Increase in COVID-19 Cases in Snohomish County
In the updated COVID case rate released Monday, May 2, Snohomish County has moved from low risk to medium risk under the COVID-19 Community Levels outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In light of the increase in cases and COVID-related hospitalizations over the last few weeks, our Health Officer on Tuesday encouraged people in Snohomish County to return to heightened levels of caution around COVID. This includes urging people to voluntarily wear masks in most indoor public spaces or crowded outdoor settings. We want to be clear that the Snohomish Health District is not changing guidance or issuing any new requirements for child care facilities. We continue to align with and defer to statewide guidance from the Washington State Department of Health.
There may be some increased interest in masking from parents, staff or children. It’s important to remember that if children or staff choose to wear masks, they should be supported in doing so, even when masks are not required.
Any child care facility is also free to be more directive in this manner than the state requirements call for. As child care leaders, you may make decisions on a case-by-case basis to increase use of masks for specific settings or situations, such as if there is an outbreak impacting a classroom.
Other considerations to help decrease spread of COVID include: modifying events to move them outside or increase ventilation with open windows and good airflow; directing anyone who is ill to stay home and get tested; and getting up-to-date on COVID vaccinations, including a booster dose and, for those age 50 or older or who are moderately to severely immunocompromised, a second booster.
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If you have any questions, please contact the Child Care Health Outreach program. You can reach us at 425-252-5415 or by email at childcarehealth@snohd.org. Report cases of COVID-19 to our main call center at 425-339-5278.
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