coronavirus

Coronavirus in DC, Maryland, Virginia: What to Know on July 27

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

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Go here for the latest updates on July 28, 2020.

Washington, D.C., has put into place the region's first travel restrictions that target specific coronavirus "hot spot" states as the capital region saw the largest single-day increase of new cases since the end of May.

Twenty-seven states, largely in the southern half of the country, are considered high-risk. Residents or visitors coming into D.C. following nonessential trips must quarantine for two weeks.

While the restrictions were announced last week, the list was announced Monday. The inclusion of Delaware, a popular weekend getaway destination just a few hours from D.C., surprised many.

Although Virginia and Maryland are both trying to fight against a sharp increase in the number of new coronavirus diagnoses, they will be exempt from D.C.'s order.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam on Friday urged residents to be cautious over the weekend so the state doesn't have to move back in its reopening.

"If the numbers don't come down, we may have to take additional steps to blunt the spread of this virus," he said on Twitter.

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan will discuss the state's coronavirus response with News4 Prince George's Bureau Chief Tracee Wilkins. Tune in to NBC4 at 4, 5 and 6 p.m.


What the Data Shows

The coronavirus crisis is escalating in the D.C. area, with more people becoming infected and more being admitted to hospitals.

On Monday, D.C., Maryland and Virginia reported 2,684 new coronavirus cases, the largest one-day increase since May 19.

Virginia added its highest number of cases since May 26, with 1,478 diagnoses.

Maryland is also seeing levels of new infection previously not seen since May. On Saturday, the state added 1,288 cases, the most since May 19.

These are not just one-day spikes, but indicative of a trend: More people are catching coronavirus in recent weeks.

The seven-day average of new cases has grown over the past week, from 755 to 884 in Maryland and from 974 to 1,065 in Virginia.

Northern Virginia added a total of 511 cases on Monday, higher than the average of 261 over the past week.

The rest of Virginia saw those regions' biggest increase since the pandemic began, 1,061 new cases. Northam has said non-compliance with social distancing measures is driving the crisis in the Hampton Roads area.

D.C.'s average has stabilized back into the mid-70s, but health officials are concerned about a trend of increased spread through the community.

Hospitalizations are high in Virginia (821 hospitalized), rising in Maryland (536 hospitalized) and jumped in D.C. (from 80s and 90s in recent weeks to 102 hospitalized).

The map below shows the number of coronavirus cases diagnosed per 1,000 residents.

Coronavirus Cases in DC, Maryland and Virginia

COVID-19 cases by population in D.C. and by county in Maryland and Virginia

Source: DC, MD and VA Health Departments
Credit: Anisa Holmes / NBC Washington


Local Coronavirus Headlines

  • There is a push for Fauquier County schools to nix the district's plan to offer some in-person classes. Read more.
  • Washington, D.C., will require certain residents and visitors entering the city from 27 states to self-quarantine for two weeks. Read more.
  • The Smithsonian's National Zoo reopened Friday, allowing a limited number of daily visitors while implementing new safety measures like mandatory face masks. Watch the report.
  • Amid growing concerns about a surge in coronavirus cases this month, a group of nurses gathered outside of Washington MedStar Hospital to voice concerns about their safety on the job. Watch the report.
  • The District implemented strict new mask guidelines, saying face coverings must be worn whenever you leave home, with few exceptions. Read more.
  • D.C. will empower inspectors to issue on-the-spot citations to businesses that violate social distancing rules.
  • Fairfax County Public Schools has shifted to a 100%-online start to the school year, citing health data. Read more.

Reopening Tracker


How to Stay Safe

There are ways to lower your risk of catching coronavirus. Here are the CDC guidelines.

  • 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.

Sophia Barnes, Andrea Swalec and Anisa Holmes contributed to this report

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