VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- A plan by Virginia state government to offer money to localities to provide shelter to homeless people as a way to blunt the spread of coronavirus is an idea that's already taken off in Virginia Beach.
The city already has been offering more than 45 hotel rooms to homeless individuals for the last two weeks.
Gov. Ralph Northam announced that $2.5 million is now available statewide for hotel vouchers, food, cleaning supplies and other items to people lacking housing.
Virginia’s health department said on Saturday the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state now exceed 2,400, with 52 confirmed deaths.
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COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.