For the past few weeks, counties across the nation have been seeing an increase in coronavirus cases and deaths. In Snohomish County, the 2-week case rate increased to 428 per 100k through Dec. 5. Even with hope on the horizon as the COVID vaccine emerges, it remains crucial to follow social distancing rules, wear masks, and limit large indoor social gatherings.
Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the Snohomish Health District, explains details on the current health crisis in Snohomish County, steps we can take to bend the curve, what's happening with the COVID vaccine.
For the past few weeks, counties across the nation have been seeing an increase in coronavirus cases and deaths. In Snohomish County, the 2-week case rate increased to 428 per 100k through Dec. 5. Roughly two-thirds of these cases are from close contacts or acquired in the community.
“This means that people are getting COVID from folks that they know or live with or in community settings like workplaces, church and also social gatherings,” said Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the Snohomish Health District.
The county has 44 long-term care facilities accounting for roughly 500 cases in recent weeks. Hospitalization numbers remain high, but relatively stable. Deaths are increasing and mirroring numbers in the springtime. There were 52 COVID deaths from Nov. 1-28.
“Those are all signals that COVID is going up and appears to be doing so without any interruption,” Dr. Spitters said.
The best way to slow the spread is to only leave the home for essential tasks. That being said, with the holiday season right around the corner, Dr. Spitters and the Snohomish Health District recommend changing up some traditions with loved ones. Suggestions to limit COVID transmission include:
- Wearing face coverings whenever you’re around people outside of those in your household, even close friends and family.
- Staying home and not traveling this year for the holidays.
- Limiting gatherings to small celebrations with household members or outdoor gatherings while staying 6-feet apart.
- Finding drive-thru light displays or outdoor holiday activities to enjoy the season.
Snohomish County officials have been planning and preparing for COVID-19 vaccine distribution since late-July. An interim distribution plan has been shared, as well as draft plans for phased implementation among prioritized groups.
The Snohomish Health District was also selected by the Washington State Department of Health and the CDC to be the state’s test site for mock vaccine delivery last week. Officials plan to release more information on the vaccine to the public soon.
Sponsored by Snohomish Health District. Segment Producer Derek Haas. Watch New Day Northwest 11 AM weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.