COVID-19 in Washington: What You Need to Know

The Basics

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. The virus was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Since then, it has spread to over 200 countries and territories, including the United States.

The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. More severe symptoms may include pneumonia, kidney failure, and death.

The Situation in Washington

As of March 10, 2020, there have been over 300 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington. The majority of these cases have been in King County, which includes the city of Seattle.

The Washington State Department of Health has declared a state of emergency in response to the outbreak. The state has also implemented a number of measures to slow the spread of the virus, including closing schools and businesses, and banning large gatherings.

What You Can Do

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from COVID-19, including:

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Staying home if you are sick.
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
• Getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

Additional Resources

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the following websites:

• Washington State Department of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• World Health Organization

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