Braving grocery store crowds when you’re already stocked up puts you at risk of getting sick or infecting others, including elderly workers and others who have no choice but to be there.

The Anacortes Senior College has decided to cancel all ten courses for the upcoming Spring 2020 term, which was due to start on April 14. They said they are taking this action as part of a community-wide effort to protect seniors and everyone here even though the immediate risk from coronavirus seems relatively low.

Starting Tuesday, Mar. 17, City Hall will be closed to the general public. Residents may pay their utilities online, over the phone, drop box outside city hall or by mail. The Planning, Development, and Community Development permit counter will be available by phone and email with applicable fees to be paid online, over the phone, drop box outside city hall or by mail. Essential staff will continue to work in City Hall.

Anacortes Public Library will have limited access with access to check out and return, quick browsing using social distancing of 6 feet in place. All meeting rooms and computer access will be closed.

A fourth Skagit County resident has been confirmed having COVID-19, aka coronavirus. A man in his 30s was released from a hospital to isolation at home.

The COVID-19 outbreak has spawned confusion among health officials, doctors and the public, especially for people who fall into the gray area for testing and deciding whether they need to quarantine themselves. Where to turn for answers about isolation and quarantine varies by locale. All this means agencies are sometimes delaying needed advice and giving people incorrect information.

The Anacortes School District will close all schools and district facilities from Tuesday, March 17 until Friday, April 24. Other Skagit County school districts are also following this recommendation. Depending on public health guidance, it's possible the closure could extend even further.