March 30, 2021

COVID-19 variant confirmed in Kitsap County; COVID-19 cases increasing

Existing COVID-19 prevention strategies, including vaccination, masking, distancing, and handwashing, are effective against variants. 

KITSAP COUNTY, WA — A variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been confirmed in Kitsap County for the first time. 

According to the Washington State Department of Health, a recent Kitsap County case was found to have the B.1.1.7 mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The B.1.1.7 strain first emerged in the United Kingdom and has spread widely in the United States. Cases have been reported in several Washington counties. The state Department of Health will include the Kitsap County case this week in its Sequencing and Variants report.

The B.1.1.7 variant poses an increased risk to public health because it spreads more easily from person to person. Studies also indicate the variant is more likely to cause severe illness and death.

All the available COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide good protection against the B.1.1.7 strain. Other prevention strategies, including masking, distancing, and handwashing, are effective at preventing the spread of COVID-19 variants. 

"The emergence of COVID-19 variants increases the potential for more people in our community to become sick, be hospitalized, and potentially die from this pandemic," Kitsap Public Health District Health Officer Dr. Gib Morrow said. "Fortunately, we have the tools we need to stop these mutated viruses from spreading. I'm asking all Kitsap residents to keep fighting the spread of COVID-19 and be ready to get vaccinated as soon as they are able."

For more information on COVID-19 variants and how variants are tracked, visit the state Department of Health and CDC websites.

COVID-19 CASES ON THE RISE

After declining throughout January and February, COVID-19 activity is now increasing in Kitsap County. The rate of new cases reported per 100,000 population over 14 days — a key indicator in our state's recovery plans — rose from less than 70 at the start of March to about 90 last week.

Hospitalizations for COVID-19 remain elevated. Forty-eight COVID-19 associated deaths have occurred since the start of 2021. The largest proportion of recent cases have been reported in South Kitsap, but new cases are occurring in all areas of the county. 

Contact tracers report that gatherings, workplace exposures, and household spread continue to contribute to increased case loads. Clusters of COVID-19 cases have recently been reported in connection with family celebrations and community events, including weddings and church functions. 

Dr. Morrow noted that COVID-19 activity peaked after the winter holiday season. Our county could be on the verge of a similar wave this spring. 

"With spring holidays and vacations just around the corner, we need to take extra caution to prevent another explosion of cases," Dr. Morrow said. 

If you choose to gather with people from outside your household: 

• Keep your gathering small
• Visit outdoors with plenty of space
• Wear masks 
• Avoid sharing eating utensils and dishes

Find more tips for safer gatherings at coronavirus.wa.gov. 

Fight the spread of COVID-19

• Wear a mask
• Stay at least six feet apart from people you don't live with
• Wash your hands frequently
• Stay home and avoid contact with others if you feel sick
• Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or have had contact with someone who has COVID-19
• Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible

MEDIA CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org