Community Chat

[Mindy D]

A priest in Georgetown has tested positive for COVID-19. He shook hands with over 500 people. Rev. Timothy Cole. 

Mayor Muriel Bowser:

"Visitors to Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal on Feb 24th, and between Feb 28th and Mar 3rd could've been exposed to COVID-19, and DC Health recommends that anyone who visited on those dates isolate themselves at home for 14 days from the last time they visited the church."

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&ved=2ahUKEwj_ovrgl47oAhVRUt8KHdYWDPw...

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=5&ved=2ahUKEwjvv5j4lo7oAhWnZd8KHYZHBO4...

From the health department

DC Health Statement Regarding Christ Church

Monday, March 9, 2020

On March 7, 2020, DC Health was notified of a confirmed case of COVID-19 at Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal. Through DC Health’s investigation, in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all visitors to Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal on February 24th, and between February 28th and March 3rd could have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19, and DC Health is recommending that anyone who visited Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal on those dates isolate themselves at home for 14 days from the last time they visited the church. Isolating at home includes not going to work or school, and not attending any large or public gatherings, or using public transportation or ride-sharing. DC Health may also be reaching out to certain individuals who are more likely to have been exposed with further guidance.

Additionally, any person who has visited Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal on the dates mentioned above, should call DC Health if they develop symptoms, or if they have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 in the 14 days since they visited the church at (202) 576-1117 or call their healthcare providers. Symptoms of COVID-19 may include fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath. If you have any questions and are not symptomatic, you can also email DC Health are coronavirus@dc.gov.

We are currently still conducting our investigation, and DC Health will reach out to potentially impacted congregants and visitors as we continue to gather more information, to ensure the safety of public is protected. You can find more information about COVID-19, including guidance on symptoms and precautions, on the DC Health (https://coronavirus.dc.gov/) or CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html) websites.

For more information on the District Government’s preparations for potential impacts of COVID-19 Coronavirus, please visit coronavirus.dc.gov.

[lilypadfrog]

I fear this may be one of the first of many such notices given out.  I hope those involved are well soon.  And, I would wonder how working people, living from paycheck to paycheck,  will be able to take this time at home....especially since it may be several more times of exposure this year.  Both employees and employers are going to suffer in trying to keep this contained.  Being retired, I can stay home without worrying about paying the bills or getting exposed.  There are still so many unknowns so I do worry about others.

[Mindy D]

Shaking hands is not a good practice right now. Smile and greet others with a big "Hello." 

[Oznell]

That's what I've started doing at church, @Mindy D -- it's a good idea, and everyone understands.  Those sorts of precautions were recommended for the "meet and greet" part of the service, and I think that's prudent.

[mamaslittlepotato]

He should never be shaking hands, especially now. Such a shame. I hope he and anyone else infected will be okay.....Our church is having someone hold the door open to let people in and out, and we are doing air hi fives instead of shaking hands during the greeting. Also have cleaning crews cleaning constantly and volunteers, pastors, etc. are constantly washing their hands and using sanitizer. We’re keeping on top of the little children washing their hands during their classes too.

If EVERYONE just does their best, I believe this virus will die down a good amount by the time medicine and a vaccine is available.

[AngelPuppy1]

This is crazy right now considering what is going on!  People need to use more common sense.  

[BrandiDavis]

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@lilypadfrog wrote:

 Being retired, I can stay home without worrying about paying the bills or getting exposed.  

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What I would give to be able to say that!!! That would relieve SO much stress/anxiety that I'm feeling right now. I'm very glad that you are in a position to be able to do that though. That is wonderful. Now, myself...I am SO scared of a mandatory quarantine or heck even if it's not mandatory, there is simply NO way I'd be able to do it. No savings, No sick time, No insurance, the list goes on. I provide for myself, my 17 yr old daughter, and my 64 yr old dad. To say I'm worried is the biggest understatement I've ever made I think. I know there are MANY, MANY, MANY others in the same boat as myself and my heart goes out to them too. I just keep telling myself, this too shall pass and until then we will have to do what we have to do. No other options really. Hugs to all that are worried right now. You're not alone. Stay safe!!!

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[CalminHeart]

Priests shake hands all the time but have to change, at least for now.  They wouldn't intentionally spread any illness.

I noticed Stephen Colbert didn't do his usual hand clapping run through the audience last night.  Smart move.

[Deree]

People!  The days of shaking hands, hugging and kissing each other in greeting are OVER.  Don't be stupid. Just stop it.