Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
Over the coming weeks, residents of Alexandria will gather for winter activities with neighbors, friends, and family. While these moments are cherished for their seasonal joy, they also present opportunities for germs to spread. The Alexandria Health Department is advising the community to maintain healthy habits to prevent illness.
One key recommendation is proper hand hygiene. "Wash hands often with warm, soapy water," the department advises, emphasizing a duration of at least 20 seconds. They recommend cleaning palms, backs of hands, under nails, and between fingers regularly.
For households where someone is ill, thorough cleaning can help eliminate germs. The department suggests following cleaning supply label instructions and increasing cleaning frequency during winter months. In cases of stomach illness involving diarrhea or vomiting, using bleach-based sprays or wipes is recommended to effectively kill germs.
Food safety practices are also highlighted as crucial during this season. Residents are advised to wash hands and produce but not raw meat to avoid spreading bacteria around the kitchen. Other recommendations include separating raw from cooked foods and ensuring meats reach safe internal temperatures.
The health department notes that fall and winter facilitate easier germ transmission due to more indoor time and close contact among people. Viruses such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV are prevalent during this time and cause respiratory symptoms like coughing and fever. Information on prevention and vaccines can be found on their Flu Season website.
Additionally, Virginia is experiencing an increase in gastrointestinal illnesses causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Severe cases should seek medical attention according to provider advice.
For further details or inquiries related to media communications only, Eve Elliott serves as the point of contact at eve.elliott@vdh.virginia.gov or by phone at 804-467-5160.
Language assistance services are available through email at LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or by calling 703-746-3960.