||| FROM DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY SERVICES |||
Newest numbers. The Department of Health reported a total of 99,150 confirmed cases as of 11:59 pm on October 19. There have been 2,282 COVID-19 deaths in Washington.
For the most recent tally of cases by county, demographics, and more, visit the Department of Health’s dashboard and the state’s COVID-19 risk assessment dashboard.
Weekly COVID-19 response update media briefing tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. The weekly COVID-19 response update media briefing with leaders from the governor’s office and DOH will be tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. TVW will livestream the briefing here.
Concern that climb in cases means ‘fall surge’ is starting; Experts say we must act now to reverse trend. Data from the Washington State Department of Health show that case numbers in western Washington counties are climbing at an alarming rate, near or beyond previous peaks in some areas. As cases in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties continue to trend sharply upward, health officials warn we may now be entering the fall surge. Read the full news release here.
It’s more important than ever to get a flu vaccine this year. While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our daily lives, autumn brings with it another unwanted visitor – the flu. The presence of both viruses could put more people in the hospital and strain Washington’s health care system. While we don’t yet have a vaccine to prevent COVID-19, we do have one to prevent flu.
For help finding a health care provider or vaccine location, and to learn more about flu, visit www.KnockOutFlu.org
Recording of Gov. Inslee’s press conference on COVID-19 available. Today the governor was joined by Michael Meotti, executive director of the Washington Student Achievement Council, and Lacy Fehrenbach, deputy secretary of health, Department of Health. A recording of the press conference is available from TVW here.
COVID-19 Stories from the Field: It takes a village. In the first few weeks of the pandemic, Alejandra Grillo-Roa, a Seattle-area social worker, got an early lesson in how the virus might affect vulnerable populations. Read Alejandra’s story in DOH’s latest blog post here.
The COVID-19: Stories from the Field series highlights the efforts of public health professionals and public servants who serve and collaborate to support a healthy Washington during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Safer Gatherings: Coping While Apart. During normal times, the fall and winter months are wonderful times to gather. So, limiting and changing the way in which we gather with family and friends isn’t easy. It may cause feelings of stress, anxiety or depression. This time of year, it’s important that we practice self-care and support others who may be feeling lonely or isolated.
If you are experiencing stress due to COVID-19 call the Washington Listens line at 833-681-0211 for support and resources.
If you know someone who is struggling, reach out. Reassure them that you are there for them. Some ideas for how to show support while maintaining physical distance:
- Set a regular day or time for a check in call or video chat.
- Mail them a letter offering words of encouragement and love.
- Drop off a homemade treat, takeout from their favorite restaurant, or a favorite book.
- Listen without judgment.
- Reassure them that it is ok to feel sad, anxious, and lonely during this time, and that this is not forever. Also remind them there is help available to them if they need it.
- If possible, arrange for both of you to get tested, then self-quarantine for two weeks. Then you can plan a long visit to help give them the support and comfort they may need this time of year.
For more information and tips on safer gatherings this fall, visit coronavirus.wa.gov/gatherings.
