Dogwood Daily: Sentara Offers Drive-Thru Testing for Virginia Residents

Welcome to today’s edition of the Dogwood Daily. We’ve got a round-up of all of today’s Virginia news coming right up.

But first…

Amid the concern about the coronavirus pandemic, a Virginia man wants to spread holiday cheer by decorating his home in Christmas lights. “I was thinking about a time back in the 80s when everything was closed…and we were still happy,” said Michael Harliss, the man behind the decorations, “If I could see my lights right now, …I would feel happy.” – WSLS 10

Five things you need to know today …

Virginia cases up to 94, Norfolk man tests positive- According to the Virginia Department of Health, there are 94 cases of coronavirus in the state, jumping from 77 reported Wednesday. The VDH also reports that 1,923 people have been tested and 19 are hospitalized. – WSLS 10


Central Virginia Colleges Postpone Commencements- Many Virginia universities are beginning to cancel their spring commencement ceremonies in order to prevent further spread of the coronavirus. The University of Richmond and James Madison University are postponing to an undisclosed later date. Virginia Commonwealth University has moved their ceremony to December 2020. Virginia Tech, however, says their commencement will go on as planned for now. –  Dogwood and NBC 12


Child Tests Positive for Coronavirus in Gloucester- A Virginia child under the age 10 tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus in Gloucester County. According to the Virginia Department of Health, this is the first case for the Three Rivers Health District, which includes Middlesex, Lancaster and Gloucester counties. The child is recovering at home with their family while health officials investigate the possibility of community spread. – WAVY 10


Sentara Opens Drive-Thru Testing- Virginia hospital system Sentara will be reopening two of its drive-thru COVID-19 screening and testing locations on Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sentara has received additional testing kits and will re-open sites at Sentara Princess Anne Hospital in Virginia Beach and Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center. In order to be tested, you must have two of three symptoms: a temperature at or above 100.4 degrees, cough or shortness of breath. You’re also eligible if you have been in contact with a COVID-19 positive person or have traveled to a place with an outbreak. You’re also eligible if you’re over the age of 60 or have health complications. – Richmond Times-Dispatch


Fairfax calls for Northam to implement “Bolder and swifter” measures- Lt. Gov Justin Fairfax urges Gov. Ralph Northam to take “bolder and swifter measures” to respond to the novel coronavirus pandemic. In a letter written to the governor, Fairfax suggests the ban of public mass gatherings & the closing of bars, restaurants, theaters and gyms until April 15, among other suggestions. As of March 19, two people in Virginia have died from respiratory failure due to COVID-19. – Richmond Times-Dispatch