The D.C. Health Department recommends that some churchgoers self-quarantine if they recently visited Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal.
Reverend Tim Cole, a D.C. rector, has tested positive for COVID-19 (coronavirus) and is currently under observation in a local hospital. Out of an abundance of caution, the D.C. Health Department has urged visitors to Christ Church, Georgetown Episcopal on February 24 and between February 28 and March 3 to self-quarantine for a period of 14 days from their last visit to the church.
This public self-quarantine order was issued by the mayor's office at a press conference with the D.C. Health Department. The news came out on March 9, and it is estimated that hundreds of congregants may be affected.
"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."
— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) March 9, 2020
If you are one of the affected Christ Church Georgetown visitors, you should plan on staying home for the duration of your self-quarantine and avoid contact with the public. Watch for the general symptoms of COVID-19: fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath.
Health officials are reaching out to the congregation, and the church has canceled all activities, including services, for the forseeable future. If you develop symptoms during your quarantine period, call the D.C. Health Department at (202) 576-1117. You can also seek the medical advice of your healthcare provider. If you are not showing any symptoms of the virus but still have questions, send an email to [email protected].
*The photos in this article are courtesy of Christ Church Georgetown.
For more information about the Christ Church Georgetown situation, view the official statement from the D.C. Health Department.
What are your thoughts on this recommended self-quarantine? Sound off in the comments!