WASHINGTON -- The nation's capital is starting to reopen.
Starting Friday, a tiny slice of pre-pandemic normality starts returning to Washington, D.C., as the three-month old coronavirus stay-home order is replaced by the first phase of a reopening plan.
It’s a major turning point in the District of Columbia’s road to recovery after three solid months of economic and social lock-down.
But not everyone is in a hurry to return.
All across the capital — and the four neighboring Virginia counties that are reopening on the same schedule — business owners are deciding whether they’re really ready to return.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- 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.