Montgomery County Announces Closures and Updates Connected to COVID-19

For Immediate Release: Thursday, March 12, 2020

County Executive Marc Elrich was joined by Montgomery County Council President Sidney Katz, School Superintendent Dr. Jack Smith, County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles and other County leaders at a news conference March 12 to provide residents with an update on the COVID-19 response.

Elrich announced that based on the state school superintendent’s guidance, all public schools will be closed March 16-27.  MCPS officials will have more information on the plans for makeup days on Tuesday, March 17.

County Recreation Centers and programs will be cancelled beginning Monday, March 16.

Montgomery County Public Libraries will be closed beginning Monday, March 16. 

Montgomery Parks programs and indoor facilities will close from March 16 until March 31.

Starting Monday, March 16, County government workers will move to a telework schedule for employees who can and consider other social distancing and protective measures for employees who have direct contact with the public.

Effective immediately, Montgomery County will be following the state’s guidelines of a limit of no more than 250 people for public gatherings.

These measures are designed to try and slow down the spread of the disease.

According to Gayles, the first three Montgomery County residents who tested positive last week have completed treatment and are now doing well. All the residents who have tested positive over the past week (and there are now six in Montgomery County) are doing well and recovering.

Montgomery County’s public health team has been working night and day to respond to the investigation and will continue to work to identify those at risk and test appropriate individuals.

While the availability of testing has expanded, there is still specific criteria based on CDC and State guidelines about who will be tested.

If you are sick and experiencing symptoms, you should see your health care provider but call them first to ensure they prepare appropriately for your visit.  The decision to test someone for COVID-19 will be determined by health officials working in conjunction with a provider.  Currently, there is not on-demand testing available.

For information, including COVID-19 videos and more, visit the County’s website and monitor our social media for breaking news and other updates. 

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Release ID: 20-080
Media Contact: Julie Parker