 Because we are experiencing an unprecedented surge in viral respiratory illnesses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and COVID-19, health officers and healthcare leaders from across the region are now recommending people wear masks indoors. A high-quality, well-fitting mask is a key line of defense against acquiring and spreading these diseases.
The recommendation for masking comes as hospitals across the country, including King County, are overwhelmed by this trifecta of illnesses coming right before the holidays. Flu hospitalizations across Washington state are roughly three times higher compared to the previous three years.
In addition to wearing masks, health leaders continue to recommend that everyone over 6 months should get a flu shot and people ages 5 and over a COVID booster.
By using multiple, layered strategies to limit the impact of these viruses we can help reduce their spread and severity during this especially hard respiratory virus season and help relieve serious stress on our healthcare system.
Nothing will get you in the holiday mood like helping others. If you have the resources to do so, consider donating to a local toy or food drive so that families in need can share in the joy.
You can drop off unwrapped toys for kids ages 0-12 and/or gift cards for those aged 13 and up at Centro Cultural Mexicano in Redmond now through December 16. You can also donate nonperishable food items and unwrapped toys at the 3rd Annual Community Holiday Food and Toy Drive, sponsored by City of Kirkland, Lake Washington School District, and the Y, on Saturday, December 17 at Juanita High School.
Happy retirement to King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg
 King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg
This Tuesday, I was honored to read a proclamation from the Council at a retirement event for King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg. He has served the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (PAO) for 37 years, including 17 years as Chief of Staff to Norm Maleng and 15 years as the elected Prosecuting Attorney.
Satterberg has been a local and national leader for criminal justice reform by bringing racial equity to the forefront, inviting community partners into this critical body of work, developing innovative public health responses, and shining a spotlight on the need to invest in re-entry services. In addition, he has fundamentally reshaped and strengthened support for victims through increasing the PAO’s commitment to intentional victim advocacy and services. I was touched by the many members of Dan’s staff who spoke to the kindness, generosity and humor with which he has led the Prosecutor’s Office. I wish him well on a rewarding retirement.
Spread the word!
Please forward this email widely and invite others to sign-up to my email updates to receive important and timely information for District 6 constituents.
Sincerely,
 Claudia Balducci
King County Council
District 6
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