NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) RESOURCES AND UPDATES
COVID-19 is spreading in Kitsap County. Everyone should take steps to protect their health and the health of those around them.
Weekly Report
Explore state and county data from the Washington State Department of Health.
Learn More about the COVID-19 testing process in Washington.
Learn More about how Kitsap Public Health investigates and reports COVID-19 cases.
- You have confirmed or suspected COVID-19
- You were potentially exposed to someone with confirmed COVID-19
- You have symptoms of COVID-19: Wa Dept. of Health
PRINTABLE FACT SHEETS:
What to do if: You have COVID-19 symptoms
Gov. Jay Inslee issued a “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order on March 23, effective through at least April 6. The order requires Washington residents to stay home. People can leave home for certain essential activities including grocery shopping, exercise (if social distancing is maintained), medical appointments, and going to work at an essential business.
The order also banned public and private gatherings and closed non-essential businesses. Learn more about the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order and other statewide measures in effect at coronavirus.wa.gov.
The governor’s office posted guidance explaining what businesses are “essential” and can remain open during the order. Business operators can request clarification on their status, or ask to be added to the list by filling out this form. Learn more at coronavirus.wa.gov/business-workers.
KITSAP HEALTH OFFICER DIRECTIVES (Updated 03/27/2020)
Following the governor’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, Kitsap Public Health District Health Officer Dr. Susan Turner issued a letter with directives for Kitsap employers, workers, and residents. Read the full letter here.
Use Social Distancing
Practice social distancing by keeping extra space between yourself and others to reduce the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19.
- Stay home whenever possible.
- Keep at least 6 feet of space between yourself and others.
- Avoid crowded areas.
- Greet people without touching.
- Help family and friends who need assistance staying home.
Practice Healthy Habits
Everyone should practice healthy habits to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses:
- Wash hands often.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces.
Find additional tips to protect you, your family, and your community.
What To Do If You Are Sick
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Most people who have COVID-19 experience mild illness similar to a cold or flu. Some people are at higher risk of serious illness, including people with underlying health conditions and older adults.
If you are sick, you should stay home and rest. If you feel you need medical evaluation, or you are at higher risk of complications, stay home and call your health care provider for guidance.
See the Department of Health's guidelines for people who have symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19.
COVID-19 is an illness caused by a new type of coronavirus. Most people who have COVID-19 experience mild illness similar to a cold or flu.
Some people are at higher risk for severe illness, including:
- People with health conditions
- Older adults
Note: The Centers for Disease control no longer include pregnant women as being at higher risk for severe illness. However, there is special guidance available for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Common symptoms are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty Breathing
Printable COVID-19 Fact Sheet
Hoja informative de COVID-19
What to do if: You have COVID-19 symptoms
Learn more about COVID-19 on the CDC's website.
The Kitsap Public Health District is working closely with the Washington State Department of Health and the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. Our activities include:
- Investigating COVID-19 cases in Kitsap and notifying people identified as having been in close contact with confirmed cases.
- Providing guidance to Kitsap health care providers.
- Sharing information with local agencies, organizations, businesses and community groups.
- Providing daily updates to the public and news media.
- Encouraging Kitsap residents to take steps to protect their health and the health of their community.
- Providing education about social distancing measures.