DASH Bus Mourns Loss Of Bus Driver To Coronavirus

ALEXANDRIA, VA — A DASH bus driver in Alexandria has died of complications related to COVID-19, the transit company announced Sunday.

The employee, who was not identified publicly, tested positive for the coronavirus on June 23. The bus driver had last worked on June 21.

"We are devastated by this loss and extend our deepest condolences to the family," Alexandria Transit Company said in a statement.

A contract tracing investigation in coordination with the Alexandria Health Department was completed. No close contacts were identified, but all equipment was fully disinfected as a precaution.

DASH noted the health and safety measures it has taken since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front-line and office workers have access to personal protective equipment exceeding Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, including masks and the installation of plexiglass driver barriers on DASH buses. Bud drivers are monitored for symptoms before each shift daily. Those who show symptoms are tested and isolate until safe to return to work.

We also continue offering counseling services to support the mental health of our employees. Operators monitor for symptoms daily before each shift and those who become symptomatic are tested and required to self-isolate until safe to return to work. While many places have lifted mask requirements for people who are fully vaccinated, masks are federally required on public transportation like DASH. Masks are provided by DASH as needed.

"We remain committed to slowing the spread of the virus by actively communicating our policy to passengers and encouraging all DASH employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19," the transit company stated.

To date, Alexandria has seen 11,879 cumulative COVID-19 cases, 570 hospitalizations and 139 deaths. New cases, hospitalizations and deaths have been trending low lately, according to Virginia Department of Health data. The seven-day average of new cases is two in the city, while the average of new deaths and hospitalizations is zero.