LOCAL COVID-19 CASE COUNTS HIT HIGHEST RATE EVER

East Wenatchee, WA – The COVID-19 case count for Chelan and Douglas counties this weekend hit its highest rate since the pandemic started more than nine months ago. On Tuesday, the average case count was at 836.4 cases per 100,000 people, up from 632.5 cases last week.

With the increase in case numbers, the health district last week added free drive-thru testing dates. From Nov. 20-22, 1,557 people were tested for COVID-19 at the testing site at Wenatchee High School.

“My concern is what this case count will look like two weeks from now, following Thanksgiving,” said Dr. Malcolm Butler, health officer with Chelan-Douglas Health District. “People in our community can still do their part to soften this surge in cases by celebrating the holiday with only those people in your household. Stick close to home this week and for the near future.”

The health district recommends wearing a mask around people who you don’t live with (even close friends and family) and limiting the number, size and frequency of gatherings. Wash your hands frequently, get your flu shot and stay home if you are sick.

If you do choose to gather with others, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19. Chelan PUD and the health district partnered to create a Safety Checklist for people planning on gathering responsibly during the holidays. The checklist is available in English and Spanish and will be distributed throughout the community via the schools and partner agencies.

For more information, including testing sites and dates, visit www.cdhd.wa.gov/covid-19. Follow CDHD on Facebook and Twitter.

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