In January 2020, the Washington State Department of Health announced the first case of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID 19) in Washington state.
While the immediate health risk from coronavirus is considered low, the risk of exposure is increasing for people who live in communities in Washington state with reported spread of COVID-19. Health care workers caring for patients with the virus and individuals who have had close contact with persons with coronavirus are at elevated risk of exposure.
While our knowledge of coronavirus is still rapidly evolving, there are certain things you can do to reduce your risk of acquiring and spreading the virus:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home and away from others if you are sick.
- Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
If you have questions about coronavirus, call the Department of Health coronavirus call center at 1-800-525-0127 and press #.
If you are an ALTSA client, long-term care provider or representative of a long-term care facility and have questions or concerns, you may email ALTSA_COVID19@dshs.wa.gov.