The Omicron variant has led to more public health measures being reinstated on the Route 1 corridor already.
Prince George’s County officials have already extended a mask mandate for residents over the age of 2 in indoor public spaces, which is now set to expire on Jan. 23, 2022. Meanwhile, D.C. has also reinstated its indoor mask mandate through Jan. 31, 2022 with Mayor Muriel Bowser declaring a state of emergency.
D.C. is also providing residents with free at-home rapid antigen Covid-19 tests, beginning Dec. 22, (proof of residency required) which can be picked up at several libraries around the city including the Woodridge Library on Rhode Island Ave.
After an uptick in Covid cases, Prince George’s County Schools switched to remote learning on Monday through at least Jan. 14, a decision that was sharply criticized by Governor Larry Hogan in an appearance on national TV.
Public schools in D.C. have delayed opening after winter break until January 5 to give families two additional days to do rapid antigen testing after returning from holiday travels, though several schools have already moved to virtual through mid-January.
The University of Maryland canceled winter graduation ceremonies and all indoor social gathering, moved dining halls to grab-and-go and required students go home for winter break as soon as possible.
There’s also a higher demand for people who want to get tested before seeing family over the holidays. At the Express Healthcare in College Park, some people waited more than two hours over the weekend to get a Covid-19 test, and cars now line up around the block.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90 percent of Prince George’s County residents over the age of 12 have had at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, and more than 78 percent have had at least two doses.
The rate of new admissions to the hospital per capita in Prince George’s County is up 27 percent over the last seven days, according to CDC data.
Meanwhile, due to the surge in positive cases, Zeke’s Coffee at 2300 Rhode Island Ave., is open for takeout and outdoor seating only through January 2.
To locate a vaccine clinic for five years of age and older and to find out more on Covid-19 testing in Prince George’s County, click here, and for D.C., click here.
Support the Wire and Community Journalism
Make a one-time donation or become a regular supporter here.
