Snohomish County could fall back to Phase 2, officials warn

Everett

EVERETT – A steady spike in new COVID-19 cases, largely led by young people, and increasing hospital stays could soon put Snohomish County back in phase 2 of the state’s reopening plan, local leaders warned Tuesday.

The most recent number of cases shows 205 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants over two weeks. The benchmark for staying in Phase 3 is below 200 per 100,000. In the meantime, hospitalizations due to the virus are also expected to cross the phase 3 line. And for the first time, people under 60 make up the majority of COVID-19 patients in county hospitals.

“For those wondering why the numbers are rising despite the successful launch of the vaccine, a quick scan of the social media feeds is a good qualitative indicator,” said Dr. Chris Spitters, the county health officer, during a press conference Tuesday. “We just have too many people gathering for meetings with friends or family who are not fully vaccinated, not wearing masks, and not keeping their distance. Often they do this indoors to boot.”

To make matters worse, more contagious, and potentially more dangerous, virus variants have become the predominant strains locally and nationwide, according to health officials.

Earlier this month, the Ministry of Health put three counties back in phase 2. The next evaluation is scheduled for May 3rd.

Slipping back would reduce the capacity of restaurants, gyms, retail stores, and other businesses and the number of spectators at sporting events.

“Going back a phase is painful and takes a heavy toll on many,” said Spitters. “Going back two phases is worse, but we’ll go there in the next few weeks if those numbers don’t change. It has happened before and it will happen again if we don’t change course. “

During a tour of the drive-thru vaccination clinic at Arlington Municipal Airport Tuesday, Governor Jay Inslee urged Washingtoners to stop the spread of the virus by getting vaccinated, wearing masks and doing more outdoor activities.

Nationwide, more than 300,000 people aged 65 and over still need to receive their first dose.

“We need people to make the decision to get vaccinated,” he said. “I encourage people to talk to your parents, your uncles, and your aunts. Get them to get vaccinated. We can’t have these people in the danger zone. ”

To date, nearly half of Snohomish County’s adults have received at least one shot, while about 30% are fully vaccinated.

Another 55,000 cans are expected to land in Snohomish County this week.

On Wednesday, the Snohomish County Vaccine Taskforce will open a seventh mass vaccination clinic.

The Ash Way Park & Ride location in Lynnwood near I-5 provides drive-through footage and vaccinations for transit drivers.

All vaccines are only available by appointment.

At full capacity, the district’s seven locations could administer more than 100,000 doses per week.

However, a clinic at the Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett has been out of service for more than a week while public health experts are investigating a rare blood clot problem related to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine they sell.

“This seems extremely rare, less than one in a million,” said Inslee. “You are more likely to be struck by lightning than to have a problem with this vaccine. I think the chances are that this will be back in business shortly. ”

When Johnson & Johnson is cleared for use, it won’t be long before the Everett Arena is up and running, said Jason Biermann, director of emergency management for the county.

Joey Thompson: 425-339-3449; [email protected]. Twitter: @byjoeythompson.

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Governor Jay Inslee speaks to Marysville Firefighters Luis Cruz (left) and Chris Brunett about their vaccines at a COVID-19 vaccination site in Arlington on Tuesday. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)

Governor Jay Inslee speaks with pod manager Peyton Plucker at the mass vaccination site at Arlington Municipal Airport Tuesday. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)

Marysville firefighters listen to Governor Jay Inslee at the COVID-19 vaccination center at Arlington Municipal Airport on Tuesday. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)

Governor Jay Inslee greets South County Firefighter Nicole Picknell during his visit to the COVID-19 vaccination site at Arlington Municipal Airport on Tuesday. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)