Many parts of the United States, including Washington State, are experiencing outbreaks of COVID-19. This has disrupted normal life significantly. The state has taken action to prevent the spread of coronavirus through a stay-at-home order. Thankfully, Pacific County, Washington has done relatively well in terms of confirmed COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. As life slowly returns to normal, we take a look at how Pacific County is a safe place and we will hopefully be back to normal life soon.
COVID-19 Statistics in Washington State
As of June 7, 2020, approximately 400,000 individuals have been tested for the novel coronavirus in Washington State, of which 94 percent tested negative and 6 percent tested positive.
Washington State counties that are worst affected by coronavirus are King County with roughly 8,400 confirmed cases, Yakima County with 4,500 confirmed cases, Snohomish County with 3,000 confirmed cases, and Pierce County with 2,000 confirmed cases on June 7, 2020. In comparison, Pacific County has 9 confirmed cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death.
COVID-19 has affected young people in Washington State to a large degree. Two-thirds of all confirmed cases are between 20 and 59 years old. However, nearly 40 percent of hospitalizations are in the 60-79 age group and 22 percent in the 80+ age group. Cases and hospitalizations are evenly divided between males and females. Hispanics (41 percent) and non-Hispanic Whites (38 percent) are the most affected ethnicities. About 70 percent of all deaths in Washington State from COVID-19 have been in non-Hispanic Whites.
Coronavirus Testing in Pacific County, WA
Drive-through COVID testing is available in Pacific County, WA on priority for high-risk groups. This includes symptomatic healthcare workers, including hospital maintenance and kitchen staff and home healthcare workers, symptomatic public safety workers like firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement, and symptomatic grocery and pharmacy workers. Any of these groups with potential COVID-19 symptoms of fever more than 100.4 degrees, dry cough, or shortness of breath can get tested. Appointments can be made by calling the Pacific County Emergency Operations Center at 360-642-9407 or 360-875-9407.
Businesses Re-Opening in Pacific County, WA
Luckily, Pacific County, WA remains a relatively safe place with low rates of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths from coronavirus. The government is beginning to roll out phase 2 of the re-opening. More non-essential businesses are now permitted to open. Also, Pacific County Commissioner Lisa Olsen has asked Governor Inslee for more control on the re-opening, stating that COVID-19 affects each county differently. The letter was signed by 19 other county boards.
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After a two-month closure, businesses are preparing to resume operations. Restaurants will be allowed to open with 50 percent capacity. Barbers, nail and hair salons will welcome clients again. State parks connected to beaches will be open for day use. Also, in phase two, the hospitality lodging ban will be partially lifted. Hotels, motels, RV parks, and campsites are re-opening with reduced capacity. The popular Cape Disappointment State Park has also reopened after a two-month COVID closure.
Staying Safe from COVID-19 in Pacific County, WA
Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting infected and spreading coronavirus.
Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze into a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash, and wash your hands.
Wear a washable cloth mask or face covering for your nose and mouth while in public places.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects.
Stay home if you are sick with flu-like symptoms.
Maintain social distancing by staying 6 feet away from other people.
Avoid all non-essential travel.
With these safety measures in place, Pacific County residents can hopefully go back to a normal life again.