March 27, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
Bonnie Obremski, Web & Digital Communications Specialist
bobremski@co.jefferson.wa.us
COVID-19 emergency reporting replaced with long-term recommendations
JEFFERSON COUNTY—Jefferson County Public Health’s COVID-19 weekly reports and the transmission risk dial are being replaced with state data and perennial safety recommendations beginning April 3, 2023.
Wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask in shared, indoor spaces continues to be an effective way to control the spread of respiratory viruses and protect those who are vulnerable to severe disease. Jefferson County Health Officer Dr. Allison Berry recommends mask-wearing when entering crowded, indoor settings or when feeling under the weather. That recommendation will stand even after the state rescinds its masking order for healthcare settings on Monday, April 3.
Jefferson County Public Health’s Communicable Disease Team will continue to post information about COVID-19 on their website, however that information will now come solely from the Washington State Department of Health. The state’s information will be embedded onto the county’s website here: https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/1429/COVID-19.
Residents may report their positive home tests results to the state directly via an online portal here: https://safercovid.org/mytest/index.html?lang=en. Jefferson County will be retiring its own online portal.
Residents should note case rates are just one way to gain some understanding of the virus’ presence in the county. Many residents who are infected may not report their test result. That said, available information does strongly indicate transmission risk remains moderate at this time. The best way to prevent severe disease is to keep up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations, including the updated bivalent booster. Schedule your booster dose with your preferred pharmacy or with Jefferson County Public Health. Call the clinic for more information at 360-385-9400.
###
Always Working for a Safer and Healthier Jefferson County