Walla Walla County experiences uptick in COVID-19 cases

WALLA WALLA—Walla Walla County has seen a drastic uptick in COVID-19 cases, with more than 300 cases being reported over the past two weeks. On Sunday, November 1, sixty positive cases were reported, which has been the largest daily case count for the county since the beginning of the pandemic.

Health officials say they are seeing evidence of increased transmission at social and religious gatherings, long term care facilities, and institutions. Smaller outbreaks are occurring at some businesses, with the larger outbreaks at institutions and long-term care facilities. Walla Walla County Department of Community Health does not disclose the names of businesses with infected employees to the public unless the situation becomes a threat to public health.

Currently, health officials and disease investigation teams still trace cases and find linked exposures using contact tracing. The contact tracing and disease investigation team, alongside their partners at Providence St. Mary’s Population Health, worked through the weekend to contact individuals who have tested positive and identify individuals who had been in close contact with the infected persons, while assisting each infected person with isolation. The team will remain in contact with infected individuals during the entire isolation period, offering assistance and monitoring for symptoms that may indicate a more severe case or the need for additional resources. The contact tracing team also contacted those determined to be in close contact with the infected individuals during the infectious period to warn them of possible exposure and help them quarantine.

The team is working with businesses who have had employees test positive for the coronavirus, answering questions and assisting with mitigation recommendations to protect the rest of their employees and customers. Employers are encouraged to support workers who need to isolate or quarantine. Employees who show mild signs should be asked to stay home and work remotely if possible and to contact their healthcare provider about getting tested.

The department’s clinical team, Public Health Officer, and local healthcare providers are working closely with institutions and long-term care facilities to provide recommendations for outbreak control.

Walla Walla County Department of Community Health Public Health Officer Dr. Larry Jecha is asking each person to take personal responsibility to not let their guard down and continue wearing a face mask and social distancing at social, family, and religious gatherings, and at places of employment.

As of Tuesday, November 3, there are 293 active COVID-19 cases, with 13 cases hospitalized. One new death was reported on Monday, November 2, bringing the total death count to seven. To keep up with COVID-19 data, resources, and more, visit http://www.covidwwc.com.