 in D.C.
In Virginia, Tuesday's hospitalization count is higher than it's been since June 3.
The map below shows the number of coronavirus cases diagnosed per 1,000 residents.
Coronavirus Cases in DC, Maryland and Virginia
COVID-19 cases by population in D.C. and by county in Maryland and Virginia
Source: DC, MD and VA Health Departments
Credit: Anisa Holmes / NBC Washington
Local Coronavirus Headlines
- There is a push for Fauquier County schools to nix the district's plan to offer some in-person classes. Read more.
- Washington, D.C., will require certain residents and visitors entering the city from 27 states to self-quarantine for two weeks. Read more.
- The Smithsonian's National Zoo reopened Friday, allowing a limited number of daily visitors while implementing new safety measures like mandatory face masks. Watch the report.
- Amid growing concerns about a surge in coronavirus cases this month, a group of nurses gathered outside of Washington MedStar Hospital to voice concerns about their safety on the job. Watch the report.
- The District implemented strict new mask guidelines, saying face coverings must be worn whenever you leave home, with few exceptions. Read more.
- D.C. will empower inspectors to issue on-the-spot citations to businesses that violate social distancing rules.
- Fairfax County Public Schools has shifted to a 100%-online start to the school year, citing health data. Read more.
Reopening Tracker
- Virginia entered phase three reopening on July 1, loosening restrictions on restaurants, stores, gyms and pools. But Gov. Northam said more restrictions could be implemented if cases continue to grow.
- Prince George's County entered full phase two on June 23, allowing the MGM Casino and gyms to reopen.
- Washington, D.C., entered phase two on June 22, allowing indoor dining, gyms, libraries and houses of worship to reopen with restrictions.
- Montgomery County entered phase two on June 19, reopening with restrictions gyms, houses of worship, indoor dining and retail.
- Maryland entered phase two of reopening on June 10, permitting indoor dining, outdoor pools and outside amusements to reopen.
How to Stay Safe
There are ways to lower your risk of catching coronavirus. Here are the CDC guidelines.
- Wear a snug-fitting mask that covers your nose and mouth.
- Avoid being indoors with people who are not members of your household. The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed to COVID-19. If you are indoors with people you don’t live with, stay at least six feet apart and keep your mask on.
- Wash your hands often, especially after you have been in a public place.
Sophia Barnes, Andrea Swalec and Anisa Holmes contributed to this report
