The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and DC Health continue to recommend the measures to prevent the spread of germs and avoid illness, such as:
• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when feeling sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze in the crook of your arm or with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Additionally, District is sharing public messaging to stop stigma associated with coronavirus:
• Coronavirus doesn’t recognize race, nationality, or ethnicity. Coronavirus (COVID-19) started in Wuhan, China. Having Chinese ancestry –– or any other ancestry –– does not make a person more vulnerable to this illness.
• Wearing a mask does not mean a person is ill. People wear masks for a variety of reasons, including to avoid pollen and air pollution and for cultural and social reasons. We should not judge someone for wearing a mask or assume they are sick.
• Speak up if you hear, see, or read discriminatory comments. Correct false information and remind the person that prejudiced language and actions make us all less safe. If discrimination occurs, report it to DC’s Office of Human Rights at 202-727-4559.
• Show compassion and support for those most closely impacted. Listen to, acknowledge and, with permission, share the stories of people experiencing stigma, along with a message that bigotry is not acceptable in our community.
For additional information, please visit coronavirus.dc.gov or dchealth.dc.gov/coronavirus.
Best,
Rev. Thomas Bowen
Director
Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser
Mayor’s Office of Religious Affairs
Office Hours & Location
Monday – Friday
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 332
Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-442-8150
Email: religious.affairs@dc.gov