coronavirus

Coronavirus in DC, Maryland, Virginia: What to Know on Jan. 23

Here's what to know about the coronavirus data, resources and reopenings across the D.C. area

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Coronavirus cases in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, are continuing a steady decline after an upward surge that persisted for more than two months.

A year into the fight against the coronavirus, the nation is counting on vaccines to turn the tide.

But demand is outweighing supply and states are scrambling to adjust distribution plans.

On Friday, the Virginia Health Department said it is changing how it doles out vaccines.

Instead of sending vials directly to hospitals or medical offices, vaccines will now be given out to health departments based on the number of people living in each of area.

The change is leaving some people in limbo, including patients at Virginia Hospital Center's Walter Reed Community Center clinic, which has been one of the main vaccine providers in Arlington.

But under the change, the hospital doesn't know how many doses it will receive going forward. The hospital has canceled 10,000 first dose appointments.

Virginia Hospital Center is only canceling appointments for first-time vaccines.

If you've received the first dose already, your appointment for your second dose still stands.

Those who receive a cancellation notice from VHC will be rescheduled by Arlington County.


What the Data Shows

Seven-day averages of new coronavirus cases have fallen for D.C., Maryland and Virginia for several days in a row, a sign that surges seen around the holidays are abating.

Virginia reported a high number of cases on Saturday, 3,781. However, the weekly average of new cases continued to fall, for the fifth day in a row. Sixty-five Virginians died of the virus.

Maryland counted 2,392 new coronavirus cases and 45 deaths Saturday. The seven-day rolling average of new cases fallen consistently since Jan. 12.

D.C.’s case average is also declining and on Saturday hit a three-week low. Another 220 cases and three more deaths were reported.


Vaccination Portals by County

As vaccinations in our region ramp up, here's a look at local portals residents can use to sign up for vaccination appointments or sign up to receive alerts.

To get a better idea of when you'll be eligible to receive a vaccine, use our tool below.

A study has found that as COVID-19 vaccines roll out, they are disproportionately reaching white populations before Black and other minority communities.


Local Coronavirus Headlines


Reopening Tracker

Although COVID-19 treatments have improved and a vaccine is on the way, even a mild case of the virus can cause long-term complications — including the possibility of erectile dysfunction. Infectious disease expert Dr. Dena Grayson joined LX News with a warning not to let our guards down as we wait for a vaccine.

How to Stay Safe

Anyone can get COVID-19. Here are three simple ways the CDC says you can lower your risk: 

  • 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.
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