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Mar 21

Loudoun County Urges Community to Practice Social Distancing

Posted on March 21, 2020 at 6:33 PM by Glen Barbour

On Saturday, March 21, 2020, Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) informed the school community (PDF) that two additional LCPS staff members have tested positive for COVID-19. As of today, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) reports 14 cases of COVID-19 in in Loudoun County based on test results received to-date. The health department’s investigation into the new cases is ongoing, which includes identifying any individuals who may have had contact with the known cases.

“We should anticipate that we will continue to see new cases of COVID-19 in our community as testing increases,” said Loudoun County Health Director Dr. David Goodfriend. “I encourage everyone to remain vigilant in taking the appropriate steps to limit the spread of the virus, particularly taking seriously the recommendations for practicing social distancing until further notice.”

Last week, public health officials in Northern Virginia noted evidence of community transmission of COVID-19 in parts of our region. This means that for some individuals who tested positive for COVID-19, the source of infection could not be identified. Because infectious diseases do not respect boundaries, health officials urge everyone to remain vigilant to help slow further spread of the virus.

In addition, with the relatively warm weather, children out of school, and many of us at home, it is tempting to want to spend time outside and gather outdoors in open spaces, such as playgrounds. Loudoun County encourages everyone in the community to refrain from gathering in groups and encourages everyone to practice social distancing, which generally means maintaining 6 feet between you and others at all times. Except when absolutely necessary, VDH recommends remaining out of:

  • Public places where close contact with others may occur (such as shopping centers, movie theaters, stadiums, parks, playgrounds)
  • Workplaces (unless office space allows distancing from others)
  • Schools and other classroom settings.
  • Local public transportation (such as on a bus, subway, taxi, ride share, plane, ship) 

“We are all in this together, which means each one of us must do our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” said County Administrator Tim Hemstreet. “For the health of our community, I ask that Loudoun residents follow the directions to help mitigate the impact of the disease in the county and to help protect the most vulnerable members of our community.” 

Vulnerable populations include adults over the age of 65 and people with chronic medical conditions that make them at high risk for complications from coronavirus. In addition to practicing social distancing, everyone is encouraged also to continue taking steps to limit the spread of germs, including those that cause COVID-19, which include:

  • 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.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid contact with sick people.
  • Avoid non-essential travel.


Loudoun County encourages residents to stay informed about COVID-19. The county’s website can be translated into more than 80 languages. 

  • Visit loudoun.gov/coronavirus for information about the COVID-19 and to sign up for email and text updates. 
  • Text LCCOVID19 to 888777 to receive text alerts from Loudoun County about COVID-19. 


Residents with questions about COVID-19 may call the Loudoun County Health Department’s information line, 703-737-8300, or email health@loudoun.gov

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