GRANT COUNTY, WA – Grant County Health District (GCHD) continues to observe a rise in COVID-19 in Grant County. The increase in COVID-19 activity has resulted in a rising number of people with COVID, including a significant outbreak in a local long-term care facility. The outbreak has affected more than 45 residents and staff, with two lives lost and one additional death under investigation.

Everyone, particularly those 65 years of age and older and children aged 6 months to 23 months of age, should get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine continues to play an important role in protecting people from severe illness during periods of increased community spread and outbreaks in all age groups. 

“Our recent outbreak is a painful reminder that COVID-19 can still have a devastating impact, especially for older adults and people with underlying health conditions”, says Dr. Alexander Brzezny, Grant County Health Officer.  “Our hearts are with the families and friends grieving the loss of their loved ones who passed away during this outbreak.” 

In coordination with GCHD, the long-term care facility has taken recommended action to prevent further spread of COVID-19. These steps include isolation of infected residents, routine screening and testing of residents and staff, use of personal protective equipment, and more. In addition, GCHD and regional public health emergency response staff have provided the facility with several commercial air purifiers to improve air quality.

Current Situation: COVID-19 Activity 

In Grant County, COVID-19-associated emergency department visits and hospitalizations have increased similarly to the levels of COVID-19 virus in wastewater surveillance. An increase in COVID-19 activity has also been observed in Washington state and many other parts of the U.S., however the trends are unpredictable and can change.

COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations 

In alignment with current Washington State Department of Health guidance, GCHD encourages everyone 6 months and older, including pregnant people, whenever indicated, to get the current COVID-19 vaccine. GCHD encourages you to have a discussion with your doctor about the best steps to prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. 

Symptoms and outcomes of COVID-19 vary for everyone and can sometimes be more serious than expected, especially in high-risk people. Vaccines can help reduce your chance of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. 

Last year, COVID-19 vaccines continued to provide 30-40% additional protection against urgent care visits, regardless of age, compared to people who did not get the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine also provided 40-70% additional protection against hospitalizations and ICU stays.

Getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine is especially important if you:

• Never received a COVID-19 vaccine
• Are 65 years and older
• Are under 2 years old
• Are at high risk for severe COVID-19
• Are living in a long-term care facility
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant, or might become pregnant in the future
• Want to lower your risk of getting Long COVID-19
• Are working or living with people at high risk for severe COVID-19

View the American Academy of Pediatrics updated COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for infants, children and adolescents here. For all other age groups, find more information about vaccine guidelines and availability here. 

COVID-19 Treatment for Those at Risk for Severe Illness

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, get tested. If you test positive for COVID-19 and are at high risk of severe illness, contact your doctor right away to discuss COVID-19 treatment. 

Prescription medicines are available to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults who are at high risk for severe disease, including hospitalization or death. It is very important that treatment starts as soon as possible to prevent serious complications from COVID-19. If your doctor prescribes antivirals, finish the entire prescription.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Insurance Coverage 

Many health plans are still expected to provide coverage in the 2025/26 season. Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) continues to cover the COVID-19 vaccine for members, including children and pregnant people. To confirm whether a vaccine is covered, you should contact your health plan administrator or the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.

More Ways to Keep Yourself and Others Healthy

In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, you can help keep your family and others healthy by:

• Washing your hands often
• Staying home if you are sick
• Wearing a mask if you have symptoms and must go out
• Following other respiratory illness guidelines

GCHD is committed to keeping our community informed of updated COVID-19 risk, vaccine recommendations and availability. Follow GCHD on Facebook or call us at 509-766-7960 to learn more. 

All media inquiries should be sent to Lexi Smith, Grant County Health District Public Information Officer, at lsmith@granthealth.org or (509) 770-4194. 

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