The coronavirus outbreak has forced millions out of work and the federal-state health program for low-income people could face unprecedented strains as many states don’t necessarily have the resources or systems in place to meet the demand.
Skagit County reports another increase of individual testing positive for COVID-19 from 153 on Thursday to 160 on Friday. Number of deaths remains at four. But, the number of those hospitalized increased to 18 at some point in theie disease.
As states scour the world for masks and other protective medical equipment, the federal government has repeatedly invoked a little-known clause in the Defense Production Act to step to the front of the line for sought-after health supplies.
Effective April 3, National Parks along North Cascades Highway will close to all park visitors until further notice. State Route 20 will remain open to just west of the town of Newhalem (milepost 120). The closure point on the east side will remain at milepost 177 (Early Winters Campground).
Considering coronavirus outbreaks in Skagit County and King County, ProPublica’s health reporter Caroline Chen explains what the conversation around asymptomatic coronavirus carriers is missing, and what we need to understand if we’re going to beat this nefarious virus together.
Stay home, stay healthy. The only way for us to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home as much as possible. We will be sending regular emails like this to provide information on local response efforts, available resources and how to keep yourself safe during this difficult time.
