Statewide COVID updates from Health Dept.

||| FROM STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH |||

Newest numbers. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) reported a total of 486,574 confirmed cases as of 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 23. In all, there have been 6,417 deaths in Washington due to COVID-19.

For the most recent data on cases by county, demographics, and more, visit the Department of Health’s dashboard and the Washington Ready and COVID-19 Risk Assessment Dashboard. 

Testing remains critical tool in fight against COVID-19. Now, it’s easier than ever for people who buy home tests to report their own results. Find out which test is best, how to report, and what to do when you get your result.

COVID-19 response update media briefing. Secretary of Health Umair A. Shah and other response leaders will provide a media briefing Wednesday, Aug. 25, 8:15–9:15 a.m. PT. Please join 5-10 minutes early.

• TVW will livestream the briefing here. 
• Reporters participating in the Q&A must register here.
• If you would like to ask a question, you must register and log into the Zoom conference, and email doh-pio@doh.wa.gov with subject line Briefing Question.

FDA grants full approval of the Pfizer vaccine. Gov. Jay Inslee said this milestone should boost confidence in the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. He also encouraged all Washingtonians to make informed vaccine choices. Read the full Aug. 23 statement.

Inslee issues new proclamations for facial coverings and vaccine requirements. Facial coverings are now required in all places generally accessible to people outside one’s household. Vaccination is also now required of all employees, on-site contractors and volunteers at all K-12 schools, higher educational institutions, and early learning and child care programs.  Read the full Aug. 20 Governor’s news release.

New guidance on self-testing. Learn what home tests mean and what to do after getting your result.

COVID-19 at long-term care facilities. As of Aug. 23, a total of 21,767 COVID-19 cases and 2,737 deaths in Washington have been associated with — or likely associated with — a nursing home, assisted living facility, or adult family home. These cases include residents as well as employees and visitors. Read the full report updated Aug. 24.

Resources

Latest COVID-19 reopening guidance for businesses and workers. A full list of current reopening guidance from the Governor’s Office.

Find a COVID-19 testing location near you. To make it easier to find a test near you, the DOH has created a webpage to help people find COVID-19 testing locations throughout the state.

Guidance and resources for employers and business owners. Sign up for the weekly Economic Resiliency Team business and worker newsletter.

The state COVID-19 Assistance Hotline is for general COVID-19 information and questions. Call 1-800-525-0127, then press # or text 211-211 for help. Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and on state holidays. You can also text the word “Coronavirus” to  211-211 to receive links to the latest COVID-19 information on your phone, including county-level updates, and resources for families, businesses and students.

Washington Listens support line helps people manage stress and anxiety. If you or anyone you know is having difficulties managing stress right now, call the Washington Listens support line at 1-833-681-0211 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. TTY and language access services are available by using 7-1-1 or your preferred method. Resources and self-help tips are also available on walistens.org.