It has now been 100 days since the first reported case of COVID-19 in the U.S. was confirmed here in Snohomish County. A lot has changed since January 20.
Across our community, residents and businesses have suffered from losing loved ones, illness, fear, and the economic impacts. This pandemic has closed our schools, companies large and small, and recreational activities. Milestones and gatherings for graduations, funerals, and weddings have been impacted as well.
Snohomish County has also seen its communities banding together. People are volunteering and donating to help those in need. Businesses are adapting operations to fill critical needs and to keep customers safe. Schools are adjusting to a new way of educating students and supporting families. The community is rallying around frontline employees and healthcare workers.
While there is much left to do, the people and partners in Snohomish County have still weathered quite a storm. The Snohomish Health District, Snohomish County and the Department of Emergency Management’s Joint Information Center have created a video recapping some of those events and achievements.
VIDEO: A look back at the response to COVID-19 in Snohomish County
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our partners and the community for their support, collaboration, and resolve,” said Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the Snohomish Health District. “Public health has asked a lot of you in the first 100 days. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and they are very much appreciated.”
“People from all across our community have suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “The public’s strong partnership and quick actions have been the key for driving down the curve in Snohomish County. We will continue to focus on saving lives, providing accurate information, and making decisions based on the best available science.”
“We found ourselves thrust into the spotlight in the early days of the pandemic, and I am proud of the work that the Snohomish Health District and Snohomish County have done in the months since then,” said Stephanie Wright, County Councilmember and Chair of the Board of Health. “The people of Snohomish County have proven once again just how strong and resilient our communities can be when we work together.”
The Snohomish Health District has also published a blog today. It looks back at the first 100 days and how guidance and messaging have evolved.
The health and safety of Snohomish County remains a top priority. The community is encouraged to help prevent the spread of illness and to support the response to this outbreak by staying informed and sharing reliable information. This is a very fluid situation and information will be updated at www.snohd.org/ncov2019 and the Health District’s social media channels.
For more information please read the joint press release.
Governor Jay Inslee gave an update to the State's response to the coronavirus pandemic today. The briefing included a short discussion of allowing some non-urgent (elective) surgeries and procedures and an announcement that the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order will be extended past May 4, without a specified end date. There was a lengthy discussion of the metrics that must be considered to start opening the economy in phases. The Governor plans to show the phases in which the economy will be reopened in a news conference on Friday, May 1.
Tune into TVW to watch the recording.
The Snohomish Health District (SHD) updated operational guidelines for farmers markets as the list of essential services may expand or contract over time. SHD encourages managers and vendors to remain flexible throughout market season.
Please visit SHD’s webpage to review the updated guidance.
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