Alexandria sees cases rise in August and warns of COVID-19 in schools

With COVID-19 numbers sharply rising in Alexandria, the city is advising parents to expect cases at schools and daycares.

So far this month, 14 cases have been reported in Alexandria City Public Schools.

In the event of an outbreak, the Alexandria Health Department will call or email family members of close contacts to see whether children are having any COVID-19 symptoms, how to quarantine and other next steps.

“Prepare in advance by learning what to expect,” the city said in a release. “Your child’s school or daycare should send a general notification letter indicating that there was an exposure and they will work with the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) to identify close contacts.”

Alexandria saw a 235% increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in August over July, according to the Virginia Department of Health. The city entered into a “high” level of transmission on August 15, up from “substantial” in July and “moderate” and “low” transmission levels in June and May. Unvaccinated residents account for the jump in the numbers, according to VDH.

There has been a recent dip in the average of new cases, as much higher case counts were reported last week.

As of August 31, there have been 12,817 reported cases of COVID-19 in the city, an increase of 163 cases since this time last week. The death toll from the virus stands at 142.

Alexandria has a goal of fully vaccinating 110,000 residents — 80% of the population — a goal that the city says it has already reached.

So far, 86,154 residents have been fully vaccinated, and 99,605 residents have been partially vaccinated. Just over 63% of residents over the age of 18 have been vaccinated, and so have 78% of seniors.

Find vaccine providers in Alexandria here. If you feel sick, get tested.