Washington Schedules 'Urgent' Coronavirus Briefing Tuesday

OLYMPIA, WA — State and local health officials in Washington have scheduled an "urgent COVID-19 response media briefing" Tuesday afternoon, warning in a news release that "time is running out to reverse course and flatten the curve."

The Washington State Department of Health on Monday added 1,239 coronavirus cases to its official tally, marking the sixth consecutive day with more than 1,000 new illnesses reported across the state. Monday's total includes 21 additional deaths between Friday and Sunday, as the state no longer updates its death toll on weekends. The number of total hospitalizations rose by 228.

Latest: As Coronavirus Surge Accelerates, WA Leaders Issue Urgent Warning

Across the United States, the number of total infections grew by 1 million in just 10 days, and the nation now accounts for roughly one-fifth of the globe's COVID-19 illnesses, according to Johns Hopkins University. As NPR reports, some health experts predict the U.S. could average more than 200,000 new cases each day by Thanksgiving.

Tuesday's news conference can be streamed online via TVW, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Related: U.S. Tops 10 Million Confirmed Coronavirus Cases

Fall coronavirus surge in Washington:

Nov. 4: 1,469 cases*
Nov. 5: 1,070 cases
Nov. 6: 1,691 cases*
Nov. 7: 1,770 cases*
Nov. 8: 1,320 cases
Nov. 9: 1,239 cases
*New daily records

The state's latest numbers include 332 cases added in King County, 210 in Spokane County, 157 cases in Snohomish County and 110 cases in Pierce County.

Washington's rate of new cases over the last two weeks has now risen to 139 per 100,000 residents, a figure nearly six times the goal. At least 24 of Washington's 39 counties are in the highest bracket for coronavirus activity, while just two are meeting the target threshold.

The state's testing positivity rate Monday sat at 4.7 percent — more than twice the target — and suggesting increased spread.

Health officials have sounded the alarm on an uptick in cases since late September, urging residents recommit to proven public health measures, including proper use of face coverings and limiting social interactions with those outside the immediate household. As the holidays approach, public health experts are wary that further growth in the virus's activity could jeopardize the state's health care system with devastating consequences.

"If we see people continue with their usual Thanksgiving plans and gather in groups, we will undoubtedly have a very unmanageable situation coming out of that," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, health officer for King County, on Friday. "We really need people to think about this holiday, and think about how to make sure that next year everybody in the family is at the dinner table, and we don't lose people that we would have been able to celebrate with, by acting responsibly and doing everything we can this Thanksgiving."

Steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19, from the Washington State Department of Health:

• Limit in-person gatherings as much as you can. That means reducing the number of times you gather, how many people attend and how long you spend together. Gather outside if possible, or open windows and doors to maximize ventilation inside.
• Always wear a face covering when you’re around people who don’t live with you. This includes close friends and family. It may feel awkward to do this around people we know well and trust, but many people get COVID-19 from someone who doesn’t have symptoms yet. Even if you’re keeping some physical distance, it’s still a good idea to wear a face covering.
• Talk to your family and friends about alternate ways to celebrate the holidays. Brainstorm ideas for virtual celebrations so you can still enjoy spending time together without putting each other at risk.
• Make a safety plan for in-person gatherings. Have a conversation with your family and friends about what you’re going to do to reduce risk of spreading COVID-19 when you gather.
• Stay home if you’re sick or have been exposed to COVID-19. If you’re feeling a little under the weather but aren’t sure if you’re getting sick, take the cautious approach and protect others by staying home.
• Keep up your good hygiene habits. Wash or sanitize your hands often and avoid touching your face.

Related coverage:

• King County Coronavirus Levels Reach New Highs
• Washington Releases New Report On Coronavirus And Schools
• Washington Coronavirus Activity Is 'Intensifying': Report
• King County Warns Of Coronavirus Trends Heading Into The Holidays

Washington coronavirus links and information:

• Washington coronavirus dashboard
• State risk assessment dashboard
• King County's daily outbreak summary
• Key indicators dashboard
• Reducing coronavirus risk indoors: recommendations for fall and winter
• Why is the flu vaccine so important this year?