• HOME
  • Resources
    • Housing & Utilities >
      • Rent Assistance
    • Finances/Unemployment/Business Owners
    • Food
    • Childcare / Parenting
    • Teen Center
    • Senior Services
    • Neighbors Helping Neighbors
    • Veterans Services
    • Behavioral Health & Health Resources
    • Developmental Disabilities / Special Health Care Needs
  • Get Tested
  • Blog
  • Get Vaccinated
  • Data
  • If you have COVID-19
  • COVID Treatments
  • At Home Testing
  • Report At Home Test
  • Other Prevalent Health Concerns
  PACIFIC COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES COVID-19 NEWS & RESOURCES
  • HOME
  • Resources
    • Housing & Utilities >
      • Rent Assistance
    • Finances/Unemployment/Business Owners
    • Food
    • Childcare / Parenting
    • Teen Center
    • Senior Services
    • Neighbors Helping Neighbors
    • Veterans Services
    • Behavioral Health & Health Resources
    • Developmental Disabilities / Special Health Care Needs
  • Get Tested
  • Blog
  • Get Vaccinated
  • Data
  • If you have COVID-19
  • COVID Treatments
  • At Home Testing
  • Report At Home Test
  • Other Prevalent Health Concerns

Top Ten Reasons to Wear a Mask

6/29/2020

4 Comments

 
Information courtesy of the Washington State Department of Health 
​June 26, 2020
Read original article here. 

First things first... Practice Compassion! 

​If you see someone not wearing their mask, just respectfully leave them alone. Some people have medical reasons not to wear a mask. ​​
Picture

Top 10 Reasons to Wear a Mask ​

10 So the kids can go back to school 

9 So small businesses can open/stay open 

The best way to keep the kids safe at school is to make sure the level of COVID-19 in your community is very low. Wear a mask to make sure your community can keep your kids healthy at school. 
The quickest way to open our economy is to control the virus. As more of our countries move to Phase 2 and 3, and more people are out and about, we need to make sure we keep the virus from spreading. Wear a cloth face covering to protect our businesses. 

8 To be a leader in the community  

Set a great example for others in your community. Take care of others and show them how it's done. 

7 Because it's rude to make other's sick 

You wouldn't cough on someone or sneeze in their face. Now we have a new germ that can be spread to others when we talk or breathe. Cover your face to keep your germs to yourself. 

6 To show essential workers how much we appreciate them   

Our essential workers have taken the risk to continue to go to work to keep up fed and to keep the services we all reply on running. Thank them by protecting their health by covering your face. 

5 To express yourself

Make other people smile behind their masks! Some masks have slogans and other messages printed on them. Use your mask to express your freedom of speech and promote what you care about. Or, write your name on it - keep people from wondering who you are. 

4 To leave the house

You know, at all. To get your haircut. To see your family and friends. 

3 To support your cause

Many non-profits are selling masks to raise money for a charity, and some will even match your mask purchase by donating masks to people who need them. Support your local school, human rights, environmental protection, access to health care, or any number of causes you support on your mask. 

​2 To save money on liptstick

Or cover a pimple. Whatever reasons you want!

1 It literally saves lives

Fewer people will die if we all wear our masks. Who doesn't want to be a part of that? 

Need more reasons? Check out the Department of Health website and the Governor’s coronavirus page.


More information from the Washington State Department of Health 

Stay tuned to their blog for more information on how you can help stop the spread of COVID-19. Sign up to be notified whenever new articles are posted. Information in this blog changes rapidly. Check the state's COVID-19 website for up-to-date and reliable information at coronavirus.wa.gov.
Answers to your questions or concerns about COVID-19 in Washington State can be found on the DOH website. You can also contact their call center at 1-800-525-0127 between the hours of 6am - 10pm, seven days a week. 
4 Comments

The Science of Masks

6/23/2020

1 Comment

 
​It seems like everyone is talking about masks. But how much do we really know about how much a cloth face covering can protect us from COVID-19? So much more than before!

Prior to this pandemic, there wasn’t a whole lot of research going on into the benefit of wearing cloth face coverings to prevent COVID-19, which, of course, we didn’t even know about until six months ago. Some researchers compared countries that promoted face masks as part of their early response to COVID-19 to countries, like the US, that did not. The countries that promoted face masks ended up with fewer cases than the countries that did not. Research is continuing, and we’re still learning more, but here’s what the science is telling us now
Picture

What we do know 

  • ​COVID-19 can be spread by people who do not know they have it (yet).
  • Having COVID-19 and not having any symptoms feels the same as feeling “healthy” or “normal.” The difference is, with COVID-19, you are contagious.
  • The virus that causes COVID-19 is likely spread by droplets that you exhale when you are normally breathing, as well as when you are talking, singing, coughing or sneezing. These droplets can float in the air and infect people who are near you.
  • These droplets are more likely to reach other people if you are within 6 feet in an indoor space with poor ventilation.
  • A cloth face covering helps you keep your breath, and those droplets, to yourself. You are even more likely to keep all those droplets to yourself if you are also standing six feet away from other people. And it works even better if the people around you are also wearing cloth face coverings.
  • Researchers reviewed the scientific literature looking at the effectiveness of surgical masks and cloth face coverings. They found that the masks and cloth face coverings were effective at preventing the spread of COVID-19—if we wear them! The biggest limitation in their effectiveness was inconsistent mask use.
This means that people who feel healthy need to wear a cloth face covering in public places—especially indoors—and stay at least six feet away from other people.

And, no, wearing a cloth face covering is not at all likely to restrict your oxygen or make you breathe too much carbon dioxide or affect your immune system. If you feel dizzy or light headed, or have trouble breathing, sit down and remove your mask. If it continues, call 911.

Numbers. The latest numbers are updated on the DOH webpage. As of 11:59 p.m. on June 21, there are 477,204 people in Washington who have been tested for COVID-19. Of those, 28,870 people (or 6.0%) have tested positive for COVID-19. Of those, 4,062 people had to be hospitalized, and 1,276 people (or 4.4%) have died of the disease.

Practice compassion. “Everyone shall wear a mask. Those who are not doing so are not showing their independence—they are only showing their indifference for the lives of others.” Sydney Morning Herald, February 3, 1919. Even before the modern research, people understood that wearing a mask is an act of compassion for others.
1 Comment

Safe Cleaning and Disinfection Guidance for Public Spaces

6/17/2020

20 Comments

 

Safe Cleaning and Disinfection Guidance for Public Spaces

Download article here. 
Picture
This guidance describes safe cleaning and disinfecting practices for businesses, parks and other public spaces to ensure cleanliness and safety. Find safe operating guidance for food service, schools ad childcare on the DOH Resources and Recommendations website. 

To control the spread of COVID-19 everyone must exercise the following important preventative measures to protect others and themselves.
  • Stay home when sick
  • ​Wash your hands often - learn more
  • Do not touch your face
  • Wear a cloth face covering in public - learn more
  • Maintain a physical distance of at least 6-feet away from others  
In addition to physical distancing, cloth face coverings, and hand washing, reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfecting our workplaces and homes safely. 

Personal Hygiene


​Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Soap kills the virus that causes COVID-19.
​
  • Wash hands after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing, sneezing, and nose blowing.
  • Provide plain fragrance-free/dye-free liquid/foaming soap. Fragrances irritate about a third of people. Do not use “antimicrobial” soaps. They are not effective against COVID-19, are not necessary, and are not good for human health or the environment.
  • If soap and water are not available, use a fragrance-free/dye-free hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Picture
Click image to enlarge

Cleaning and Disinfection

Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs, from surfaces using soap or detergent. Cleaning alone does not kill germs, but thorough cleaning will significantly decrease their numbers and lower the risk of spreading infection.
​
Sanitizing reduces germs on surfaces to levels that are safe.

Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces.

Establish a schedule for cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, service counters, bathrooms, and athletic areas based on their use. Commercial kitchens, medical facilities, and childcare facilities need to follow their specific regulations for appropriate cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfection. 

1. How to clean and disinfect 

  • Sanitizers and disinfectants do not work if the surface has organic matter or dirt.
  • Clean with soap, water, and a microfiber cloth to remove most microorganisms.
    • Consider using “green” cleaners with third party certification (Green Seal, EPA Fragrance-free Safer Choice) which are better for health and indoor air quality.
    • Launder or vacuum soft and porous surfaces. These items are difficult to disinfect and do not usually need to be. If they are frequently touched, consider removing or replacing with easily cleanable items. 
  • Sanitizers and disinfectants must be EPA registered anti-microbial pesticides. If they are not EPA registered, they are not an appropriate product. For COVID-19, choose a disinfectant approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and registered for use against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
    • When possible, chose safer fragrance-free disinfectants and sanitizers. Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based products are safer for human health and do not cause asthma. For guidance on choosing safer disinfectants:
      • EPA’s Design for the Environment Antimicrobial Pesticide (Safer Disinfectants) Program
      • California Department of Public Health’s Cleaning for Asthma-Safe Schools Guidance
      • The University of Washington’s Safer Cleaning, Sanitizing and Disinfecting Strategies to Reduce and Prevent COVID-19 Transmission
      • Safer Disinfectants on EPA’s List of Recommended Antimicrobial Products for Use Against Novel Human Coronavirus, Responsible Purchasing Network
    • When EPA-approved disinfectants are not available, other disinfectants can be used:
      • 70% isopropyl alcohol
      • 1/3 cup 6% bleach added to 1 gallon of water with a 1 minute wet contact time
      • Bleach is not a cleaner and bleach solutions for sanitizing and disinfecting are only to be used on cleaned and rinsed surfaces. When mixing bleach from concentrate, an emergency eyewash and good ventilation are required.
      • Do not mix bleach or other cleaning and disinfection products together. This can cause very dangerous fumes.
      • Quaternary ammonia products and bleach can cause asthma.
    • All facilities must have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each chemical used.​
Picture
Click image to enlarge
Picture
Click image to enlarge
Picture
Click image to enlarge
  • Apply disinfectants to high touch surfaces.
    • Always read the label of the product and follow its instructions, including application method, before using the product.
      • It is a violation of law to use a registered pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. Applying products using a different method than the label calls for could affect the efficacy and safety of the product.
    • Use the proper concentration of disinfectant.
    • The disinfectant must stay wet on the surface for the time required by the label in order to kill organisms. 
    • Follow the product label’s hazard warnings and instructions for personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection, and ventilation.
    • Use disinfectants in a well-ventilated space. As much as possible, disinfect surfaces when workers and visitors are not present. Thoroughly air out the area before occupants return.
    • Do not use fogging, fumigation, or wide-area spraying to control the spread of COVID-19. These methods are not effective, do not clean contaminated surfaces, and are hazardous to human health.

2. Guidance for specific areas and surfaces. Frequency will depend on use

Clean and disinfect elevator buttons, door handles, push bars, automatic door buttons, and other high-touch surfaces routinely. Cleaning and disinfect high touch areas four times per day, depending on use. 

Shared restrooms

Thoroughly clean and disinfect restrooms, including all high touch areas such as door handles, flush buttons or levers, counters, sink and shower handles, and light switches. Keep restrooms stocked with soap and paper towels. At remote locations without running water, provide alcohol-based sanitizers. Clean and disinfect high use restrooms twice a day if possible. At remote restrooms that cannot be cleaned and disinfected regularly, post signs to that effect and remind people to wash their hands thoroughly.

​Ensure exhaust ventilation systems are running continuously and as much fresh air is coming in as possible. If safe, keep windows open to increase ventilation.

Public drinking fountains and bottle fillers

Clean and disinfect the button or lever. Public drinking water supplies are safe. Clean and disinfect surfaces and buttons. Consider posting signage that includes:
  • Do not place your mouth on the spout of the fountain or allow your water bottle to contact the nozzle when refilling.
  • Allow water to flow for 10 seconds to allow fresh, clean water to come through prior to drinking.
  • If the fountain has a button or lever, clean before and after use, or use your elbow. Wash or sanitize your hands after use. 

Keyboards and other sensitive electronics

Use alcohol wipes or spray 70% isopropyl alcohol into a cloth to wipe electronics. Use a separate area of the cloth for each device. Wash and dry cloths after use. Wash hands before and after use of electronics and do not touch your face while using. Do not share items if you do not need to. 

Athletic equipment

Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that may contact skin at least daily and between use by different people. Surfaces (including mats) must be intact, without rips and tears, to be cleanable. Have separate cleaning mops and buckets for athletic areas.

Buses

Close seating on buses makes person-to-person transmission of respiratory viruses more likely. Reduce the number of riders to maintain a physical distance of 6-feet between riders and encourage riders to wear cloth face coverings. Keep windows open to reduce virus transmission, including airing out the bus between routes. Clean seats and rails with soap, water, and microfiber cloths. Disinfect handrails with an EPA approved disinfectant. 

Playgrounds

Do not spray disinfectants on outdoor playgrounds. Clean if needed. Require children to wash their hands with soap and water when they come inside or prior to eating or drinking.

​Face-to-face respiratory droplet transmission of children playing close together is the primary concern for virus transmission. Encourage children to maintain a physical distance of 6-feet from other children they do not live with. 

Children's Toys

Wash soft or porous children’s toys in the highest water temperature appropriate for the item and dry completely.

Clean hard plastic toys thoroughly. In general, thorough cleaning with soap and water is all that is necessary. Disinfectants can be harmful to children, especially if small children put them in their mouths. Select chemicals carefully and consider:
  • Is it corrosive?
  • Is it a skin, eye, or respiratory irritant?
  • Does it leave a residue?
  • Is it toxic by skin absorption, ingestion, or inhalation?

Soft (porous) surfaces 

Surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes require only routine cleaning appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions to launder items. Use the warmest water possible and dry completely.

​To clean carpets use truck-mounted hot water/steam extraction. Spot treat as needed first. Use the minimum amount necessary of low-odor and low-sudsing carpet shampoo. Thoroughly remove cleaner and dirt. The water should run clean. Carpet should dry thoroughly within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

Ventilation Systems 

There is no special cleaning or disinfection recommended for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems. If the HVAC system uses a cooling tower, ensure proper maintenance prior to reopening after extended closures. For more information about cooling towers and HVAC systems see:
  • The Cooling Technology Institute, and
  • New York State’s Department of Health webpage.

Ventilation is an important part of maintaining good indoor air quality and reducing transmission of respiratory diseases. Ventilate with as much outside air as possible before, during and after occupancy, and while cleaning and disinfecting. Open windows when possible. Upgrade to MERV 13 filters where feasible. Filters must fit tightly. Two-inch pleats provide greater filtration with less pressure drop. 

Cleaning and disinfecting an area after a person with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 has been in a facility

If it has been more than 7 days since the sick person visited or used the facility, additional cleaning and disinfection is not necessary. If it has been less than 7 days:
  • Open windows and doors in the building if it is safe and use ventilation fans to increase air circulation.
  • Wait 24 hours, or as long as possible, prior to cleaning and disinfecting the area.
  • Clean and disinfect all areas used by the ill person. This includes offices, bathrooms, common areas, shared electronic equipment like tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATMs.
  • Vacuum the space if necessary using a vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if available. Do not vacuum when people are present.
  • Area can be re-opened after the proper disinfecting is complete.

Additional cleaning and disinfection guidance  

  • EPA/CDC Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes
  • CDC: Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes
  • CDC: Interim Guidance for Administrators of US K-12 Schools and Child Care Programs
  • CDC: Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities

More COVID-19 Information and Resources

Stay up-to-date on the current COVID-19 situation in Washington, Governor Inslee’s proclamations, symptoms, how it spreads, and how and when people should get tested. See our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.

The risk of COVID-19 is not connected to race, ethnicity or nationality. Stigma will not help to fight the illness. Share accurate information with others to keep rumors and misinformation from spreading:
  • WA State Department of Health 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)
  • WA State Coronavirus Response (COVID-19)
  • Find Your Local Health Department or District
  • CDC Coronavirus (COVID-19)
  • Stigma Reduction Resources

Have more questions about COVID-19? Call our hotline: 1-800-525-0127. For interpretative services, press # when they answer and say your language. (Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.) For questions about your own health, COVID-19 testing, or testing results, please contact your health care provider.
20 Comments

Washington State Approved to Operate the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) Program

6/17/2020

2 Comments

 

Washington State Has Been Approved to Operate the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) Program

Picture
Click image to enlarge
Picture

What is the P-EBT?

P-EBT is a new and temporary food benefit to help families buy groceries. It works like a debit card, and can be used anywhere that accepts SNAP benefits. ALL kids who qualify for free or reduced lunch can receive the benefit of $5.50 per day per child, which for many families will be up to $399 per kid.  

Who can receive P-EBT?

​Students enrolled in a K-12 school that offers a school lunch program during the normal school year AND
- Is eligible for free or reduced-price school meals OR
- Is attending a school where meals are free for all students such as a Provision 2 or Community Eligibility Provision School

Can Immigrant Households Apply?

Yes. Using P-EBT benefits does not count as a public charge. P-EBT does not change a parent or child’s immigration status. P-EBT replaces school meals and are for all families that receive free and reduced price school meals

How can I access these services? 

  • Families who already get Basic Food – they will automatically get the P-EBT benefit.
  • Families who are eligible for free and reduced lunch but who do not get Basic Food – will need to apply on line (www.WashingtonConnection.org) or on the phone (877-501-2233) beginning June 28 and through the summer.
  • Apply one-time and get a one-time benefit.
  • Must apply prior to school start of 2020-21.
  • Info requested on application: Child’s first & last name; date of birth, name of child’s school or school district; parent or guardian name and mailing address (for EBT company). Card will be mailed and can be mailed to a different address to that the school may have. May take up to 35 days to review the application and mail the card.

Frequently Asked Questions 

  • Can families get P-EBT if kids did not get Free Reduced Lunch before schools close? 
    • Yes! If that family's income changed during the school year they need to apply before June 30th with their school of for Basic Food with DSHS. Then they have until August 31st to apply for P-EBT.
  • Do eligible running start high school students going to college qualify?
    • Yes! Please consult the FAQ link below for details
  • Are high school seniors who graduated eligible for the benefit?
    • Yes! As long as they are a graduating senior who was already signed up for the Free Reduced Lunch meals, or whose family already receives Basic Food are eligible 

Food Promotion 

Find delicious, budget-friendly and family-friends recipes below.
Print and enjoy with your family tonight! 
For additional recipes click here.

Thrifty Main Dishes

Kid Tested Fruits/Veggies

  • American Skillet (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Asian Skillet (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Chicken Breast with Orange Sauce (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Crispy Salmon Patties (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Festive Tuna Salad (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Fresh Vegetable Egg Salad Sandwich Filling (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Italian Skillet (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Quick and Easy Chili (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)​
  • Asian Beef Noodles (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Confetti Salad (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Crunchy Burritos (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Fruit Parfait (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Greens (.pdf)
  • Green Smoothies (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Kale Chips (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Sweet Potato Fries (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)
  • Vegetable Quesadillas (.pdf) | Spanish (.pdf)

Food Hero Cook Book
Héroe de Alimentos Cook Book
2 Comments

Washington State COVID-19 Status Report

6/12/2020

2 Comments

 

June 11, 2020

Four additional counties approved to advance to next phase of Safe Start plan 

Yesterday, Washington State Secretary of Health John Wiesman approved three additional counties to move into the next phase of Gov. Jay Inslee’s Safe Start plan. Chelan and Douglas counties are approved to move into a modified version of Phase 1 and Asotin and Skamania Counties are approved to move from Phase 2 to Phase 3.

Chopp announces Cap Gains and Employment Head Tax Proposal

​Former Speaker Rep. Frank Chopp (D-Seattle) announced a plan today for a $2B COVID-19 recovery based on a cap gains and employment head tax.  View HERE. 

Washington schools expected to reopen this fall with in-person learning 

Washington’s Superintendent of Public Instruction said Thursday that he expects school districts to reopen buildings and return to in-person learning next school year — as long as public health guidelines allow them to do so.

Chris Reykdal, the state’s superintendent of public instruction, and a work group of more than 120 educators, parents, students and community organizations released a 47-page document with new guidance Thursday that lays out what face-to-face instruction could look like come fall.

Counties in Phase 1 

The below counties are currently in Phase 1: ​
  • Benton
  • Chelan*​
​*Modified Phase 1
  • Douglas*
  • Franklin
*Modified Phase 1
  • King*
  • Yakima
*Modified Phase 1

Specific Guidance for Phase 1

Below you'll find specific guidance for the above counties: 

Essential Business GuidanceMany parts of the economy are already allowed to operate safely as essential businesses. For a list of essential businesses click here.
​
  • Agriculture – issued May 28
  • Additional Agricultural Guidance – issued June 2
  • Automotive, Energy, Food and Agriculture, Healthcare/Public Health, In-Home Care, Maintenance, Recreation, Real Estate, and Retail Guidance – issued March 31
  • Construction Guidance – issued March 25
  • Commercial driver license guidelines – issued May 7
  • Elective Surgeries Guidance – issued April 29
  • Funeral Guidance – issued March 28
  • Outdoor Guidance – issued April 27
  • Real Estate and Mortgage Guidance – issued March 27
  • List of approved essential workforce education programs – issued May 7 (Updated May 19) 
  • Essential workforce education program standards – issued May 7
Phase 1 Business Activity Guidelines
  • Additional Guidance on Voluntary Contact Information – issued May 15
  • Car Washes Requirements – issued May 7
  • Construction – issued April 24
  • Additional Construction Guidance – issued April 29
  • Curbside Retail – issued May 8
  • Higher Education – issued June 1
  • Landscape Services and Outdoor Maintenance Industry – issued May 8
  • Outdoor Recreation – issued May 14 (updated June 9)
  • Outdoor Recreation- Golf – issued May 15
  • Pet Walking Industry – issued May 8
  • Recreational Activities* – issued June 9
  • Religious and Faith Organizations – issued May 27
  • Spiritual drive-in services – issued May 6
  • Vehicle and Vessel Sales Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions – issued May 6
  • Washington Talking Book and Braille Library – issued June 2

Counties in Phase 2

The below counties are currently in Phase 2:
  • Adams
  • Clallam
  • Clark
  • Cowlitz
  • Grant
  • Grays Harbor
  • Island
  • Jefferson​
  • Kitsap
  • Kittitas
  • Klickitat
  • Lewis
  • Mason
  • Okanogan
  • Pacific​
  • Pierce
  • San Juan
  • Skagit
  • Snohomish
  • Spokane
  • Thurston
  • Walla Walla
  • Whatcom

Specific Guidance for Phase 2

Below you'll find specific guidance for the above counties:
  • Additional Guidance on Voluntary Contact Information – issued May 15
  • Construction – issued May 15
  • Curbside Library Services – issued June 2
  • Dine-in restaurants and taverns – issued May 11 (updated May 15)
  • Drive-in Theaters – issued June 2
  • Domestic Services – issued June 9
  • Fitness – issued May 19 (Updated June 5)
  • Higher Education – issued June 1
  • In-store retail - issued May 12
  • Manufacturing operations - issued May 12
  • Outdoor Recreation – issued May 14 (updated June 9)
  • Outdoor Recreation- Golf – issued May 15 (updated June 9)
  • Personal Services (including Cosmetologists, Hairstylists, Barbers, Estheticians, Master Estheticians, Manicurists, Nail Salon Workers, Electrologists, Permanent Makeup Artists, Tattoo Artists, Cosmetology Schools and Esthetics Schools) - issued May 13
  • Pet Grooming – issued May 18
  • Professional Photography – issued May 15
  • Professional Services - issued May 13
  • Real Estate – issued May 19
  • Religious and Faith Organizations – issued May 27
  • Sporting Activities – issued June 5

Counties in Phase 3

The below counties are currently in Phase 3:
  • Asotin
  • Columbia
  • Ferry
  • Garfield
  • Lincoln
  • Pend Oreille
  • Skamania
  • Stevens
  • Wahkiakum
  • Whitman

Specific Guidance for Phase 3

Below you'll find specific guidance for the above counties:

​
  • Template for Phase 3 Businesses - Issued June 5
  • Sporting Activities – issued June 5

New COVID-19 Proclamations

Phased Reopening of School
2 Comments

New Guidance Provides Hopeful Outlook for Next School Year

6/12/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture

New Guidance Provides Hopeful Outlook for Next School Year

The guidance provides schools with the health and safety guidelines needed to begin planning for a safe fall return.

Picture
OLYMPIA—June 11, 2020
​

”Nothing we have been through these past three months was in the training manual,” begins the letter from Superintendent Chris Reykdal in new guidance on reopening schools in the fall.

“This guidance is grounded in my belief that the most equitable opportunity for educational success relies upon the comprehensive supports for students provided in our schools with our professionals and the systems of supports we have built,” he later states.

Today (June 11th) , the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) released guidance that lays a framework for schools to begin planning what their return to school in the fall looks like.
​The guidance was developed in partnership with the state Department of Health (DOH); the Governor’s Office; the Department of Labor and Industries; and a broad stakeholder group of more than 120 educators, practitioners, parents, community-based organizations, legislators, and students.

“Learning is a social activity, and we want to see our students back in the classroom,” Reykdal said. “Protecting the health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority. If schools can meet the guidelines laid out today by DOH, they will likely be able to open their doors in the fall for in-person instruction.”

While face-to-face learning is the goal, the guidance includes three concepts for school districts to consider adapting and building from should they be limited in face-to-face learning in the fall:
  • Split or rotating schedules with distance learning,
  • Phased-in opening with continuous learning, and
  • Continuous learning 2.0, a more effective remote learning system.

How a district reopens school will be decided in partnership with their students, staff, families, and their local health authority. While reopening is not tied to the Governor’s Safe Start Plan, districts in Phase 1 or Modified Phase 1 must receive approval to reopen from their local health authority.

“Today we are setting a path for moving forward with school activities in the summer and school reopening in the fall,” said Governor Jay Inslee. “We have been working closely with Superintendent Reykdal and his staff at OSPI, state Department of Health, the Department of Labor and Industries, and a wide range of stakeholders across the state to ensure the health of all students and educators,” he continued.

“We all want students back in educational settings, but we must continue to monitor health data carefully, and proceed with caution,” Gov. Inslee continued. “This virus is unpredictable and has upended our regular ways of doing everything. Therefore, if COVID cases spike or spread, we may need to reassess this plan. We cannot guarantee that school facilities will open in fall. But for now, this guidance provides a path that schools, educators, and families need to plan for the coming months and the fall. Kids need to be learning but they also need to be safe and healthy.” 

School districts that meet in person will be required to follow the Department of Health’s health and safety guidelines, including requirements around physical distancing, face coverings, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

“Schools are foundational to student, family, and community health and well-being,” said State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy. “DOH guidance provides health and safety measures to reduce the risk for spread of COVID-19 so that students have access to the critical physical, mental, and social health benefits school provides.”


More Information

  • Reopening Washington Schools 2020: District Planning Guide
  • Superintendent Reykdal June 11 Media Availability
0 Comments

From Exposure to Feeling Better

6/8/2020

0 Comments

 
The Washington State Department of Health wants to keep you as informed as possible about continuing developments surrounding COVID-19 as well as guidance and resources you can share. Let's go over what happens if you get exposed to COVID-19, from beginning to end. 

What if I get contacted by my health department? 

​

​We know these folks, they’re awesome.


​But they have bad news for you. Someone you know has been diagnosed with COVID-19. And that person believes they spent more than 15 minutes within six feet of you. That makes you a close contact, and it makes you potentially exposed to COVID-19. So what happens next?
Picture

Quarantine

If you have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you will be asked to quarantine. This means staying in your home for 14 days. If you have kids or other family members in your household, they can still leave the house, but if you get sick, they will have to stay home too! During this time, you are feeling just fine. Maybe worried. Maybe jealous because your family members can leave the house. You’ll be monitoring your health—taking your temperature every day. You’re probably getting a call every day or so from one of our friends at the health department to make sure you have everything you need. They will help you out if you need to get food, medication, or other supplies picked up without leaving your house.

Count down the days! After 14 days, if you have been healthy this whole time—no fever, no cough, no other symptoms associated with COVID-19--you can leave your house again!

But, if you do get sick, the health department will ask you to isolate yourself from other people as completely as possible.

Isolation 

Isolation is very important so you do not spread COVID-19 to anyone else. When you are in isolation, you are feeling sick. Your family members who live in your house with you are quarantined. They need to stay in the house but away from you! You will need to stay isolated for at least 10 days and until your fever has been gone for three days, and the rest of your symptoms are much better. You’ll continue to hear frequently from someone at the health department, who will help make sure you have everything you need so you do not need to leave the house.

Testing


​Once you get symptoms, the health department will also ask you to get tested for COVID-19. They will help you figure out the safest way to do that without putting others at risk. Anyone and everyone who has symptoms associated with COVID-19 needs to get tested. There should be no cost to you as a patient for testing, whether you have insurance or not. The state Insurance Commissioner is requiring insurers to waive co-pays and deductibles for COVID-19 testing.
Picture
Once you test positive for COVID-19, someone from the health department will ask you who you have been in close contact with during the time period when you could have been contagious (when you feel sick plus about 2-3 days before you started to feel sick). If you have been quarantined, this is most likely no one outside of your immediate household. If you have been in public, you will let the health department knows who has been within six feet of you for more than 15 minutes.

Get Tested in Pacific County 

Drive through testing for COVID-19 has been expanded to include anyone with one or more of the following symptoms in Pacific County:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Chills​
  • Shaking/Chills​
  • Sore Throat
  • New Loss of Taste or Smell​
  • Nausea
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Loss of Appetite 
  • Fatigue ​​
  • Headache​​
  • South Bend - Monday's from 1:00pm - 4:00pm & Wednesday's from 9:00am - 12:00pm
  • Long Beach - Tuesday's from 1:00pm - 4:00pm & Friday's from 9:00am - 12:00 pm​​
Get Screened For An Appointment

​Please call the Emergency Operations Center
​Monday - Friday , 8:00am - 4:00pm at: 

​360-875-9407 or 360-642-9407.  
Picture
Picture
Click image to enlarge
Picture
Click image to enlarge
Then the process starts all over again as the health department calls your close contacts and asks them to quarantine so they don’t spread COVID-19 to anyone else.

This strategy is a trusted public health approach that has been used here in Washington and all over the world for decades to stop the spread of contagious diseases like tuberculosis, measles, Ebola, SARS, and, now, COVID-19. Our experience with other contagious diseases tells us that, with your help, we can control COVID-19, and safely reopen our economy.

Practice Compassion

Has someone you know had to quarantine or isolate themselves because of an exposure to COVID-19? How can you help? Can you drop off a meal or send a text to check in on them?
Picture
0 Comments

Pacific County COVID-19 Survey #1 Results

6/3/2020

2 Comments

 

Survey Results - Presentation 

Download here 

Survey Results - Data

Download here

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture
Picture

Picture
Picture

Picture
Picture

Picture
Picture

Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture
Picture
2 Comments

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

6/3/2020

1 Comment

 

You have questions, we have answers. 
Please visit doh.wa.gov or pacificcountycovid19.com for more information 

Picture

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a new, or “novel” coronavirus that was not identified in humans before December 2019. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that usually cause mild respiratory illnesses such as the common cold. Some coronaviruses have caused more severe illness, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
Picture
Most people will recover on their own, but some people can develop more serious complications, such as pneumonia, and require medical care or hospitalization. Older people and people with chronic illnesses are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19.

How does the Coronavirus spread? 

It is most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
​
  • In the air by coughing and sneezing,
  • Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands,
  • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands,
  • Rarely, fecal contamination with coronavirus present.​

People are thought to be most contagious when they are the sickest, though some spread is possible before people show symptoms.
Picture

What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms? 

  • What to do if you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19
  • What to do if you were potentially exposed to someone with confirmed COVID-19?
  • What do if you have symptoms of COVID-19?
  • Ten ways to manage respiratory symptoms at home. 

How can I get tested? 

Pacific County Health and Human Services is offering drive through testing for anyone with one or more of the following symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Chills
  • Shaking/Chills
  • Headache
  • Sore Throat
  • New Loss of Taste or Smell
  • Nausea
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Fatigue 
Testing is offered on both ends of the county by appointment only. To get screened for an appointment, please call the Emergency Operations Center Monday - Friday , 8:00am - 4:00pm at 360-875-9407 or 360-642-9407
South Bend - Monday's from 1:00pm - 4:00pm & Wednesday's from 9:00am - 12:00pm
​

Long Beach - Tuesday's from 1:00pm - 4:00pm & Friday's from 9:00am - 12:00 pm ​
Picture

How can I protect myself and others? 

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting and spreading coronavirus:
​
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water aren't available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces.
  • Stay home if you are sick. Stay home as much as possible. Follow Governor Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order.
  • Stay six feet away from others.
  • Follow recommendations from your local health department.
Picture
1 Comment
    Click here for weekly data updates
    ​click here for Archived news, press releases and other  updates

    Archives

    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020

  • HOME
  • Resources
    • Housing & Utilities >
      • Rent Assistance
    • Finances/Unemployment/Business Owners
    • Food
    • Childcare / Parenting
    • Teen Center
    • Senior Services
    • Neighbors Helping Neighbors
    • Veterans Services
    • Behavioral Health & Health Resources
    • Developmental Disabilities / Special Health Care Needs
  • Get Tested
  • Blog
  • Get Vaccinated
  • Data
  • If you have COVID-19
  • COVID Treatments
  • At Home Testing
  • Report At Home Test
  • Other Prevalent Health Concerns