4 new covid-19 cases reported on Monday

Wahkiakum Health and Human Services was notified on Monday that four more residents had tested positive for covid-19, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 20 in Wahkiakum County.

Two were related to a case at Wahkiakum School District last week, one a member of the same tight cohort, another a family member. The other two cases have no known relation to the school district or to St. James Family Center.

The four have been advised to self-quarantine and anyone in immediate contact with them has been advised to quarantine as well.

According to the press release, Wahkiakum School District will remain open because of “stringent measures in place...and the fact the cases are members of a tight cohort.” The school district, health officer, and health department are engaged in regular conversations about these cases and school operations.

WHHS is working to identify anyone who may have an exposure risk because of close contact with the four cases. Anyone who is determined to have been in close contact will be notified by WHHS staff.

The Washington Department of Health is currently reporting an incorrect number of cases for Wahkiakum County on its website, and WHHS is trying to rectify the information.

“The uptick in cases is concerning. Citizens are advised to diligently follow Department of Health guidance. It is especially important to stay home if you are sick and to avoid social gatherings, particularly avoid indoor groups. Please reconsider any larger gatherings, even immediate family who don’t live under your roof this Thanksgiving; celebrate a different way,” WHHS advised.