 COVID-19 BULLETIN
Tuesday, October 13, 2020
Recap of Recent COVID-19 News and Updates
Statewide Response Updates
Newest numbers. The Department of Health reported a total of 94,775 confirmed cases as of 11:59 pm on October 12. There have been 2,211 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.
Recording of Gov. Inslee's press conference on COVID-19 available. Today the governor was joined by David Schumacher and Dan McConnon of the Office of Financial Management and State Health Officer Kathy Lofy. A recording of the press conference is available from TVW here.
Safer Gatherings. This time of year, families and friends will be making choices about whether or not to gather for celebrations, game days or other seasonal events. Gathering in groups—even with people we know—may spread COVID-19. The more people we interact with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the risk of becoming infected.
The safest action, especially if you’re in a high-risk category, is to avoid gatherings and find different ways to celebrate. Visit the Safe Gatherings webpage for information on alternatives to gatherings, ways to have safer gatherings, and how to have conversations with friends and family about fall and winter gatherings.
Flu vaccine should be considered “essential” 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.
Inslee announces new state group for COVID-19 economic recovery. Gov. Jay Inslee today introduced a new state effort to help communities recover from the social and economic damage wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Though the state continues to battle the deadly virus, the Washington Recovery Group will help strengthen the state’s recovery efforts. The new group will help state agencies coordinate with local governments, higher education and the private sector. Read the full news release.
The Great Washington ShakeOut 2020. The Great Washington ShakeOut will happen at 10:15 a.m., Oct. 15 as planned, but it may look a little different with virtual events and practicing earthquake drills at home, instead of school or work. Check out the Emergency Management Division's blog for tips. For media, the state Emergency Operations Center located at Camp Murray in Pierce County will make itself available for video.
Sporting activities frequently asked questions. View the updated FAQ here.
Resources
Latest COVID-19 reopening guidance for businesses and workers. A full list of current reopening guidance is available here.
Find a COVID-19 testing location near you. To make it easier to find a test near you, the Department of Health 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 business and worker newsletter here.
Washington 211 COVID-19 call center is a general information line related to COVID-19. If you need information or have a general question, call 1-800-525-0127 or text 211-211 for help. You can also text the word “Coronavirus” to 211-211 to receive information and updates on your phone wherever you are. You will receive links to the latest information on COVID-19, including county-level updates, and resources for families, businesses, students, and more.
Washington Listens helps people manage stress and anxiety they may be experiencing because of COVID-19. If you or anyone you know is having difficulties managing stress, call the Washington Listens support line at 1-833-681-0211. Hours are 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 their preferred method. Resources and self-help tips are available on walistens.org.
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