Coronavirus In Pierce County: Latest Cases, Guidance, Updates

PIERCE COUNTY, CA — The new coronavirus continues to spread across the nation, and within Pierce County, which confirmed three new cases on Tuesday, bringing its total to at least 17.

Statewide, 366 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Washington, including 29 deaths. No deaths have been confirmed in Pierce County.

State officials on Wednesday took more drastic steps to slow the spread of the virus, with Gov. Jay Inslee announcing a ban on large group gatherings in Pierce, King and Snohomish counties, as well as mandatory social distancing policies. School districts including Seattle Public Schools announced they would suspend classes for at least two weeks due to Inslee's order.

No Pierce County districts have announced full closures so far. The Clover Park School District is moving to half-day classes this week, and several others have suspended athletics, field trips and other activities.

To comply with Inslee's order, Pierce County is asking the public to cancel any gatherings of 250 or more people for "social, spiritual and recreational activities."

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Washington. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

Safety tips

To stay safe from COVID-19, Pierce County is asking residents to follow these tips:

• Wash hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your moth and nose when you sneeze or cough
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched
• Stay home and avoid others when you are sick

More information is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Washington State Department of Health.

Related coronavirus coverage:

• 366 Coronavirus Cases In Washington, 4 More Dead In King County
• Washington Bans Large Gatherings, Events To Slow Coronavirus
• Cruise Season Postponed By Port Of Seattle, Due To Coronavirus