South Kitsap resident tests positive for COVID-19
A South Kitsap resident has tested positive for COVID-19.
The individual, a person in their 40s, is in isolation. The Kitsap Public Health District is working as quickly as possible to notify people identified as having been in close contact with the affected individual.
This is the third positive case of novel coronavirus reported in Kitsap County.
"Unfortunately, we expect to see more cases of COVID-19 in our county in the coming days and weeks, especially as testing becomes more available," Kitsap Public Health District Health Officer Dr. Susan Turner said.
"We need to work together as a community to slow the spread of this illness and protect our neighbors who are most at risk. We are asking all Kitsap residents to stay calm, stay informed and take steps to protect their health and the health of those around them. It is very important to stay home when you are sick and we encourage community members to assist friends and family who may need to stay home."
COVID-19 TESTING
Tests for COVID-19 are ordered by health care providers, who receive guidance from the Washington State Department of Health. The capacity for COVID-19 testing in Washington has been limited but is expanding. See the Department of Health website for more information about testing.
Kitsap Public Health updates its website daily with the number of positive and negative COVID-19 tests reported by labs to the state. The health district does not have access to the number of tests submitted to private laboratories, such as the University of Washington. This means we are unable to report the number of COVID-19 tests pending for Kitsap County.
Find more local COVID-19 information and sign up for updates at KitsapPublicHealth.org.
COVID-19 Testing Update For Kitsap
Total positive tests: 3
Total negative tests: 41
Note: Our website is updated at 2 p.m. daily with testing results reported to the state.
 |
|
Download a printable COVID-19 fact sheet
from Kitsap Public Health:
|
Protect Your Health
Everyone should take simple steps to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.
- Wash hands often with soap and water.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when sick and avoid close contact with others.
Recommendations For People At Higher Risk
Some people are at higher risk for serious illness, including:
- People with underlying health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Older adults
We recommend people who are at higher risk for serious illness avoid crowds as much as possible to reduce close contact with people who are sick. Find more guidance here.
 |
|
"We know this is a stressful time... Please consider your neighbors and your family members who may need a little bit of extra help."
Dr. Susan Turner
|
What Should I Do If I Feel Sick?
Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Most people who have COVID-19 experience mild illness similar to a cold or flu.
If you are sick, you should stay home and rest. If you feel you need medical evaluation or you are at higher risk for serious illness, stay home and call your health care provider for guidance.
See the Department of Health’s guidelines people who have COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19.
COVID-19 Testing
COVID-19 tests must be ordered by health care providers. See the Department of Health website for more information about COVID-19 testing in Washington.
Preparing For COVID-19
Kitsap Public Health is not recommending public gatherings be canceled at this time. However, the health district supports community leaders in making informed decisions about their events and we are sharing Department of Health guidance to assist event planners.
If needed, public health may recommend additional prevention strategies in the community, such as alternative work and school arrangements, or cancellation of public events. Kitsap residents should have a plan in case they or their children need to stay home.
STAY INFORMED
|