Updates for COVID-19 in Grant County, WA

Updates for COVID-19 in Grant County will be posted as information becomes available. For more resources and information on COVID-19 please click here.

2019 COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) in Grant County

Tables will be updated by 5:00pm daily.

Case Count	Last Updated: 4/27/2020 (5:00 pm)
Positive (includes deaths)	158
Deaths	3
Negative	1464
Probable	35
Currently Hospitalized	8
Estimated number of pending test results	111
Recovered	60

Sex (at birth)
Male	61
Female	97

Age Range in Years
0-18	11
19-40	64
41-60	54
61-80	28
80+	1

Community of Residence
Coulee City Area	0
Ephrata	14
Grand Coulee/Electric City	0
Mattawa Area	38
Moses Lake	32
Othello Rural (Grant County)	1
Quincy Area	53
Royal City	12
Soap Lake	4
Warden	4

Probable: Individuals that have COVID-19 symptoms and are a close contact of a confirmed case. Tests may be pending.

Recovered numbers are updated once a week.

April 26, 2020 – 4:30 pm

One (1) new case of confirmed COVID-19 was reported to Grant County Unified Command today, bringing the total number of cases in Grant County to 158. The new case is a resident of Quincy. Full demographics can be found on our webpage: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-

Un (1) nuevo caso de COVID-19 confirmado fue reportado hoy al Comando Unificado del Condado de Grant, lo que eleva el número total de casos en el Condado de Grant a 158. El nuevo caso es residentes de Quincy. Se pueden encontrar datos demográficos completos en nuestra página web: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county.

April 25, 2020 – 4:30 pm

Two (2) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Grant County Unified Command today, bringing the total number of cases in Grant County to 157. The new cases are residents of Mattawa and Quincy. Full demographics can be found on our webpage: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county.

Dos (2) nuevos casos de COVID-19 confirmados fueron reportados hoy al Comando Unificado del Condado de Grant, lo que eleva el número total de casos en el Condado de Grant a 157. Los nuevos casos son residentes de Mattawa y Quincy. Se pueden encontrar datos demográficos completos en nuestra página web: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county.

April 24, 2020 – 4:30pm

Third Grant County Resident Death from Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Grant County, WA – Unified Command was notified on April 24th that a male in his 50s from Mattawa passed away at home today due to complications from COVID-19. He was not employed prior to or during his illness. This death brings the total Grant County COVID-19-related deaths to three (3).

Our hearts are with his family and friends.  On behalf of Unified Command, our staff, Health Officer, and Board of Health, we are so sorry for your loss.
There were no new cases of confirmed COVID-19 reported to Unified Command today.

For detailed information on Grant County COVID-19 related statistics, visit www.granthealth.org.

Please continue practice all possible measures in order to avoid infection or spread of this disease including:

• Staying home except for essential trips for things like groceries or doctor appointments,
• Physical Distancing of 6 feet,
• Wearing mask when going into public, and
• Washing your hands when you get home.

April 23, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update 4/23/20
Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Grant County Unified Command today. The new cases are residents of Moses Lake, Quincy, and Royal City. Full demographics can be found on our webpage: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county.
This week we have seen fewer positive test results and you deserve the thanks. Thank you for doing your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19! Thank you for staying home when you’re sick! Thank you for wearing masks in public! Thank you for washing your hands! Thank you for only going out when you need to! These are the things helping to keep Grant County healthier.

Actualización COVID-19 del 4/23/20
Cuatro (4) nuevos casos de COVID-19 confirmados fueron reportados hoy al Comando Unificado del Condado de Grant. Los nuevos casos son residentes de Moses Lake, Quincy y Royal City. Se pueden encontrar datos demográficos completos en nuestra página web: http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county.
Esta semana hemos visto menos resultados positivos y usted merece las gracias. ¡Gracias por hacer su parte para evitar la propagación de COVID-19! ¡Gracias por quedarse en casa cuando está enferma! ¡Gracias por usar máscaras en público! ¡Gracias por lavarse las manos! ¡Gracias por solo salir cuando lo necesita! Estas son las cosas que ayudan a mantener el Condado de Grant más saludable.

April 22, 2020 – 5:00pm

Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Grant County Unified Command today. The new cases are residents of Ephrata, Mattawa, Moses Lake, and Quincy.  Full demographics can be found above.

We still don’t fully know what re-opening WA will look like, but we do know the current Stay Home Order is still in effect.  Just like you, we at GCHD are eager to return to our favorite stores and restaurants and get back to recreation activities like hiking and fishing.  It is important that everyone continues to stay home as much as possible and when you do go out for essential trips you take precautions like physical distancing, wearing a mask, and washing your hands. 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Cuatro (4) nuevos casos de COVID-19 confirmados fueron reportados hoy al Comando Unificado del Condado de Grant. Los nuevos casos son residentes de Ephrata, Mattawa, Moses Lake y Quincy. Se pueden encontrar datos demográficos completos arriba.

Mientras aún no sabemos completamente cómo se verá la reapertura de WA, sí sabemos que la orden actual de Quedarse en Casa todavía está vigente. Al igual que usted, en GCHD estamos ansiosos por regresar a nuestras tiendas y restaurantes favoritos y volver a actividades recreativas como excursiones y pesca. Es importante que todos continúen quedándose en casa tanto como sea posible y cuando salga a realizar viajes esenciales, tome precauciones como distanciarse físicamente, usar una máscara y lavarse las manos.

April 21, 2020 – 4:30pm

Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Grant County Unified Command today. The new cases are residents of Mattawa and Royal City. Full demographics can be found above.

Governor Jay Inlsee will be be speaking tonight at 5:00pm on Washington’s Recovery Plan. The announcement can be viewed here: https://www.tvw.org/watch/…

April 21, 2020 – 1:30pm

There is a lot of talk and questions about antibody testing for COVID-19. At this time, the Grant County Health Officer is not recommending antibody testing. Although 2 tests have been authorized under FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization process, they have not gone through a full FDA approval process. Antibody testing cannot be used for diagnosis of COVID-19 and may or may not tell you currently have the illness or that you had it in the past. The only way to know for sure if you have COVID-19 is through standard testing with a nasal swab.

April 20, 2020 – 5:00pm

No new cases of COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command today.

The coming months will bring slow, measured relaxation of our physical distancing interventions. Even with a slow, phased re-opening of the state, we are likely to see COVID-19 spike. We may open our doors, only to close them again in a matter of months. We will need to develop effective treatments for COVID-19 or a vaccine before we can stop dialing up and down the physical distancing interventions. Although it’s possible that treatments may be developed sooner, in the best case scenarios, we are still at least 12-18 months from a vaccine. Now is the time to start preparing what life will look like when businesses start to re-open.

April 19, 2020 – 4:30 pm

Two (2) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 was reported to Unified Command since our last update. Both cases are Moses Lake residents. There are now a total of 143 confirmed cases in Grant County. Full demographics can be found above. 

April 18, 2020 – 5:00pm

One (1) new case of confirmed COVID-19 was reported to Unified Command since our last update. The new case is a Moses Lake resident. There are now a total of 141 confirmed cases in Grant County. Full demographics can be found above. 

April 17, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update: 4/17/2020
Seven (7) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update. The new cases are residents of Ephrata, Mattawa, Moses Lake, and Quincy. Full demographics can be found on our website. http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county/. We are also reporting that 11 additional people have recovered from their illness since last week. People who have recovered are residents of Ephrata, Moses Lake, Royal City, and the Mattawa and Quincy areas.

The growth rate on the graph shows that cases of COVID-19 in Grant County are still being reported at a high rate and are not slowing. You can see the rapid growth of new cases over the last month. When cases start to slow down, the graph will start leveling off and look like a straight line across the top. Please continue to take precautions against COVID-19 like staying home except for essential trips, masking in public, and washing your hands.

April 16, 2020 – 5:00pm

Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update. The new cases are residents of Mattawa and Moses Lake. Full demographics can be found on our website. http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county/.

Social distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation. There are still lots of ways to safely connect during this time. We encourage you to check-in with family and friends. A phone call is always a good place to start and there are several video calling options available so you can see each other. You can also try old fashioned snail mail if you’re not feeling like talking or if you know people who don’t hear well.

April 15, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update: 4/15/2020
Seven (7) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update.  The new cases are residents of Mattawa, Royal City, and Moses Lake.  Full demographics can be found on our website. http://granthealth.org/updates-for-covid-19-in-grant-county/

This morning Unified Command launched a Safety Line.  The phones will be staffed from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.  People who are homebound and need essential services such as food or non-urgent medical needs met can call one of two numbers:
English 509-754-1323
Spanish 509-754-2019

April 14, 2020 – 5:00pm

A bit of good news today; only 1 new case of confirmed COVID-19 was reported to Unified Command since our last update.  We also had one case that was transferred to another county, so our number of positive cases stays at 122.  The new case is a resident of Moses Lake.

Now is not the time to stop staying home.  We still need to be diligent about protecting ourselves and others from COVID-19.  Feeling good? Great! This is the time to think about how you might protect people you know and love from COVID-19. If you wait to feel sick before taking actions to protect others, it might be too late. 

People who feel sick with COVID-19 symptoms like fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat or loss of taste and smell are at their most contagious. People with COVID-19 can spread the virus for 1-3 days before they get symptoms. During this time, they feel well, and if they are not taking precautions like social distancing and great hand washing, they can spread the virus to others.  Staying home is an act of compassion. We stay home to protect our communities and our loved ones.

April 13, 2020 – 5:00pm

Two (2) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update– One each from Moses Lake and Mattawa. Full demographics can be found above.

Many of us are doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, but our hard work to flatten the curve can be easily undone. It is critical that everyone keep social distancing, masking in public, and washing their hands now and in the weeks to come. Stay Home! Stay Healthy!

April 12, 2020 – 5:00pm

Six (6) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update– Two (2) cases from Mattawa, one (1) from Moses Lake and three (3) Quincy. That is 20 new cases since Friday.  Full demographics can be found above.

While we are encouraged to see our elderly population numbers remain low, we are concerned by the marked increase in residence age 19-40 and 41-60. Workplace health matters and safety polices will prevent the spread of COVID-19. Several of our cases are also being linked to family and friend gatherings that occurred over the last two weeks.

The sunshine makes us all feel a little happier. Thank goodness! We need it! #stayathome

April 11, 2020 – 5:00 pm

Five (5) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update–two cases from Mattawa, two from Moses Lake and one from Royal City. One previously reported case from Moses Lake was found to be a resident of another county and taken off our list, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 114. Full demographics can be found above.

We hope you are enjoying this holiday weekend safe at home with your immediate family. Staying home means saving lives.

April 10, 2020 – 5:00pm

Nine (9) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 110. Three (3) Quincy, two (2) Mattawa, two (2) Ephrata, one (1) Moses Lake and one (1) Soap Lake. Full demographics can be found above.

Today we updated the COVID-19 recovery number from 14 to 28. This number will be updated weekly.

It was a busy week and extremely busy Friday for the Grant County Health District investigators with nine (9) new cases being reported. While our team is busy working on each case, this week is also our national public health week. A week that we celebrate our amazing staff and public health partners. Thank you GCHD staff and Board for your personal sacrifice to flatten the curve and save lives in Grant County. “I owe you all a big cake and celebration when the dust settles,” Theresa Adkinson, GCHD Administrator.

April 9, 2020 – 5:00pm

Three (3) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 101. Full demographics can be found above.

Today the Grant County unified command shared a list of virtual Good Friday and Easter Sunday services being held across Grant County. A list can be found at https://bit.ly/3e2pdoG and in Spanish at https://www.facebook.com/GrantCoSheriff/posts/1552191118276521. Thank you very much to the clergy and congregations for helping us promote social distancing during this holiday weekend.

While COVID-19 in the Puget Sound area may be reaching its peak, here in Grant County we are likely few weeks out. Happy Easter. Happy Passover. May peace be with you and your loved ones over this holiday weekend.

April 8, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update 4/8/20
Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 98. Full demographics can be found above.

The WA Attorney General Bob Ferguson today launched a “See It, Snap It, Send It” Campaign encouraging Washingtonians to report price gouging.  Anyone who sees price gouging is encouraged to snap a photo or take a screenshot, and then include the image with the complaint they file at the Attorney General’s website here. For more information on filing complaints, visit www.atg.wa.gov/file-complaint.

April 6, 2020 – 3:00pm

Three (3) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 90. During our investigations, we discovered one of the cases previously reported is not a Grant County Resident. GCHD added “Recovered” to our data tables. Going forward, this information will be updated weekly. Full demographics can be found above.

The sudden change in our daily lives can take a toll on our mental health. Loss of routine, school closures, changes in employment, uncertain finances, loneliness – all of these things and more can cause anything from mild anxiety to despair and hopelessness. This page of resources gives you some place to reach out to when you need help: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/mental-health-and-well-being…

April 5, 2020 – 3:00pm

Eight (8) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to Unified Command since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 88. We are working on finding out how many of our cases have recovered from COVID-19 and will include that information in our update tomorrow.

Spring is here and getting outdoors is encouraged. While you are getting your fresh air, remember:
• Gatherings of any size are not allowed outdoors, just as they are not allowed indoors. This includes friends getting together to go hiking or have a backyard BBQ.
• Do outdoor activities only with people in your immediate household (not extended families).
• Find outdoor activities close by your home. Now is not the time to travel.
• If you encounter others, maintain a minimum of 6-feet distance. Remember social distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation. Nearly everyone appreciates a wave and a friendly smile.
• If you can, support your favorite local small business! Are you in a position to help a shuttered business this weekend by making an online purchase or ordering takeout?

April 4, 2020 – 4:00pm

Second Grant County Resident Death from Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Grant County, WA – This is a joint news release from the Grant County Emergency Operations Center and Confluence Health.

Unified Command was notified by Confluence Health on April 3rd that a male in his 60s from Moses Lake passed away on April 3rd due to complications from COVID-19. This death brings the total Grant County COVID-19-related deaths to 2.

Our hearts are with his family, friends, and Central Washington Hospital staff. On behalf of Unified Command, our staff, Health Officer, and Board of Health, we are so sorry for your loss.

In addition, three (3) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD, bringing the total in Grant County to 80.

Please continue practice all possible measures in order to avoid infection or spread of this disease.

April 4, 2020 – 9:00am

Cloth Face Masks & Gowns Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Batas y máscaras de tela Equipo de protección personal (EPP)

For more information please contact the Joint Information Center: gceocpio@grantcountywa.gov

 GRANT COUNTY, WA – All of us involved in the COVID-19 response know that protecting our health workers and first responders is vital for each and every one of us. That is why our limited supplies of commercial Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) have been reserved for them. But we want our residents to feel safe and help with slowing the spread of COVID-19 too. Your Health District is supportive of our wearing your homemade masks and face coverings when out in public.

It is important to note that public masking is not a substitution for social distancing and limiting your interactions with other households and co-workers. We want to reinforce the message that masks should not make us feel too safe, and reduce our attention to handwashing, surface cleaning, social distancing, and other critical measures. 

Until supplies of commercially made masks are available, members of the public who want masks should be using homemade ones. These can be just as effective at stopping infective droplets as surgical masks. (N95 masks are used by health care workers because they are protective for finer particles, but even in health care, these masks are not required most of the time.) Masks with three layers of cotton material will work. They can have elastic ear loops or ties that go around the back of the head. 

If you aren’t able to sew a mask, you can use something such as a cotton scarf or bandana folded into three layers that will cover your nose and mouth and tied behind your head. This will work, too. You probably won’t be able to purchase already manufactured masks at this time – they are going to health workers and first responders only during the shortage. But material to make masks is still available, in some cases from local stores but also on-line from Amazon and others. And, Youtube.com has lots of good videos about how to be creative with materials you have at home to create a face mask.

The Governor is asking Washington State manufacturing businesses to help in this effort, and the prospects are good that thousands of masks can be made available quickly. In the meantime, you will need to make or adapt your own face covering. 

But here’s a caution. Once you have worn one for a while – certainly after a day’s use – be careful when removing it not to touch its outside surface. That’s where the virus will be if the mask is actually helping. Wash those used masks in hot water and dry them on high heat – that will kill the virus. And if you have a collection of used masks, treat them as contaminated by carefully dropping them into a sealable plastic bag until you can carefully dump them into a washing machine. Then throw the bag in a garbage can. In health care, we know that taking off PPE carelessly is as risky as wearing it incorrectly, so use special care when you have finished with the mask. Of course, used gowns should be treated with the same caution as used masks.

 Sewing patterns for masks, and also for gowns which you might want to wear if taking care of a sick relative, can be found online:

• No sew mask from a bandana: https://www.facebook.com/100007964100586/posts/2611871869088258/?d=n
• https://www.deaconess.com/How-to-make-a-Face-Mask
• https://www.joann.com/make-to-give-response/
• http://www.fabricpatch.net/face-masks-for-covid-19-relief.htm
• https://media.rainpos.com/220/quick_hospital_gown_1.pdf

April 3, 2020 – 3:00pm

Two (2) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 77. We currently have eight (8) Grant County residents hospitalized. If you feel you are developing symptoms, please call your healthcare provider to be screened for testing.

As we transition into the weekend, please adhere to the Governor’s Orders, limit your time shopping and designate one person per household to do your shopping. Let’s all do our part and stay home and not mix households.

April 2, 2020 – 5:00pm

Two (2) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 75.

Today, GCHD staff have started their transition to move operations to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office under the unified command of GCHD and Grant County Sheriff.

GCHD and the Sheriff remain extremely concerned about the large number of people gathering in the retail stores that remain open. Please, designate one person to go shopping for the family get in and get out quickly.

Washington State Department of Health launched a data dashboard with state and local data based on our case investigations. Please keep in mind the Dept of Health data is not current as our web site. https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus

April 1, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update 4/1/20
Five (5) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 73. One of our previously reported cases turned out to not be a resident of Grant County, so that investigation was handed off to another local health jurisdiction. The new cases are from Moses Lake, Mattawa, the Quincy Area and Rural Othello. Those listed as “Rural Othello” have an Othello address that is located within Grant County.

COVID-19 isn’t a myth, but there are several myths and rumors out there about it. It’s the first of April, and we’re here with a COVID-19 myth-buster to help keep you from being an April Fool! Love myth-busters? The World Health Organization has one (https://www.who.int/…/novel-…/advice-for-public/myth-busters) and so does the Washington coronavirus page (https://coronavirus.wa.gov/spread-facts)!

March 31, 2020 – 5:00pm

Six (6) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 69. The new cases are from the Quincy area, Ephrata, Warden, and Moses Lake. Full demographics can be found above.

Today District Administrator, Theresa Adkinson, met with the Grant County Sheriff and City Police Chiefs about enforcement of Governor Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” Order. Everyone should be staying home except for essential needs.

March 30, 2020 – 5:00pm

Four (4) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 63. The new cases are from the Quincy area, Ephrata, and Warden. Full demographics can be found above.

Governor Jay Inslee announced guidance today for state and local enforcement on his recent “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order. The state has created an online form for reporting businesses potentially violating orders and is providing guidance to local law enforcement on enforcing bans on gatherings of individuals. Today’s order does not mean more stringent measures than the original order. For example, you can still go outside, and restaurants can still serve takeout. Essential businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals and banks will continue to stay open. More information can be found on the Governor’s media release.

March 29, 2020 – 5:20 pm

Nine (9) new cases of confirmed COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 59. The new cases are from the Quincy area, the Mattawa area, Royal City, Ephrata, Moses Lake and Warden.  

We have contacted over a thousand people during our investigations so far. This includes people who were either identified as close contacts to confirmed cases, people who were tested for COVID-19 and those who tested positive. Many of our cases have been linked to others, but many of them have not been linked, which means we don’t know how or where they were infected. This is why we are asking people to please do whatever you would do if you knew someone with COVID-19 was in the public places you are, because it is out there. Stay home and only send one person out for essential items, use a face cover when in public and wash hands immediately when you return. If you are still working in an essential business, maintain 6 feet from your coworkers, monitor yourself for symptoms and wash hands often.

Only together can we can flatten the curve.

March 28, 2020 – 5:00pm

COVID-19 Update 3/28/20
Six (6) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 50. The most recently confirmed cases are residents of Moses Lake, Quincy, and Soap Lake. Full demographics can be found above.

The people in Grant County that have tested for positive for coronavirus are just like anyone else. They’ve been to work, the grocery store, and places of worship. They’ve visited friend’s and family’s homes and the doctor’s office. The virus is around us wherever we go. People may not know they have the virus which makes it important that everyone stay home, except for essential needs.

STAY HOME! STAY HEALTHY!

March 27, 2020 – 5:00 pm

Five (5) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 44. Three of the newest cases are Quincy residents and the other two are Mattawa area residents.

GCHD staff worked with the Moses Lake School District today to identify and call close contacts of the staff member who was recently diagnosed with COVID-19.

Our investigations of other cases are ongoing as well and we will be working through the weekend.

Please stay home and stay healthy this weekend.

March 26, 2020 – 5:10 pm

Six (6) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 39. Two of the newest cases are Quincy residents, two are from Ephrata, and two are from Moses Lake. There was an additional patient hospitalized.

During our investigations with confirmed cases, we have noticed many patients started their illness with milder, less obvious symptoms of COVID-19 such as fatigue, muscle aches, stomach ache and headache. We are asking everyone to please pay attention to any symptoms that are out of the ordinary. Consider calling your healthcare provider for advice, and out of an abundance of caution, please stay home and avoid others. People can be contagious even with mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.

March 25, 2020 – 5:20 pm

Six (6) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD in the last 24 hours, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 33. Four of the newest cases are Quincy area residents, one is from Ephrata, and one is from Royal City. There are also 32 probable cases under investigation and numerous tests pending with results expected in the next few days.

Starting today, we have begun to count symptomatic contacts of confirmed cases as “probable” cases, which is why this there was a significant jump in this number today. For example, when a person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, if any of their household members become ill with COVID-19 symptoms, they are considered as “probable” cases. This will help us to better track cases when test results are not available, either because they are pending or if the patient was not tested.

At midnight tonight, the Governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order will go into effect and will last until midnight on April 6^th.

This is what Governor Inslee had to say in his speech on Tuesday about his new order:

“It’s time to hunker down in order to win this fight. So, tonight, I am issuing a “Stay Home” order to fight this virus. This is Washington’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order. This includes a ban on all gatherings, and closures of many businesses, unless those businesses are essential to the healthy functioning of our community, or are able to let employees work remotely from home.

It is still safe to go outside using social distancing of six feet, but only for essential purposes. The grocery stores, doctor’s offices and other essential businesses will remain open. This also does not prohibit people from merely going outside to enjoy a walk on a sunny spring day.

So life will go on, but for all of us in every part of Washington, with this in mind: Stay Home, Stay Healthy. The less time you spend out in public, the more lives we can save; the more time we can buy to fight the waves coming down on us now and in the immediate future.”

We here at GCHD appreciate all the support and cooperation from our Grant County Community. Together we can get through this.

March 24, 2020 – 5:00pm

Two (2) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 27. Both cases are Moses Lake residents.

We are asking for patience from healthcare providers, community members and community officials/staff regarding our communication of COVID-19 tests results. The test results are taking 3-10 days depending on which lab the provider submits to. By the time the results are received at GCHD any person who did not follow the orders to stay home may have exposed several additional people to the virus. We understand the public and providers are wanting more information given to them in a quick manner, but unfortunately, this is not always our experience either due to testing variables at labs and healthcare facilities.

The positive results we get now are a picture of what our communities looked like 3-10 days ago. There is still limited testing ability because COVID-19 is a global pandemic and all healthcare facilities need the same supplies. It is important to know that this virus is in all our communities. It is with us where we shop, play, and work which is why it is crucial everyone stays home! Only go out for essential needs like groceries or doctor visits. Even then, send as few people as possible. We need to stay home to stay healthy!

For more information and resources on COVID-19, please see our website: http://granthealth.org/2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov/

March 23, 2020 – 5:00pm

Two (2) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 25. Both new cases are Quincy residents. There are also five (5) probable cases under investigation and numerous tests pending in all communities in Grant County. 

COVID-19 is in Grant County and is not limited to specific communities, work sites, or people with positive test results.  Everyone should be staying home as much as possible and only going into public when necessary.  Staying home slows the spread of COVID-19.  We should stay home to flatten the curve.  We should stay home so our healthcare facilities can continue to serve those who are sick and conserve resources.  We should stay home for family, friends, and others we know who are elderly, immunocompromised or have other underlying health concerns like diabetes, heart disease or COPD.  Who can you stay home for today?

Today at 5:30 Governor Jay Inslee will be addressing the state.  You can view his address at: https://player.invintus.com/?clientID=9375922947&eventID=2020031185

Stay Home. Stay Healthy. Stay Happy.

March 23, 2020 – 4:00pm

To: All Businesses and Employers in Grant County
From: Grant County Health District
Subject: Health Officer Recommendations to Slow the Spread of COVID-19

COVID-19 is in Grant County and is not limited to specific communities, work sites, or people with positive test results. Companies need to take steps to limit the spread of infection, both within their business and in the communities they work.

If employees have been given quarantine or isolation order, they must be followed. Cooperation and compliance with a Health Officer directive is required in accordance with WAC 246-101-425 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=246-101-425). Non-compliance with the Health Officer’s directive may constitute a violation of state law RCW 70.05.120 and WAC 246-110-020 (http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-110-020).

The Grant County Health Officer is advising the following measures be implemented at all places of employment:
1) All employees should be screened for coronavirus symptoms each day and excluded if symptomatic.
a. Have a plan to screen employees or volunteers every day. CDC guidelines identify the key symptoms to watch for as fever, cough and shortness of breath. We have a symptom monitoring form that can be used on our website in both English and Spanish: http://granthealth.org/2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov/

2) Social distancing recommendations must be met (i.e., limit contact of people within 6 feet from each other for 10 minutes or longer).

a. Establishments should ask themselves: how close will people be and for how long? Ensure that your business is organized in such way to avoid close contact between people as much as possible, including at areas used for breaks or where employees may gather. Washington Department of Health advises that “being within 6 feet of a sick person with COVID-19 for about 10 minutes” constitutes close contact which could result in exposure.

b. Consider: If your store’s traffic meets the DOH criteria above, what can you do to mitigate that? Possibilities may include setting limits on the number of people you allow in your business, marking out 6 –foot intervals with tape on the ground for lines, or moving to an app (such as waitlist.me, skiplino or others) that allows customers to queue in their cars.

3) It is recommended that all employees wear nose and mouth coverings such as a bandana or sewn mask at all times within the workplace. It is inappropriate for the general public or workplaces to divert any healthcare supplies, including surgical masks or other PPEs for public use. It is therefore explicitly recommended that businesses and the public use nontraditional face covers or cloth masks instead

4) CDC guidelines identify the key symptoms to watch for as fever, cough and shortness of breath. Signage should discourage attendance for any person who has these systems. There is a sign available on our website that can be put on doors in both English and Spanish: http://granthealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Regional_DoorPoster_3.20.pdf

5) Proper hand hygiene and sanitation must be readily available to all employees, volunteers, and visitors. a. CDC recommends that people wash their hands often, and if soap and water is not readily available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. If handwashing is not available, provide easy access to hand sanitizer and hand sanitizer stations and request employees and customers to abide by personal hygiene recommendations.

6) Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces frequently and at least daily. a. Ensure a clean and sanitary environment. Have employees disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails. Cleaning and sanitizing guidance can be found on our website: http://granthealth.org/wpcontent/uploads/2020/03/COVID-19-Janatorial-Guidance.pdf

7) Older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions that are at increased risk of serious COVID-19 are encouraged not to attend, including employees. a. Employees in high risk groups could be separated from other employees when possible or given tasks that minimize their exposure to the general public. For groceries, banks, and other essential establishments, consider implementing dedicated times exclusively available for highly vulnerable populations to come to your business.

Grant County Health District thanks and commends all the businesses who have already implemented measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. We know these measures are disruptive and inconvenient, but we are confident if we continue to carry out public health interventions together we will slow the spread of COVID-19 and help protect members of our community during this unprecedented time We are all in this together! (some language adapted from Public Health Seattle-King County)

March 22, 2020 – 5:00 pm

Five (5) more confirmed cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD since our last update, bringing the total of Grant County cases to 23. Of the five new cases, two are Quincy area residents, two are from Mattawa and one is from Moses Lake. There are also three probable cases under investigation and numerous tests pending.

We are currently dedicating nearly 100% of our staff time responding to this outbreak and, as of yesterday, have temporarily switched to a seven days-a-week operation to enable us to continue this work through the weekends. We are working closely with healthcare providers, clinics and hospitals to ensure positive results, as well as any patients being tested, are reported to us immediately so we can start investigating cases as soon as possible.

We have received questions about our “shelter-in-place” advice for high risk groups. Shelter-in-place essentially means, please stay home. Do not go to the store, do not go to work and try to avoid contact with people outside your immediate household. It is recommended that everyone do these things as COVID-19 is spreading in our communities and exposures can occur any time you are out in public.

Stay Home. Stay Healthy. Stay Happy.

March 21, 2020 – 5:20 pm

Seven (7) more cases of COVID-19 were reported to GCHD in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of Grant County cases to 18. Five of the most recent cases are Quincy Residents. The other two are from Mattawa. Even though there has been significant spread in Quincy and Mattawa, there are pending tests from all communities and we should expect cases will be confirmed in other parts of the county.

If you have been identified as a close-contact to a confirmed or suspected case, or if you have been tested for COVID-19, you have probably received a call from us (or will be hearing from us soon). We have contacted hundreds of people connected to these 18 cases, as well as almost everyone who has been tested for COVID-19 from our county. We do this so that people who had close contact with suspected and confirmed cases can be told to “quarantine” at home for 14 days, to prevent potential spread of the virus, and monitor themselves for signs of illness. When someone does have signs of illness (symptoms) or if they are tested for tested for COVID-19 (regardless of symptoms), they are told to “isolate”. This means not only must they stay home, but they must also isolate themselves from other people in their household.

If you are told to quarantine or isolate, PLEASE follow these orders. We will not be able to contain, or control all spread of COVID-19 but we can reduce the spread and minimize the overall impact this pandemic has on our communities.

March 21, 2020 – 4:00pm

We are seeing a rise in cases of COVID-19 in our communities. Test kits are limited and not everyone who has COVID-19 will be tested. The virus is not limited to those who have positive results or symptoms. Yet people with the virus and no symptoms unknowingly pass the virus to others. At this time, you should use all precautions to protect yourself and others. There is community spread within Grant County and you may have contact with people who are ill every time you go out into public places such as the grocery or other stores and the doctor’s office. Do whatever you would do if you knew someone with COVID-19 was in the public places you are, because it is out there. Stay home as much as you can. If you do need to go out, stay 6 feet away from people when possible, wear a mask, and wash your hands as soon as you get home.

When we get a confirmed case of COVID-19, we are only releasing information about locations where close contact is likely to be such as school classrooms and job sites and even then, only directly with those groups. More casual contact like at grocery stores or other retail locations have a lower risk of prolonged exposure so we will not be releasing information about those locations.

Whether or not you are tested, the recommendation is the same: PLEASE STAY HOME!

March 21, 2020 – 2:00pm

Grant County residents who are at higher risk for severe illness with COVID-19 are being advised by our Health Officer to “shelter-in-place” at this time. This includes those 60 years old or older, and those with underlying health conditions (diabetes, heart disease, lung disease) or are otherwise immunocompromised. There are increasing numbers of positive COVID-19 cases linked to the communities of Quincy and Mattawa. The virus is likely spreading in other communities as well. All other residents should be practicing strict social distancing (at least 6’ separation). Stay home as much as possible and avoid contact with people outside your immediate household. For more information about sheltering-in-place for high risk groups, go to our website: http://granthealth.org/2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov/

March 20, 2020 – 5:20 pm

There were three (3) new confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported today, bringing the total to 11 cases in our county. Two are residents of Quincy, one male and one female, and the other patient is a male Moses Lake resident. One of the Quincy patients is a close contact of a previously reported case. We now have confirmed cases in four Grant County Communities with the addition of the patient from Moses Lake.

We expect the virus is present throughout our county and are urging residents to protect themselves and their families by limiting their public exposure and exposure to anyone outside of their immediate family.

In addition to staying at least 6 ft away from others, if you must go out in public, it is now appropriate and recommended to cover your mouth and nose with some type of face mask. COVID-19 is primarily transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets produced from coughing, sneezing and even talking. Homemade fabric masks, bandannas and handkerchiefs are acceptable, and can protect you from exposure to respiratory droplets. Medical grade masks should be saved for front line healthcare workers, as supplies are critically low. If you or someone you know can sew, there are several online tutorial videos and instructions on how to make a face mask out of fabric. Samaritan Healthcare posted information about this on their Facebook page earlier today.

People at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are advised to shelter-in-place. This includes the elderly and all those with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes.

What does “shelter-in-place” mean:

• Stay home and out of public places (e.g., retail stores, post offices, parks, offices), workplaces, places of worship, and local public conveyances (e.g., buses, taxis, ride-shares).
• Limit your visitors to only those who are essential. Maintain 6 ft from each other if possible and do not allow any sick visitors. Do not go to other people’s homes.
• Ask for assistance from friends and family. Try to find others who can run necessary errands and go shopping for essential items for you.
• If you must go out in public, cover your face and nose with a mask or other covering. Homemade or sewn cloth masks, bandannas or handkerchiefs, are acceptable to use during this time. We are requesting that surgical and other medical/construction-grade masks be saved for front-line healthcare workers. You should not go out except for seeking medical care.
• You can and should go outdoors, if you can do it safely. Activities such as walking, hiking and biking are encouraged. Avoid common areas. If you encounter someone while outdoors, stay at least 6 ft away and keep your interaction brief.

Keep a close watch on your health during this time:

• Monitor yourself for signs of illness and write down any symptoms you may be having. Record your temperature. Some medications can lower your body temperature, including aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), Tylenol® (acetaminophen), Motrin® or Advil® (ibuprofen), Aleve® (naproxen). If you are taking one of these medications, please take your temperature before your next dose of medication. Write down your temperature.
• If you do feel sick, call your regular healthcare provider first.  DO NOT GO to a clinic or hospital without first calling ahead.  Calling first will help the clinic or hospital prepare to greet you and take care of you in the safest possible way. It may be recommended that you stay home and monitor your symptoms.
• Seek prompt medical attention if your symptoms are worsening (e.g., shortness of breath or difficulty breathing). Before seeking care, call your healthcare provider. Put on a face mask that covers your nose and mouth before you enter any facility or emergency vehicle. After you put on the face mask, clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

We understand these measures may feel a little extreme, and can be inconvenient, uncomfortable and isolating, but they are only temporary. Taking these actions and making these sacrifices is necessary to protect vulnerable citizens from severe illness and prevent our healthcare system from being overwhelmed.

Finally, GCHD sent a message to healthcare providers today to encourage more social distancing inside healthcare facility waiting rooms and to endorse use of non-traditional face masks. This information can be found in the provider alert section on our website.

March 19, 2020 – 5:20 pm

There was one new confirmed case reported today, bringing the total to 8 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Grant County. The newest patient, a female Ephrata resident, has not experienced severe illness and is in home isolation. There is an additional probable case under investigation as well. There are now three Grant County communities with confirmed cases of COVID-19. At this point, we should assume it is present throughout the county and state.

We are aware that the table of case numbers on the DOH website listed an additional Grant County case yesterday. That was an error; our 8^th case did not get confirmed until late last night. We still plan to update our table at 5 pm daily. We appreciate all those who are following closely our local updates, as well as statewide data.

Today, several local law enforcement agencies verbalized their support in enforcement of the Governor’s proclamation that required several businesses and all restaurant dining areas to close, as well as prohibiting gatherings of 50 or more people. These measures were put into place to help slow the spread of this virus in our communities to protect our vulnerable citizens and prevent our healthcare system from being overwhelmed. It takes everyone’s cooperation for this to work. Thank you to all those complying with these orders, as well as our local law enforcement agencies who are willing to help enforce this.

For retailers, churches and other places with gatherings of less than 50 people who have not been required to close during this time, you must implement safety measures to reduce the chance of the virus spreading in your facilities, in order to remain operational. To see the full list of these COVID-19 safety measures in English, Spanish and Ukrainian, click here.

No new cases of COVID-19 were reported today. However, there are now several pending tests and we expect additional cases to be confirmed in the coming days. We have contacted hundreds of potential close-contacts of our confirmed cases and have many people in quarantine. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation with these measures. Even those not in quarantine, should be now be limiting their public exposure and practicing social distancing when they must go in public.

Employers should be implementing safety measures within their facilities and with their employees to help reduce chances of transmission of the virus. Some things we have implemented here at GCHD are:

1. Closing our front office to reduce in-person interaction with the public
2. Daily staff symptom checks to make sure no one works while sick
3. Limiting in-person meetings to less than 10 people so we can maintain at least 6′ away from each other
4. Increased cleaning and sanitizing of frequently touched surfaces like door handles, sink handles, copy machine buttons, etc.
5. Vigilant handwashing when entering the building

For more information about what you can do at your workplace to protect your employees and coworkers from Coronavirus, go to the WA Department of Health website.