As of Thursday, March 5, there are currently no confirmed cases of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the Olympic Peninsula.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) the disease is likely caused by the release of droplets from a sneeze or cough from someone who is infected. The droplets fall on nearby surfaces such as tables, phones, and doorknobs. People could catch COVID-19 by touching the contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. If they are standing within one meter of a person with COVID-19 they can catch it by breathing in droplets coughed out or exhaled by them. This is very similar to the way flu is spreads.
Most persons affected with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms and recover. However, some go on to experience more serious illness and may require hospital care. Risk of serious illness rises with age: people over 40 seem to be more vulnerable than those under 40. People with weakened immune systems and people with conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease are also more vulnerable to serious illness.
Should I attend City Council Meetings?
If you are feeling ill, please stay home and contact your health provider by phone. If you are concerned about attending a City Council meeting, you can listen to the meeting live through the City website at https://www.sequimwa.gov/669/City-Council-Boards-Commission-Media. The Sequim City Council will accept public comment by email from those who are unable to attend a meeting. Please submit your comments to City Clerk Sara McMillon at smcmillon@sequimwa.gov.
For more information and to learn what you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, visit the Washington State Department of Health website at https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus.