Washington Records 6,277 Coronavirus Cases Over 3 Days

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Health reported 6,277 new coronavirus cases and three dozen deaths Monday evening, accounting for roughly three days of data after the state cleared a backlog in its systems.

In a news release, state officials said while a surge in cases and testing delayed reporting over the weekend, the state's rapidly accelerating trajectory has not wavered.

"The epidemiologic curve tells the most crucial part of the story, which is that our disease transmission is skyrocketing," said Dr. Kathy Lofy, the state health officer. "We have grave concerns about what will happen in the coming weeks if people gather at Thanksgiving, or any other time in the near future, and spread COVID-19 to their friends and loved ones."

The latest figures were especially staggering in King County, where public health data showed nearly 1,400 new cases Monday, a number more than twice that reported the day before. The state's most populous county also reported 47 new hospitalizations and the 14-day testing positivity rate is now just shy of 8 percent.

The number of people currently hospitalized with COVID-19 complications has reached record levels across the state, with 800 in the hospital on Sunday and 82 patients requiring ventilators, according to state data. The number of hospitalizations statewide has grown by nearly 27 percent in just six days.

State health officials continue to urge against all socializing with people outside the immediate household and to avoid traditional Thanksgiving celebrations with family and friends. Under the governor's expanded orders, in place until Dec. 14, outdoor gatherings are permitted for up to 5 people but health officials say the safest way to connect over the holiday is by phone or internet.

"COVID-19 activity is increasing throughout Washington state, leading to more cases, straining the testing sites and hospital capacity," said John Wiesman, state Secretary of Health. "It is more critical than ever for Washingtonians to actively help reduce the spread of this deadly virus. Everyone should stay home as much as possible, and not congregate with people outside their immediate households, especially during this upcoming holiday."