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It seems each new day brings more reminders about the upside-down, uncertain world we are now living in.

Virtually everyone’s lives and livelihoods have been affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. A seemingly unending stream of current news and projections on what the future could hold seem grim to even the most optimistic among us.

The state of Virginia now has 1,250 confirmed cases of COVID-19, according to the latest number released by the Virginia Department of Health on Tuesday morning.

The number is a 22.5-percent increase from Monday’s count of 1,020.

There are 165 hospitalizations reported and 27 deaths.

Confirmed cases in the Western Tidewater Health District now number 10. There are four cases each in Suffolk and Isle of Wight County, with one case each in Franklin and Southampton County. There has been one death, that of a man in his 60s who had several underlying medical conditions.

But while underscoring the seriousness of this pandemic and the real, negative effects it is having on local people, we aim to also report all of the positive things that are happening. Ordinary people are helping other people weather the storm, all of the front-line employees in our community are showing how truly brave and heroic they are, and people of all ages all over Suffolk are getting truly creative in how they work, learn, connect with others virtually and more.

Just as a reminder, the Virginia Department of Health offers these tips to lower the risk of respiratory germ spread:

• Elderly and those at-risk should stay at home as much as possible; if not possible, avoid large gatherings
• Practice social distancing of 6 feet or more.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Avoid contact with sick people.
• Limit travel as much as possible.