FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2020
CONTACTS:
Heather Thomas, 425.339.8688
Kent Patton, 425.338.3883
Joint Information Center (JIC), 425.388.5170
The First 100 Days of the Novel Coronavirus Response
SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. – It has now been 100 days since the first reported case of COVID-19 in the U.S. was confirmed here in Snohomish County. A lot has changed since January 20.
Across our community, residents and businesses have suffered from losing loved ones, illness, fear, and the economic impacts. This pandemic has closed our schools, companies large and small, and recreational activities. Milestones and gatherings for graduations, funerals, and weddings have been impacted as well.
Snohomish County has also seen its communities banding together. People are volunteering and donating to help those in need. Businesses are adapting operations to fill critical needs and to keep customers safe. Schools are adjusting to a new way of educating students and supporting families. The community is rallying around frontline employees and healthcare workers.
While there is much left to do, the people and partners in Snohomish County have still weathered quite a storm. The Snohomish Health District, Snohomish County and the Department of Emergency Management’s Joint Information Center have created a video recapping some of those events and achievements.
VIDEO: A look back at the response to COVID-19 in Snohomish County
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our partners and the community for their support, collaboration, and resolve,” said Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the Snohomish Health District. “Public health has asked a lot of you in the first 100 days. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and they are very much appreciated.”
“People from all across our community have suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “The public’s strong partnership and quick actions have been the key for driving down the curve in Snohomish County. We will continue to focus on saving lives, providing accurate information, and making decisions based on the best available science.”
“We found ourselves thrust into the spotlight in the early days of the pandemic, and I am proud of the work that the Snohomish Health District and Snohomish County have done in the months since then,” said Stephanie Wright, County Councilmember and Chair of the Board of Health. “The people of Snohomish County have proven once again just how strong and resilient our communities can be when we work together.”
The Snohomish Health District has also published a blog today. It looks back at the first 100 days and how guidance and messaging have evolved.
The health and safety of Snohomish County remains a top priority. The community is encouraged to help prevent the spread of illness and to support the response to this outbreak by staying informed and sharing reliable information. This is a very fluid situation and information will be updated at www.snohd.org/ncov2019 and the Health District’s social media channels.
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