COVID-19 Update: Delta Variant and Increase in Cases and Hospitalizations

East Wenatchee, WA – Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) is seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases and local hospitalizations due to the emergent COVID-19 Delta variant. The Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 was first detected in the United States in March 2021. Due to its highly infectious nature, the Delta variant spreads faster and quicker than prior strains. An increase in the number of cases will put more strain on healthcare resources, lead to more hospitalizations and potentially more deaths. Learn more about current COVID-19 variants here. As of July 27, a total of 17 residents are currently hospitalized with COVID-19. Local cases in the last 14 days have increased from 120 cases to 170 cases per 100,000 population. Track local COVID-19 data here. CDHD recommends that people continue to wear a mask and socially distance indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Unvaccinated individuals are encouraged to avoid public settings as much as possible and seek safer alternatives like order take-out, exercise outdoors and work from home. In addition, CDHD asks that residents limit activities that can potentially expose you or your family toCOVID-19 and its variants. For example, avoid large gatherings and postpone travel. If you are unvaccinated and exposed to someone with COVID-19, please follow the standard guidance: isolate at home, monitor your symptoms, get tested and quarantine if necessary. Lifeline Ambulance continues to offer COVID-19 testing from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday at 230 Grant Rd. in East Wenatchee. You can pre-register here or call 509-663-4602.If you have symptoms of COVID-19, please call the Confluence triage line at 509-663-8711 option 1, before seeking treatment at Central Washington Hospital or Confluence’s healthcare clinics. Please be cautious of personal choices as we work in partnership with local healthcare organizations to help keep you, your family and communities safe. To stay informed on local public health, visit www.cdhd.wa.gov and follow CDHD on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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