WASHINGTON — With a rising number of reported cases of COVID-19 in the DMV, questions surrounding the virus have been pouring in. WUSA9 is committed to responding to your comments and questions through our social media platforms to keep you up to date on developments with the coronavirus.
We are closely monitoring our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds as well as providing updates via text message. Viewers can text the word 'virus' to 202-895-5700 to receive instant updates on their phones about coronavirus. You can text any questions you have to that number, too, and we'll do our best to get you an answer.
We'll be updating this space as frequently as possible with your questions that we've answered on air, or through social media.
What are the guidelines for going to the laundromat?
Dr. Linda Nabha, an infectious disease expert in Washington, D.C., said while washing clothes is important to overall good hygiene, one has to consider the risks. Nabha recommends going to the laundry mat during off hours, going at times when it's not busy, and maintaining at least a six-foot distance from other people.
Where can people get tested?
Dr. Linda Nabha said that's not an easy question. She said there are sites that will eventually be setup in the area. She recommends visiting your local and state website for information on testing. Right now, there are limited outpatient sites that are doing testing. Many medical offices simply don't have the necessary, protective medical equipment to test.
If a person tests positive for coronavirus, should their pets be quarantined as well?
--Tangee Dingle from Woodbridge, Virginia
Medical experts with the World Health Organization for Animal Health say there is no evidence pets are a source of infection and they cannot get sick themselves.
How long can the coronavirus live on a piece of paper?
--Laura Mitchell
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Dr. Linda Nabha, an infectious disease expert in Washington, D.C., said that a couple of studies have been conducted to determine how long the virus can live outside a host (a person). One study showed the virus survived three days, while another study showed the virus survived nine days.
Are DC libraries closing?
D.C.'s public libraries will be closed from March 16-April 1. Howard County libraries are closed from March 16-27 and Anne Arundel libraries and Carroll County libraries will both be closed from March 13-29.
Does a Walgreens employee in Fauquier County have coronavirus, and did it close the store?
This was proven false by a local media outlet in Fauquier County.
We will update this story every day with new answers to your questions.