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Tradition-bound Washington adjusts to life in a pandemic

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WASHINGTON -- The nation's capital, like most of the nation itself, is largely shuttered.

Everything from the annual White House Easter Egg Roll to a lavish state dinner for the Spanish royals has been scrapped.

The few congressional lawmakers still required to show up to Capitol Hill during the spring recess are scouring the internet or turning to family members for help sewing homemade masks.

Wealthy political donors are still raising money for politicians, but in exchange for a spot in a Zoom meeting instead of the opportunity to mingle over wine and passed hors d’oeuvres in hotel ballrooms.

Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for the most complete coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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.