It’s Vital We Rein in the Increasing Spread of COVID-19
On Sunday, state health officials reported that there are concerns about the spike of COVID-19 in Washington State. In Kitsap County, the numbers have significantly increased this month and cases are appearing in multiple places, including healthcare settings, workplaces, sports activities, and more.
The rising amount of cases in our community is alarming. The caseloads are reaching new records. Entering Thanksgiving and this holiday season, it’s vital we rein in the increasing spread of COVID-19 infections. It’s important that residents wear masks, socially distance, and follow recent state health and safety restrictions that limit social gatherings from outside a household unless they meet quarantine or testing guidance. (Healthcare guidance for social gatherings: https://bit.ly/32WrnSN)
I recognize this is difficult and frustrating with Thanksgiving just around the corner. However, I believe in my heart it’s the right thing if it will protect our friends, neighbors and loved ones and save our healthcare system from being overwhelmed with a flood of COVID-19 patients if the virus remains unchecked. To slow the trajectory, I urge our residents to follow health guidelines and celebrate Thanksgiving and the upcoming holidays this year with low risk activities or only participate with those living in their own home.
Individual action is key to bringing case levels back down, again flattening the curve as we did earlier this year. This will not only protect lives, but will also ease the burden on our healthcare system. It will also help businesses dependent on the appropriate actions and behavior of our citizens. As we all work to control the spread, I know our businesses will need extra support, and I’ve reached out to legislators and Governor Inslee’s office to ask for rapid assistance for businesses and their employees.
I know none of this is easy, but I have faith that Bremertonians will take the steps necessary to slow down the spread of the virus in our community.
I’ve shared links below with information on the state’s response to the increasing spread of COVID-19, new health guidelines on social gatherings, and ways to have a safe and healthy Thanksgiving this year.
➡️ State’s guidelines and restrictions until December 14: https://bit.ly/398pl6j
➡️ Governor Inslee’s pledge of $50 million to assist businesses and employees impacted by restrictions: https://bit.ly/3lIw6Pq
➡️ Kitsap Public Health handout on safe Thanksgiving activities: https://bit.ly/3nygizp
➡️ WA State Dept. of Health guidance on social gatherings: https://bit.ly/32WrnSN