12 First Responders Show Flu-Like Symptoms In Kirkland

KIRKLAND, WA—According to Kirkland officials, 26 firefighters and three police officers remain in quarantine after helping transport Life Care Center patients to nearby hospitals following a recent coronavirus outbreak at the nursing home.

Twelve first responders are also now showing flu-like symptoms, and 19 have confirmed direct exposure, city officials said Tuesday. Most are in isolation or quarantine at home.

"Fire Station 21 continues to be kept offline and is available to firefighters for quarantine, and we have identified an additional building for isolation," city officials said in a news release.

The Kirkland fire and police departments remain fully staffed and are responding to calls as normal, city officials stressed. They added that the city's first responders have CDC recommended personal protection equipment and are following recommended protocols.

“Our number one priority is ensuring the safety of our community and first responders,” said Chief Joe Sanford. “I’m so proud of our first responders who have stepped up to make sure that our community is still receiving the highest level of service.”

City officials said they've received requests from residents wondering how they can assist in the response. According to them, the most important thing people can do right now is heed Public Health - Seattle & King County’s recommendations and take specific actions to reduce the risk individuals and families, including:

• More hand washing; less face touching. Regular hand washing for at least 20 seconds with soap and water will decrease risk that the virus is transmitted.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
• Be prepared at home:
  • Have a plan to care for family members should they get sick or schools/offices be closed.
  • Know workplace telecommute options and school/daycare policies.
  • Stock up on food supplies and prescription medications now to avoid leaving home if you or someone in your household becomes infected.

As of Tuesday, nine people have now died from the coronavirus (COVID-19). The deaths include eight people in King County and one person in Snohomish County, with the total number of COVID-19 cases in each county rising to 21 and six respectively.

SEE ALSO:

• 9 Coronavirus Deaths In Washington, 7 More Cases In King County