Fredericksburg reports first case of coronavirus

Fredericksburg has reported its first confirmed case of coronavirus.

It brings the total number of cases in the Rappahannock Area Health District to 13. There are nine cases reported on Stafford County and three in Spotsylvania County.

“Expect that number to increase as more testing is done. These numbers are increasing each and every day and probably will for the foreseeable future,” said Fredericksburg City Manager Tim Baroody.

In the meantime, Baroody says the employees of his city will continue to serve the public to the best of their ability, for as long as they can. All of the city’s facilities have been closed to the public.

“For most of us, our way of life has changed dramatically in the last week and it appears that will remain the case for weeks if not months to come. Many are anxious, nervous and very concerned about the uncertainty with their health, health of their family, income and everyday things we use to take for granted,” said Baroody.

For those who are stressed about the coronavirus situation, Baroody urged residents to seek help through their employer’s assistance program, if one is provided, or by calling the Rappahannock Community Services Board. The RCSB maintains emergency therapists available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year for Fredericksburg residents at 540-373-6876.

As of 3:50 p.m today, a total of nine people in Virginia have died from the coronavirus disease, 59 people have been hospitalized, with 391 confirmed cases in the state.