GRANT COUNTY, Wash. – Covid-19 cases are on the rise in Grant County, where an outbreak at a long-term care facility has affected more than 45 residents and staff, including two deaths and one more under investigation.
Grant County Health District said that the long-term care facility has taken the recommended action to prevent the further spread of Covid-19, which included isolating infected patients, routinely testing patients and staff, using personal protection equipment and more.
The facility also provided the facility with several commercial air purifiers.
In response to the outbreak, Grant County Health District said that everyone, especially adults over 65 and children under 23, should get the updated Covid-19 vaccine.
“Our recent outbreak is a painful reminder that COVID-19 can still have a devastating impact, especially for older adults and people with underlying health conditions”, says Dr. Alexander Brzezny, Grant County Health Officer.
Grant County Health District said that receiving an updated Covid-19 vaccine is especially important for people who have:
Never received a COVID-19 vaccineAre 65 years and olderAre under 2 years oldAre at high risk for severe COVID-19Are living in a long-term care facilityAre pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant, or might become pregnant in the futureWant to lower your risk of getting Long COVID-19Are working or living with people at high risk for severe COVID-19
Most health plans are still expected to provide coverage for the 2025-26 season, wrote the district.
Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) still covers the COvid-19 vaccine for members.
In addition to the Covid-19 vaccine, the district recommended staying healthy by washing your hands often, staying home if you are sick, weaning a mask if you have symptoms and must go out and by following other respiratory illness guidelines.
