Drive-through testing extended through Monday

Community-based drive-through testing has been extended through Monday, April 27, 2020

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 216 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15. Due to the increasing demand for testing, the drive-through testing site will remain open until Monday, April 27, 2020.

The testing site is able to operate due to the efforts of local emergency and incident management personnel and volunteers. Grays Harbor College is providing the location for us to host this essential service for the community.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and available to anyone 18 years or older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] or cough or shortness of breath). You do not need to be a Grays Harbor County resident to make an appointment.

Re-testing is also available to people who were tested prior to Sunday, April 19, due to a recall of testing supplies. According to the Washington State Department of Health, the recall does not affect the tests’ results and does not present a health risk to patients, but Grays Harbor Public Health is offering re-tests for patients’ peace of mind.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please do not hesitate to call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and get a test scheduled. There is currently an abundance of tests and appointments available. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center is open from 8:30am to 4:00pm. The call center will operate 7 days/week for the duration of the community-based drive-through testing site. Once the testing site closes, our call center will resume its Monday through Friday schedule. 

Everyone should stay home and stay healthy. If you have to leave your home for essential activities, wear a cloth face covering.

For questions about COVID-19 call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov or visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Recall on COVID-19 Testing Supplies

Community-Based Drive-Through tests have been recalled

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 164 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and is now available to anyone 18 years and older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] or cough or shortness of breath). Testing is available until Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at this site.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19’s call center is open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at (360) 964-1850 Monday through Friday. The call center is available to schedule testing for anyone who meets criteria and answer any questions you may have. Testing is being performed by appointment only.

If you are showing symptoms, please do not hesitate to call our call center and get a test scheduled. There is currently an abundance of tests available to Grays Harbor County. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Testing supplies recalled

It has come to the attention of Grays Harbor Public Health that testing supplies used at the community-based drive-through testing site prior to Sunday, April 19, 2020 have been recalled. According to the Washington State Department of Health, the recall does not affect the tests’ results and does not present a health risk to patients.

The recall was made because of concerns about a quality control issue with viral transport media, the fluid that preserves a specimen during transport, such as one collected via nasal swab from a person being tested for COVID-19.

Washington State Department of Health notified the Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team of the recall early on Sunday, April 19, 2020. Immediately, all testing supplies from the recalled batch were pulled from circulation at Grays Harbor’s testing site. Beginning Sunday, April 19, tests being performed at the community-based drive-through site are utilizing new testing supplies.

However, all 101 tests performed from Wednesday, April 15 through Saturday, April 18 at the drive-through testing site used testing supplies that are part of the recall. If you were tested with the recalled testing supplies, Grays Harbor Public Health is offering retests for peace of mind. We are confident that we have enough testing supplies to meet the demand even with retests occuring. If you are showing symptoms, please do not hesitate to call our call center and get a test scheduled.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19’s call center is open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at (360) 964-1850. The call center is available to schedule testing for anyone who meets criteria or requests a retest and to answer any questions you may have. Testing is being performed by appointment only.

Everyone should stay home and stay healthy. If you have to leave your home for essential activities, wear a cloth face covering.

For questions about COVID-19 call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM or visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Drive-Through Testing Open Until Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 124 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and is now available to anyone 18 years and older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] or cough or shortness of breath). Testing is available until Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at this site.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19’s call center is open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at (360) 964-1850 Monday through Friday. The call center is available to schedule testing for anyone who meets criteria and answer any questions you may have. Testing is being performed by appointment only.

If you are showing symptoms, please do not hesitate to call our call center and get a test scheduled. There is currently an abundance of tests available to Grays Harbor County. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Everyone should stay home and stay healthy. If you have to leave your home for essential activities, wear a cloth face covering.

For questions about COVID-19 call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM or visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Drive-Through Testing Open to Anyone 18+ Showing Symptoms

Community-Based Drive-Through testing site open through at least Tuesday

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 102 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15. 42 people have tested negative for COVID-19; 60 tests are pending.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and is now available to anyone 18 years and older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] or cough or shortness of breath). Testing is available 7 days a week.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19’s call center is open 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm at (360) 964-1850. The call center is available to schedule testing for anyone who meets criteria and answer any questions you may have. Testing is being performed by appointment only.

If you are showing symptoms, please do not hesitate to call our call center and get a test scheduled. There is currently an abundance of tests available to Grays Harbor County. Please take advantage of this opportunity.

Everyone should stay home and stay healthy. If you have to leave your home for essential activities, wear a cloth face covering.

For questions about COVID-19 call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM or visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Community-based drive-through testing site operating

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 79 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15. 22 people have tested negative for COVID-19; 57 tests are pending.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and is now available to anyone 18 years and older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] and cough and/or shortness of breath). “At this time, we are now able to open up the criteria for who can be tested at our community-based drive-through test site,” said Dr. John Bausher, Grays Harbor  County Health Officer. “We are grateful to the Washington State Public Health Lab for helping us secure the testing supplies we need to be able to test more people.”

Testing will continue daily as long as supplies permit. To make a testing appointment, call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850. The call center will be open over the weekend, from 8:30am to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Patients wait in their cars for drive-through COVID-19 testing.

What people should do

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850. A medical professional will talk to you about your testing options.

• Grays Harbor County residents should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

• Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others.

• This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures.

• This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

Where to get information

• Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

• The call center is currently staffed 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

• Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

• Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Grays Harbor Public Health works to improve the health and well-being of the people of Grays Harbor.

Visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Grays Harbor hospitals are still open for everyone

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• March 2020: 2 cases 

• April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Community-based drive-through testing site operating

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington National Guard have tested 45 people for COVID-19 since opening a community-based drive-through testing site in Aberdeen on April 15. Results from these tests are expected to be available in as soon as 2 days.

Testing at the community-based drive-through site is free and is now available to anyone 18 years and older who has symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] and cough and/or shortness of breath). “At this time, we are now able to open up the criteria for who can be tested at our community-based drive-through test site,” said Dr. John Bausher, Grays Harbor  County Health Officer. “We are grateful to the Washington State Public Health Lab for helping us secure the testing supplies we need to be able to test more people.”

Testing will continue daily as long as supplies permit. To make a testing appointment, call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850.

Hospitals still open for non-COVID-19 health issues

Grays Harbor Public Health, Grays Harbor Community Hospital, and Summit Pacific Medical Center want to remind all citizens of Grays Harbor that local hospitals are still open. Both hospitals in Grays Harbor County are taking precautions to reduce the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 in their facilities and encourage people who have illnesses not related to COVID-19 to seek medical attention.

“As an Emergency Department Provider, I have been overwhelmed by the community support and how this community has worked together to keep COVID-19 in check,” said Dr. Julie Buck, Grays Harbor County Emergency Medical Services Program Director, “But I am worried that some people who should be coming to see us might be staying away. I am anxious to get back to taking care of those who need us.”

Grays Harbor Community Hospital and Harbor Medical Group clinics encourage their patients to continue to seek care for chronic conditions, acute needs, well-child checks and immunizations during this pandemic.

“We have changed many processes to create a safe clinic environment for our patients to have a face-to-face visit with their provider.  We have also expanded services at our clinics to include telehealth, for patients that need to be seen, but are unable to come in for an appointment,” said Elizabeth Tschimperle, Executive Director of Harbor Medical Group.

To make an appointment, call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s contact center at 1-866-537-2778. You will be triaged by a nurse and scheduled an appointment.

Summit Pacific Medical Center and Clinics also remain open to provide essential and emergency care. 

“We are concerned that patients may be skipping important health care visits or forgoing care because they are worried about entering a medical facility during these times,” said Lauri Bolton, Summit Pacific Medical Center spokesperson. “Extra precautions are in place to ensure we maintain a safe patient care environment during the COVID-19 pandemic.  We have suspended non-essential activities and limited visitor access to promote social distancing, and many of our employees are now working from home. Employees working on-site must wear a face mask and complete a symptom and temperature check before each shift. All patients are asked to mask and a contained respiratory care unit is designated for the evaluation and treatment of suspected COVID-19 patients.” As an alternative to visiting in person, patients may request a Virtual Primary Care Visit.

For more information or to schedule a virtual primary care visit with Summit Pacific Medical Center, call 360-346-2222 or visit https://summitpacificmedicalcenter.org/request-a-virtual-visit/

Drive-through COVID-19 testing site now open in Aberdeen

Call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center to make an appointment

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington Army National Guard opened a drive-through COVID-19 testing site this morning in Aberdeen. At least twenty people will be tested for COVID-19 during the site’s first day of operation.

Testing is free and available to people who have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] and cough and/or shortness of breath) and meet the criteria for priority populations outlined in Grays Harbor County Health Order 2020-04.

The Health Order’s priority populations are broad and include all essential workers AND their household members.

The testing site will run daily as long as supplies permit.

To make an appointment for COVID-19 testing, call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19  call center at (360) 964-1850. The call center is open 7 days/week between 8:30am - 4pm.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 cases

·         April 2020: 10 cases

No additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified in Grays Harbor County since April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Grays Harbor Public Health is increasing the availability and accessibility of testing for essential workers in Grays Harbor County. Starting Wednesday, April 15, Grays Harbor Public Health, local public safety agencies, and the Washington Army and Air National Guard will be offering drive-through COVID-19 testing in Aberdeen.

Grays Harbor Public Health recognizes the importance of essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. “These workers are making it possible for our cities and county to continue to function during this crisis,” said Dr. John Bausher, Grays Harbor County Health Officer.

The list of essential workers is broad, and includes food service, grocery store, and farm workers. Public Health reminds everyone to respect social distancing guidelines when in stores and picking-up food.

“The people who are working to make sure we have access to food have the challenge of adapting to a new way of doing their jobs. We are supporting them, and other essential workers, by making sure they have access to testing. I want to thank all essential workers in Grays Harbor County - and encourage them to get tested if they have symptoms,” said Bausher.

Testing is available for people who:

·         Are experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and

·         Are 18 years or older and

o   Are currently working outside their home (essential workers) or

o   Are living with someone who is working outside their home or

o   Are pregnant or

o   Have an underlying health condition or

o   Are experiencing homelessness

If you meet the above criteria, you are highly encouraged to be tested. Testing is by-appointment only. To make an appointment, call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID -19 Call Center at (360) 964-1850. The call center is open 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM to schedule appointments and answer questions about COVID-19 in Grays Harbor County. Testing will run daily as supplies permit.

What people should do

• Grays Harbor County residents should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

• Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing and can schedule you an appointment at our drive-through testing site. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

  • The call center is available 7 days/week between 8:30am-4pm and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

  • Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

• Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org.

 About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grays Harbor Public Health works to improve the health and well-being of the people of Grays Harbor.

Visit our website at http://www.healthygh.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

●       March 2020: 2 cases

●       April 2020: 10 cases

One additional case of COVID-19 was diagnosed over the weekend on Sunday, April 12. Grays Harbor Public Health staff have reviewed the case and notified close contacts. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Starting Wednesday, April 15, 2020, Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington Army National guard will be operating a drive-through COVID-19 testing site. Testing is available for people who:

·         Are experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and

·         Are 18 years or older and

• Are currently working outside their home (essential workers) or living with someone who is currently working outside their home or

• Are living with someone who is working outside their home or

• Are pregnant or

• Have an underlying health condition or

• Are experiencing homelessness

People who are currently working outside their home are considered essential workers. If they or one of their household members are experiencing symptoms, they are eligible for testing.

Essential workers include:

·         Healthcare workers in clinics, long-term care, doctor offices, or hospitals

·         First responders

·         Grocery store workers

·         Food service workers

·         Farm/agriculture workers

·         Utility company workers

·         Transit workers

·         Public works workers

·         Communications workers

·         Workers performing mortuary services

Appointments for drive-through testing will need to be made through Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID -19 Call Center at (360) 964-1850. The call center is now open 7 days/week from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM to schedule testing appointments and answer questions about COVID-19 in Grays Harbor County. Testing will run daily as supplies permit.

What people should do

●       Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

●       Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

●       If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

●       Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

• The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

• Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

●       Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grays Harbor Public Health works to improve the health and well-being of the people of Grays Harbor.

Visit our website at http://www.healthyGH.org.  Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/healthyghc.

Grays Harbor Public Health will operate drive-through testing site

Grays Harbor Public Health and the Washington Army National Guard will operate a drive-through COVID-19 testing site starting Wednesday, April 15, 2020 and running daily as long as supplies permit.

With the support of the Washington State Public Health Lab, testing will be provided to people who:

1.    Have symptoms of COVID-19 (fever [subjective or measured] and cough and/or shortness of breath); AND

2.    Meet the criteria priority populations outlined in Grays Harbor County Health Order 2020-04.

The Health Order’s priority populations include people who are considered essential workers under Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order and their household members. A complete list of essential workers is available at https://coronavirus.wa.gov/whats-open-and-closed/essential-business. As more testing supplies become available, this Health Order may be expanded to encompass more people.

Appointments for drive-through testing will need to be made through Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 Call Center at (360) 964-1850. Appointment scheduling will begin Monday, April 13 at 8:30AM. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is also available to answer any questions you may have about COVID-19.

People who are tested at Grays Harbor Public Health’s drive-through testing site can expect to get test results within three to five days. This service is free to people who meet the testing criteria of Health Order 2020-04 and are symptomatic.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 11 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 Cases

·         April 2020: 9 Case

Three additional cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed on April 10. Public Health staff have reviewed the cases and notified close contacts. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

Today, Crystal Dingler, the Mayor of the City of Ocean Shores, joined Governor Jay Inslee in a press briefing. Mayor Dingler highlighted the need for people around the state to stay home.

Don’t let sunshine and holidays distract you: Now more than ever – stay home, stay healthy. Grays Harbor Public Health wants to continue to remind residents to adhere to the critical Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. As the weather is getting nicer, it is okay to go outside for exercise. However, maintaining social distancing of at least six feet apart is going to help keep you and others healthy.

With Easter and Passover this weekend, family is on many peoples’ minds. It is important for everyone’s health that observations remain within your current household. “Naturally, things will be different for each of us this Easter weekend, but it can still be a time where faith and family are at the forefront.” Said Sean Jamieson, Sr. Pastor of Grays Harbor Foursquare Church in Central Park. “I encourage you to commit to think creatively about how we can all make this a wonderful weekend to remember while continuing to stay home and stay healthy.”

What people should do

·         Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

·         Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

·         If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, body aches and/or chills; cough; difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

·  Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

o    The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

o    Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

·  Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grays Harbor Public Health works to improve the health and well-being of the people of Grays Harbor.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Essential workers who have symptoms of COVID-19 are eligible for testing

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 8 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 cases

·         April 2020: 6 cases

One additional case of COVID-19 was diagnosed on April 9. Public health staff are reviewing the case and notifying close contacts. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Response efforts

People who are considered essential workers under Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order and have symptoms of COVID-19 are eligible for testing according to Grays Harbor County Health Officer Dr. John Bausher.

Because Grays Harbor County hospitals have limited amounts of COVID-19 testing supplies on hand, Dr. Bausher issued Grays Harbor County Health Order No. 2020-03 on March 31, 2020, requiring local hospitals and healthcare providers to only test certain groups of people for COVID-19.

“Grays Harbor Public Health’s incident management team is still working to bring more testing supplies and options to our County. In the meantime, we want to make sure that we continue to test people in our current priority groups,” said Bausher. “This includes essential workers like food service workers, grocery store staff, agriculture workers, and more.”

If you are an essential worker and your work requires you to leave home and you have symptoms of COVID-19, you may be eligible for testing.

• A complete list of essential workers is available at https://coronavirus.wa.gov/whats-open-and-closed/essential-business

• Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, body aches and/or chills; cough; and difficulty breathing.

• If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing.

What people should do

• Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

• Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, body aches and/or chills; cough; difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

  • The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

  • Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

• Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Actualización de la respuesta ante COVID-19 de Salud Pública Grays Harbor

Trabajadores esenciales que tengan síntomas de COVID-19 son elegibles para pruebas.

Actualización de casos

El Condado de Grays Harbor tiene 8 casos confirmados de COVID-19.

·         Marzo, 2020: 2 casos

·         Abril, 2020: 6 casos

El 9 de abril, se diagnosticó un caso más de COVID-19. El personal de Salud Pública está revisando el caso y notificando a los contactos cercanos. El equipo de administración del incidente del departamento de Salud Pública de Grays Harbor está preparado para responder si se identifican casos adicionales.

Esfuerzos de respuesta

Los trabajadores considerados como esenciales, de conformidad con la orden del Gobernador Jan Inslee, “Quédese en Casa, Quédese Sano” y tienen síntomas de COVID-19 son elegibles para pruebas, esto de acuerdo con el Oficial de Salud del Condado Grays Harbor, Dr. John Bausher.

Los hospitales en el Condado Grays Harbor tienen a la mano cantidades limitadas de suministros para hacer pruebas COVID-19, por lo que el Dr. Bausher expidió la Orden de Salud del Condado Grays Harbor No. 2020-03, el 31 de marzo, 2020, requiriendo a los hospitales locales y a los proveedores de atención a la salud, el hacer pruebas solo a ciertas personas de la población, por el COVID-19.

“El equipo de administración del incidente del departamento Salud Pública de Grays Harbor está trabajando en traer más suministros para pruebas y opciones a nuestro condado. Mientras tanto, queremos asegurarnos de que continuamos haciendo pruebas a las personas en nuestros grupos que tienen actualmente prioridad”, dijo Bausher. “Esto incluye trabajadores esenciales como los de la industria de servicios alimenticios, el personal de tiendas de abastecimientos, los trabajadores agrícolas y otros más”.

Si usted es un trabajador esencial y su trabajo requiere que salga de casa y tiene síntomas de COVID-19, usted podría ser elegible para que le hagan una prueba.

• Encuentre una lista completa de trabajadores esenciales en https://coronavirus.wa.gov/whats-open-and-closed/trabajadores-esenciales-de-infraestructura-critica

• Los síntomas de COVID-19 incluyen fiebre, dolor de cuerpo y/o escalofríos; tos; y dificultades respiratorias.

• Si no tiene un proveedor regular de servicios de la salud, puede llamar al centro para llamadas en Salud Pública del Condado Grays Harbor COVID-19 al (360) 964-1850 y pida hablar un profesional médico que podrá evaluar si reúne o no el criterio para la prueba.

Lo que las personas deben hacer

• Las personas que residan en el condado Grays Harbor deben de hacer su parte en seguir la orden del Gobernador Jay Inslee, “Quédese en Casa, Quédese Sano”. Quédese en casa a menos que necesite ejercer una actividad esencial como comprar comestibles o ir a citas médicas.

• Cubrirse la cara con tela cuando vayan a estar en público. Por ejemplo, para ir a la tienda o para salir por cosas que necesite y no se puede mantener los 6 pies de distancia de otras personas. Esta recomendación no sustituye los lineamientos de mantenerse a una distancia de 6 pies de quienes no sean miembros de su hogar y lavado frecuente de las manos con agua y jabón o con un desinfectante de manos con base de alcohol. El cubrirse la cara con tela no previene la propagación del COVID-19, sin aplicar otras medidas protectoras. No es un mandato que usted se cubra la cara. Eso se considera una capa adicional de protección.

• Si tiene síntomas de COVID-19 (fiebre, dolores de cuerpo y/o escalofríos; tos, dificultades respiratorias), busque atención médica.
  
  Si tiene un proveedor regular de servicios de la salud, llame a su proveedor.
  
  Si no tiene un proveedor regular de servicios de la salud, puede llamar al centro para llamadas de Salud Pública del Condado Grays Harbor COVID-19, (360) 964-1850 y pida hablar con un profesional médico que podrá evaluar si reúne o no el criterio para la prueba. También, puede llamar a la clínica para pacientes con síntomas respiratorios del hospital Grays Harbor Community Hospital 1-866-537-2778 o a la línea de la “Unidad de Atención Respiratoria” de Summit Pacific Medical Center al 360-346-2222.

Dónde obtener información

El equipo de administración del incidente está trabajando para obtener información en cuanto esté disponible.

• Salud Pública de Grays Harbor ha establecido un centro de llamadas para contestar preguntas sobre COVID-19. Llame al (360) 964-1850 o covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov

  • El centro de llamadas tiene personal bilingüe (inglés y español) que atiende de lunes a viernes de las 8:30 a.m. a las 4:00 p.m.

  • Las personas que viven en el condado y tienen síntomas de COVID-19 (fiebre, tos, dificultades respiratorias), pueden también llamar al centro de llamadas para referidos a pruebas y atención médica.

• Información y recursos locales sobre COVID-19, los encuentra también, en español en nuestro sitio web http://www.healthygh.org/covid19espanol

Respuesta de Salud Pública del Condado de Grays Harbor frente al COVID-19

El 17 de marzo, 2020, Salud Pública de Grays Harbor activó un equipo de administración del incidente para coordinar la respuesta local frente a la pandemia COVID-19.

Bajo la dirección de un grupo de reglamentos que incluye a oficiales locales, médicos y expertos en respuesta a emergencias, así como el Oficial de Salud del Condado Grays Harbor, el equipo de administración del incidente está utilizando lo mejor en salud pública y ciencias médica para controlar y mitigar la pandemia COVID-19.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 7 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 cases

·         April 2020: 5 cases

Response efforts

• No new cases identified today, April 8. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team continues to provide ongoing monitoring of diagnosed cases and remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

• Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team continues to coordinate and collaborate with community partners to develop plans and processes focused on prevention, information, early identification, and mitigation.

• Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team is continuing to work to bring more testing supplies and testing options to Grays Harbor County.

What people should do

• Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

•  Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

  • The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

  • Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

• Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Resources available to help manage anxiety and depression

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 7 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 cases

·         April 2020: 5 cases

Response efforts

• One additional case of COVID-19 was identified on April 7. Public health staff have reviewed the case and notified all close contacts. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

Resources for managing anxiety and depression

Feelings of fear, anxiety or depression are common in times of uncertainty, including this current COVID-19 situation. Fear and anxiety about the disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions.

Grays Harbor Public Health is sharing tools and resources that help people cope with stress and support their mental wellbeing. By caring for yourself and others, you will help make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.

These resources are available to help support your mental health or that of a loved one:

• Care for Your Coronavirus Anxiety (virusanxiety.com)

• Free Online Therapy and Resources for Mental Health and Substance Problems (for people living in Grays Harbor County) (thrivegrays.org)

• How to Help Someone with Anxiety or Depression during COVID-19 (mentalhealthfirstaid.org)

• Resources to Support Mental Health and Coping with the Coronavirus (sprc.org)

If you feel so overwhelmed that you struggle to get through the day, call your health care provider, therapist, or mental health provider and set up a telemedicine appointment. And if you are in crisis, don’t hesitate to call the 24-Hour Crisis Line at 866-427-4747 or text HEAL to 741741 to get confidential text access to a trained crisis counselor any time of the day or night.

What people should do

• Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

• Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778 or Summit Pacific Medical Center’s Respiratory Care Unit nurse line at 360-346-2222.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Grays Harbor Public Health has set up a call center to answer questions about COVID-19. Call (360) 964-1850 or email covid19@co.graysharbor.wa.gov.

  • The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:00 PM and is bi-lingual (English and Spanish).

  • Residents who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) can also call the call center for testing and medical care referrals.

• Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

About Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 response

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 6 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 Cases

·         April 2020: 4 Case

Response efforts

 Recent accomplishments

Grays Harbor Public Health has completed disease investigations for the three recently identified cases. Personal information gathered during this process is legally protected and will not be disclosed by Grays Harbor Public Health.

Close contacts of the patients are being monitored for symptoms. If you were a known close contact of one of the patient’s, you would have been contacted by our disease investigators.

Cases are assigned to the county where the patient resides. One of the recently identified cases, while a Grays Harbor County resident, has not been in the County.

Current priorities

The Washington State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are now recommending that all residents wear cloth face coverings in public. However, people should not use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker, such as an N95 or surgical mask. These masks need to be reserved for healthcare workers who come into close contact with sick people all day. The rest of us do not need this level of protection.

 “N95 masks protect you,” said Dr. John Bausher, Grays Harbor County Health Officer. “Cloth masks help protect others. Please wear a cloth mask and remember to wash it often.”

 Some of us will get COVID-19 and not have any symptoms at all or might be contagious before we get symptoms. If you decide to wear a cloth face covering, you are doing it to protect others from a virus you do not know whether you might carry. Wearing a cloth face covering in public places is an act of compassion.

Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

 These masks can be constructed with common household fabrics and are fairly simple to make. Dr. Jerome Adams, the U.S. Surgeon General shows you how in his video How to make Your own Face Covering.

Background

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What people should do

• Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

•  If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778.

Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Residents can call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 for information about COVID-19. The number will be staffed from 8:30am- 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

 Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

Grays Harbor County has 6 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 Cases

·         April 2020: 4 Case

 Response efforts

Three additional cases of COVID-19 were identified on April 4. Public health staff are reviewing the cases and notifying close contacts. Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

 Current priorities

The best way to prevent spread of COVID-19 is washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, not touching your face, and staying at home as much as possible. Residents should continue to follow Governor Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order and only leave their home for essential activities.

Testing continues to be available for those that meet the criteria established by Dr. John Bausher, Grays Harbor County Health Officer. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing.

 A flyer with information about COVID-19 and our call center number is available for download and printing (see attachment). If your business or organization would like copies for posting, please email covid19@co.grays-harbor.wa.us.

 Background

On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What people should do

• Grays Harbor County resident should do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Stay home unless you need to pursue an essential activity like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.

• Residents should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities, and cannot maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others. This recommendation is not a substitute for existing guidance to maintain 6-feet of physical distance from non-household members and performing frequent hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent spread of COVID-19 without these other protective measures. This is not a mandate that you must wear a face covering. It is considered an additional layer of protection.

• If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention.

  • If you have a regular healthcare provider, call your provider.

  • If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing. You can also call Grays Harbor Community Hospital’s primary care clinic for patients with respiratory symptoms at 1-866-537-2778.

 Where to get information

The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

• Residents can call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 for information about COVID-19. The number will be staffed from 8:30am- 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

 Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

 One new case of COVID 19 has been identified in Grays Harbor County today.  Case investigation has reviewed the case and will continue to monitor.  Over the weekend, Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team (IMT) remains prepared to respond if any additional cases are identified.

 Grays Harbor County has 3 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         March 2020: 2 Cases

·         April 2020: 1 Case

 Response efforts

 Recent accomplishments

 The Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team made progress today on establishing a short-term isolation and quarantine facility.  Two sites have been identified to provide this resource within the community, other locations are also being considered for temporary housing as needed for healthcare workers and first responders.

The plan being developed in Grays Harbor will create a system that will allow for the rapid identification of individuals who need support to successfully isolate or quarantine.  In addition, it will provide for emergency housing options that will allow people to isolate or quarantine as needed.  The plan will also address issues such as transportation, cleaning, security, food, medical care, and other essential supports. 

People who need support to isolate or quarantine can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

 Current priorities

 Grays Harbor Public Health continues to work with local agencies to develop plans and processes focused on the objectives of prevention, information, early identification, and mitigation.

 Grays Harbor Public Health and Grays Harbor Emergency Management continue to work to bring more medical supplies to our county. This incudes testing supplies for both hospitals as well as personal protective equipment supplies for all healthcare workers and first responders throughout Grays Harbor County.

 Background

 On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What people should do

 Grays Harbor Public Health encourages every Grays Harbor County resident to do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) and have a regular healthcare provider, you should call your provider to ask about testing.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing ) and do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing.

Where to get information

 The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

 Residents can call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 for information about COVID-19. The number will be staffed from 8:30am- 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

 Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

 Grays Harbor County has 2 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         On March 11 Grays Harbor Public Health was notified that a Grays Harbor County resident had tested positive for COVID-19.

·         On March 30 Grays Harbor Public Health was notified that second Grays Harbor County resident had tested positive for COVID-19.

 Response efforts

 Recent accomplishments

 The Grays Harbor Public Health Incident Management Team is making progress on establishing a short-term isolation and quarantine facility. With support of Washington State Department of Commerce grant funds designed to work with local area hotel/motel industry, Public Health is developing a strategy to implement this type of facility for the community.  Funding from this grant is to address the COVID19 outbreak-related public health needs of people experiencing homelessness or otherwise in need of quarantine or isolation.

The plan being developed in Grays Harbor will create a system that will allow for the rapid identification of individuals who need support to successfully isolate or quarantine.  In addition it will provide for emergency housing options that will allow people to isolate or quarantine as needed.  The plan will also address issues such as transportation, cleaning, security, food, medical care, and other essential supports. 

People who need support to isolate or quarantine can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850.

 Current priorities

 Grays Harbor Public Health continues to work with local agencies to develop plans and processes focused on the objectives of prevention, information, early identification, and mitigation.

 Grays Harbor Public Health and Grays Harbor Emergency Management continue to work to bring more testing supplies to our county.

 Background

 On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What people should do

 Grays Harbor Public Health encourages every Grays Harbor County resident to do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) and have a regular healthcare provider, you should call your provider to ask about testing.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, difficulty breathing ) and do not have a regular health care provider, you can call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing.

The care for COVID-19 is the same as for other respiratory illnesses:

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Rest.

• Take pain and fever medications as needed.

There are no medications specifically approved for treating COVID-19.

The CDC and FDA are reminding people that chloroquine phosphate (used to treat disease in aquarium fish) are not intended for human consumption and can lead to serious health consequences, including death.

Medications like chloroquine phosphate and hydroxychloroquine sulfate should be taken only when prescribed by and under the supervision of your healthcare provider and always according to the instructions provided.

Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing any unexpected symptoms after taking chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine by contacting your healthcare provider or the poison center (1-800-222-1222).

 Where to get information

 The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

 Residents can call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 for information about COVID-19. The number will be staffed from 8:30am- 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

 Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 response update

Case updates

 Grays Harbor County has 2 confirmed case of COVID-19.

·         On March 11 Grays Harbor Public Health was notified that a Grays Harbor County resident had tested positive for COVID-19.

·         On March 30 Grays Harbor Public Health was notified that second Grays Harbor County resident had tested positive for COVID-19.

 Response efforts

 Recent accomplishments

 Grays Harbor County Health Officer, Dr. John Bausher, has issued a new health order that expands the criteria for COVID-19 testing. More information was released earlier this afternoon and is also available on our website at http://www.healthygh.org/in-the-news-1/2020/4/1/expanded-criteria-for-covid-19-testing.

 Current priorities

 Grays Harbor Public Health continues to work with local agencies to develop plans and processes focused on the objectives of prevention, information, early identification, and mitigation.

 Grays Harbor Public Health and Grays Harbor Emergency Management continue to work to bring more testing supplies to our county.

 Background

 On March 17, 2020 Grays Harbor Public Health activated an incident management team to coordinate the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Under the direction of a policy group that includes local officials, medical and emergency response experts, and the Grays Harbor County Health Officer, the incident management team is using the best public health and medical science to control and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

 What people should do

 Grays Harbor Public Health encourages every Grays Harbor County resident to do their part by following Governor Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order.

 If you think you have COVID-19 or were exposed to COVID-19, contact your regular doctor. Do not go to the emergency room unless you need immediate medical intervention. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs.

The care for COVID-19 is the same as for other respiratory illnesses:

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Rest.

• Take pain and fever medications as needed.

There are no medications specifically approved for treating COVID-19.

The CDC and FDA are reminding people that chloroquine phosphate (used to treat disease in aquarium fish) are not intended for human  consumption and can lead to serious health consequences, including death.

Medications like chloroquine phosphate and hydroxychloroquine sulfate should be taken only when prescribed by and under the supervision of your healthcare provider and always according to the instructions provided.

Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing any unexpected symptoms after taking chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine by contacting your healthcare provider or the poison center (1-800-222-1222).

 Where to get information

 The incident management team will be working to get information out as it becomes available.

 Residents can call the Grays Harbor Public Health COVID-19 call center at (360) 964-1850 for information about COVID-19. The number will be staffed from 8:30am- 4:00pm Monday through Friday.

 Local information and resources related to COVID-19 are also available on our website at www.healthygh.org/covid19.

Expanded criteria for COVID-19 testing

Updated health order issued to local providers

 On Tuesday, March 31, 2020, Grays Harbor County Health Officer, Dr. John Bausher, updated the Health Order defining the criteria for testing priorities of COIVD-19 within Grays Harbor County. The updated Health Order expands testing to the following groups:

·         People over the age of 60 with underlying medical conditions.

·         People with compromised immune systems.

·         Pregnant people.

·         People experiencing homelessness.

Testing criteria were able to be expanded because more testing supplies have become available in our County. Although the outcome of a COVID-19 test does not change the patient’s treatment plan, testing does give the patient information to keep themselves and their close contacts safe. The additional testing also gives Grays Harbor Public Health information to better track the disease.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. People who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 are encouraged to seek medical attention.

If you have a regular healthcare provider, you should call your provider to ask about testing. If you do not have a regular health care provider, you can now call Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center and speak with a medical professional who can assess whether or not you meet criteria for testing.

Grays Harbor Public Health’s COVID-19 call center is here to help residents of Grays Harbor get answers to questions about COVID-19. The bi-lingual call center is staffed 8:30am – 4:00pm Monday through Friday at (360) 964-1850. Residents can also email their questions to covid19@co.grays-harbor.wa.us. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please still call 9-1-1.

Grays Harbor Public Health and Grays Harbor Emergency Management are continuing to work to bring more testing supplies to our County. Testing availability will continue to be influenced by the supply levels. Public Health is working closely with Grays Harbor Community Hospital to provide a patient-friendly testing experience.