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Here's what guidelines to follow if you test positive.
WASHINGTON — D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Thursday that she has tested positive for COVID-19, prompting her to cancel her plans to participate in the first day of Pre-K celebrations. The mayor was scheduled to visit Garfield Elementary School to welcome students on their first day.
In a statement released on X, Mayor Bowser shared that she is sad to have to cancel and is following public health guidelines by isolating at home. “I am disappointed to not be able to celebrate the first day of Pre-K with our littlest learners. I will continue to follow public health guidelines,” Bowser said.
Public Health Guidelines and What to Do if You Test Positive
With COVID-19 still circulating, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises several steps for individuals who test positive:
Isolation: If you test positive for COVID-19, you should isolate for at least 5 days, regardless of your vaccination status. Stay in a separate room from others, if possible, and use a separate bathroom. Avoid contact with other members of the household and pets.
Notify Close Contacts: Inform those you have been in close contact with recently, so they can take necessary precautions, such as testing and monitoring for symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you develop severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately.
Wear a Mask: If you must be around others, wear a high-quality mask to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
End of Isolation: After 5 days, if you have been fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications and your symptoms are improving, you can end isolation. However, continue wearing a mask around others for 5 additional days.
A Reminder of COVID-19’s Ongoing Impact
Mayor Bowser’s positive test is a stark reminder that COVID-19 continues to be a public health concern, even as the world moves toward a new normal. The District’s health department continues to urge residents to stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations and to follow public health guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus.
Yesterday, I tested positive for COVID-19.
I'm disappointed to not be able to celebrate the first day of Pre-K with our littlest learners. I will continue to follow public health guidelines.
As Mayor Bowser recovers, she encourages all Washingtonians to take precautions to protect themselves and others, especially as the school year begins and children gather in classrooms.
For more information on COVID-19 guidelines, testing, and vaccinations, residents can visit the D.C. Department of Health’s website or contact their healthcare provider.
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