COVID-19 BULLETIN
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
Contact:
Public Information Desk
doh-pio@doh.wa.gov
Recap of Recent COVID-19 News and Updates
Statewide Response Updates
Newest numbers. The Department of Health (DOH) reported a total of 307,867 confirmed cases as of 11:59 p.m. on February 8. There have been 4,558 COVID-19 deaths in Washington.
For the most recent tally of cases by county, demographics, and more, visit the Department of Health's dashboard and the state’s COVID-19 risk assessment dashboard.
Tuesday, February 9, 2021, data note: Total case counts may include up to 1,100 duplicates. Negative test results data from November 21-30, 2020, are incomplete. Thus, negative test results and percent positivity (Testing tab) for that period, and case counts should be interpreted with caution. Otherwise, the incomplete time frames presented in the dashboard are correct and up to date. The Epidemiologic Curves tab is the most accurate representation of COVID-19 activity and is updated daily as new cases are identified and duplicates are resolved.
The higher number of new deaths is due to a data processing backlog cleared today from February 8, 2021.
More than 25,000 get COVID-19 vaccine at state's mass vaccination sites. Vaccination numbers continue to steadily increase at the state's mass vaccination sites. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) announced registration opening for week three. Read the full news release here.
COVID-19 variants: Last month, evidence of a potentially fast-spreading strain of the coronavirus was found in Washington state. This variant, known as B.1.1.7 or SARS-CoV-2 VOC 202012/01, is estimated to have first emerged in the United Kingdom during September 2020. Read more details here.
A reminder for all COVID-19 vaccine providers: Gloves are not recommended for most vaccination administration and are not required for the COVID-19 vaccine under most situations. Please see the Glove and Other PPE Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccine Administration from the Department of Health for more information. Additionally, updated guidance is now available in Prioritization Guidelines for Allocation of Personal Protective Equipment when Supplies are Severely Limited.
Department of Health COVID-19 long-term care report: As of February 8, 2021, a total of 17,767 COVID-19 cases and 2,259 deaths have been identified as associated or likely associated with a long-term care facility (i.e., nursing home, assisted living facility, or adult family home). These cases include residents as well as employees and visitors. Read the full report here.
Supporting Young Adults in College through COVID-19: A Guide for Parents, Educators, Mentors, and Counselors. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 years face many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They may not have entered the workforce, finished school or college, be in a relationship with a significant other, or started a family. Use this guide to help ensure their well-being during this challenging time, available in these versions:
The monthly Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Associated with COVID-19 in Washington State report is available. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a condition that causes inflammation in different body parts, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. Read the full report here.
Inslee signs bipartisan bill to support business and workers. This week, Gov. Jay Inslee signed legislation providing relief for businesses and workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. SB 5061 will increase minimum unemployment benefits for workers and provide significant tax relief for businesses over the next five years. Read the full news release here.
Resources
Latest COVID-19 reopening guidance for businesses and workers. A full list of current reopening guidance is available here.
Find a COVID-19 testing location near you. To make it easier to find a test near you, the Department of Health has created a webpage to help people find COVID-19 testing locations throughout the state.
Guidance and resources for employers and business owners. Sign up for the weekly business and worker newsletter here.
The State COVID-19 Assistance Hotline is a general information line related to COVID-19. If you need information or have a general question, call 1-800-525-0127, then press # or text 211-211 for help. You can also text the word “Coronavirus” to 211-211 to receive information and updates on your phone wherever you are. You will receive links to the latest information on COVID-19, including county-level updates, and resources for families, businesses, students, and more.
Washington Listens helps people manage stress and anxiety they may be experiencing because of COVID-19. If you or anyone you know is having difficulties managing stress, call the Washington Listens support line at 1-833-681-0211. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. TTY and language access services are available by using 7-1-1 or their preferred method. Resources and self-help tips are available on walistens.org.
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