US Schools supply food to combat coronavirus shortage

Schools around the United States are feeding students who rely on free or reduced meals and are out of class because of the new coronavirus.

Families in lower income neighborhoods are grateful for the resource, but concerned about job security and the cost of child care.

Fairfax County Public Schools in northern Virgina now has 18 pick-up locations where students can get a free breakfast, lunch and other supplies.

Parents say it's been hard to find certain grocery items at the store since everyone is stocking up to follow guidelines for social distancing.

The district's food distribution sites are also trying to limit the spread of COVID-19 by asking people to sanitize their hands before taking the food home to eat.

Nichole Rocke, a grandmother to three students, had mixed feelings about the free resource.

"I mean it makes me feel grateful, but at the same time part of me is hesitant to come here because there are people here," Rocke said. "And unfortunately I have no choice but to bring my grandchildren. I live with my daughter and we tag team it so that we can both work."

All schools and administrative offices in Fairfax County are closed until further notice.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

The vast majority of people recover from the new virus.

According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.