D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Friday that she has extended the period of the city’s ongoing measures against the COVID-19 pandemic until April 27, shortly after declaring the first coronavirus-related death.
The patient was a 59-year-old male and was admitted to a local hospital last week as he was suffering from fever and cough. He also had other underlying health issues.
“It is with great sadness that we announce a tragic death and, on behalf of our residents, I share our love and condolences with the patient’s family and friends,” Bowser wrote in a tweet.
“As a community, we must continue to support one another during these uncertain times. Everyone must do their part so that we can blunt the spread and protect our families, friends, and neighbors,” she continued.
At a press conference live-streamed on Twitter and Facebook at 3:00 p.m., the mayor stated that the District of Columbia Government’s modified operating status would continue until April 27.
The D.C. government will be performing some of its operations fully remotely, while other services will continue at public buildings under modified operations.
The extension includes distance learning at public schools. DCPS facilities will remain closed through Friday, April 24 and classes are scheduled to resume on Monday, April 27. Charter school operators will follow DCPS’ operating status.
(1/3) It is with great sadness that we announce a tragic death and, on behalf of our residents, I share our love and condolences with the patient’s family and friends. pic.twitter.com/fT1aNBP5zt
— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) March 20, 2020
“Schools will continue to implement consistent methods to deliver instruction remotely to students in ELA and Math. District Government will work with schools to address challenges where they exist and develop engagement and submission mechanisms to increase the demands of online learning,” according to Bowser’s statement.
There will be 10 more meal sites for all students, bringing the total meal sites at DCPS buildings to 29 around the city, starting from April 1. All residents younger than 18 can go to these addresses for lunch and a shelf-stable breakfast on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
The ban on mass gatherings will also remain in place until April 25, 2020.
Playgrounds, parks, athletic fields and other facilities of the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will be closed to the public.
You can check out the list of meal sites on coronavirus.dc.gov/mealsites.