Omicron Boosters Available
Covid Precautions Today
Say Yes Covid Tests
February Vax Clinics
Free At Home Covid Tests
Low Death Rate
Mask Up
Hunker Down
New Testing Guidelines
December Vax Clinics
Mask Gratitude
Pediatric Vaccination Clinic
REM ProVax PSA
Jeff Co Restaurant Vax
3rd Dose Vaccination
Mask / Vax Invitation
Mask Mandate
Masks for Protection #2
Masks for Protection #1
Masks: Three Reasons
Mask Up Again
Vaccination Clinic at Sunrise Coffee on June 25
Two Vaccines at PT Farmers Market on June 26
2nd Dose Vaccine Clinic on May 29 in Brinnon
New CDC Vax Guidelines May 2021
Schedule Your 5/15 or 5/22 Vaccination Appointment Now
4th Wave, Pay Attention!
Tiers for Vaccine Appointments
Mass Vaccination Upcoming Event
Schedule Your 3/27 Vaccination Appointment Now
Post Vaccination Behavior
Stay Vigilant, COVID-19 Variants
FindYourPhaseWA
Public Health Gratitude
Covid Vaccine Road Ahead
COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments
COVID-19 Vaccinations
COVID-19 Stay Vigilant
WANotify
Rising COVID, Rising Risk
Gatherings
Be a Leader
Third Wave
Case Count Rising
Thanksgiving at Home
Governor Inslee’s New Order
Avoid Large Gatherings
Three Things to Do
Pandemic Fatigue
State of Washington Thanks You
Tarboo Lake Covid Testing Needed
Covid JeffCo Pats on Our Backs
Masks and Shields
Masks Are Effective – Coughing
Jeff Co Public Health/Covid-19 Testing
Hand Washing
Top 10 Reasons to Wear a Mask
Washington Listens Call Line
Reopening / Your Behavior
Safe Reopening
Safer Reopening / Testing
Testing Caregivers
Dept. Emergency Mgt. – Mask Fabric
EOC Masks #1
Masks for You
Dr. Locke / Support Local Restaurants
COVID-19 Transmission Fact #1
COVID-19 Transmission Fact #2
COVID-19 Transmission Fact #3
Face Masks Q&A
N95 / Surgical Masks
Don’t Call 911 to Report “Stay at Home” Violations
Don’t Flush Wipes
COVID-19 Mask Guidelines
Grocery Shopping
Stay Home
Omicron Boosters Available
(September 22, 2022) Omicron-specific booster shots are now available, and are encouraged for anyone over 65, immunosuppressed, or otherwise at high risk. Locally, a sure option is to go to Tri Area Pharmacy in Port Hadlock between 9 and noon, Monday through Friday, no appointment needed. Also, Safeway in town and QFC in Port Hadlock offer appointments. Do this now to protect yourself and others against the latest COVID-19 variant.
Covid Precautions Today
(June 7, 2022) This is a public service announcement from KPTZ volunteers. About Covid today.
We got lazy, we got a little lax, and paid the price. It’s a heavy price indeed, and could have long term effects. Statistics show that wearing a good mask reduces chances of getting infected, as well as limiting your ability to infect others.
It was inconvenient, Disruptive and Depressing. I bleep-ing hated it.
Covid Brain Fog is a real thing. I still don’t have much energy.
Covid is much worse than people imagine.
We’re back to masking up, and testing before we get together. Lessons Learned. It’s worth it!
Say Yes Covid Tests
(March 16, 2022) Each month, every home in Washington state is eligible to receive two orders of five at-home COVID-19 tests.The tests are available from the website say yes covid home test (dot) org. Orders usually arrive within 2 days.
https://sayyescovidhometest.org/
February Vax Clinics
Vaccination clinics are coming! Pfizer vaccine is available for ages 5 and older. Moderna vaccine is available for ages 18 and older (First, second, or booster doses). The Clinic on Saturday, February 12 will be held at Brinnon Community Center, from 1:30 to 3:30pm. The Saturday, February 19 Clinic is at the Chimacum School Multipurpose Room from 9 to 11am. More info at jefferson county public health.org.
Free At Home Covid Tests
January 18, 2022) Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are available from the website CovidTest (dot) gov. Orders usually ship in 7 to 12 days.If you order your tests now, you can have them in hand when needed. If you need a COVID-19 test now, please see other local resources for testing locations in your area.
Low Death Rate
(January 14, 2022) Did you know Jefferson County has one of the lowest Covid death rates in the U.S. – despite having one of the oldest populations? So far, our death rate is about half the Washington state rate, and about one-fourth the national rate. Dr. Allison Berry attributes our low Covid death rate to vaccination, masking, social distancing and requiring proof-of-vaccination at bars and restaurants. Everyone is experiencing pandemic fatigue, but the sacrifices we’ve made have had real benefits for our community. Let’s keep up the good work!
Mask Up
(January 14, 2022) Like the rest of the world, Jefferson County is experiencing a huge increase in Covid infections because Omicron is so contagious. Our Public Health Officer Dr. Allison Berry recommends limiting our social contacts, especially indoors, and upgrading from cloth masks to surgical or N-95 masks. If you’re not vaccinated, please get vaccinated. If you are vaccinated, getting a booster will enhance your protection. Thank you for playing your part!
Hunker Down
(January 14, 2022) Jefferson County’s Public Health Officer, Dr. Allison Berry, is urging everyone to hunker down to the extent we can in January, when Omicron is expected to peak – dwarfing all prior Covid surges. Please keep in mind that Jefferson Healthcare Hospital has only enough staff available to operate about two-thirds of its beds, so those beds are often 100% occupied. If we can limit new Covid infections, we can ease the unprecedented strain on our local healthcare system. Thank you!
New Testing Guidelines
(January 5, 2022) Our Health Officer Dr. Allison Berry suggests that everyone follow the latest guidance on isolation and quarantine ~ available on the Jefferson County Public Health website. Key updates:
– If you’re fully vaccinated but it’s now more than six months ago, and still haven’t got a booster ~ AND, you know you were exposed to COVID ~ the current quarantine guideline is for at least 5 days.
– If you test positive for COVID ~ stay home for 10 days unless you are truly asymptomatic at day 5. Then you could consider consistently wearing a quality mask and avoid high risk settings like long term care facilities.
– If you were tested and diagnosed with COVID, and you’re asymptomatic at day 5, you could potentially leave isolation early.
More at jefferson county public health (dot) o-r-g. Use the site menu to navigate or search for COVID-19 testing.
December Vax Clinics
(November 23, 2021) Jefferson County has set the date for two more child vaccination clinics which will take place next month. Children ages 5 to 11 can receive their first or second dose of the Pfizer vaccine either Saturday Dec. 4 at Blue Heron Middle School or on Saturday December 18 at Chimacum Schools. Kids are eligible for a second dose at least three weeks after their first dose. Make sure to bring your child’s vaccination card with you in order for them to receive the second dose. Learn how to schedule an appointment at JeffersonCountyPublicHealth.org. Pediatric doses of the Pfizer vaccine may also be available at local pharmacies on a case by case basis. KPTZ thanks you for keeping everyone safe.
Pediatric Vaccination Clinic PSA
(November 4, 2021) It was announced that two vaccination clinics for children ages 5-11 will be held in in the coming weeks. One on Saturday, November 13 at Blue Heron Middle School from 9am to 12pm. And one on November 20 at Chimacum High School from 9am to 12pm. The clinic will be staffed by nurses with pediatric experience. These clinics are being operated by Jefferson County Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management. An appointment is required, and you can find a link to make one at the Department of Public Health’s web page.
REM ProVax PSA
I’m Michael Stipe, singer of REM. It may seem like the end of the world as we know it, as coronavirus numbers continue to climb, but there is something we can do to keep our friends and loved ones healthy. The coronavirus vaccine is safe, it’s easy to get, and it protects against serious illness and death. I got my shots and now that I’ve done what I can to protect myself and those around me, well, I feel fine.
For Jefferson County information including how to become vaccinated, KPTZ’s website has COVID-19 Local Info on the right hand side of the homepage.
Let’s stand in the place where we live!
Jeff Co Restaurant Vax
(September 3, 2021) A KPTZ reminder: All patrons entering an indoor restaurant or bar in Jefferson and Clallam Counties must provide proof they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to Public Health Officer, Doctor Allison Berry. Indoor bars and restaurants can pose a high risk for COVID-19 transmission, since they encourage unmasking of large groups of people indoors. The goal is to make these safer places, and to reduce transmission in our communities, allowing our hospitals to keep functioning and our schools to stay open more safely. Acceptable proof of vaccination includes a completed CDC vaccination card, or a photograph of your proof of vaccination. A person is fully vaccinated when they have received all the required doses of a vaccine for COVID-19 and 14 days have passed since the final dose. Thank you for helping us keep Jefferson County safe.
3rd Dose Vaccination
(August 27, 2021) The third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is now available in Jefferson County on a limited basis, for people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. Those who are immediately eligible include cancer patients, transplant recipients, HIV and those in treatment using drugs that may suppress their immune system. Vaccinations are available from primary care providers and pharmacies for these groups, with expectations that they will be available to the general public as vaccine supplies become available. People do not have to get the booster where they got their original shot. The Department of Emergency Management is planning to open clinics for immunocompromised individuals. For more information visit the Jefferson County Public Health webpage or call the Department of Emergency Management at 360-344-9791.
Mask / Vax Invitation
(August 27, 2021) Here at KPTZ all of our staff of volunteers are 100% vaccinated. We believe that getting the vaccination and wearing a mask is something we can all do to combat COVID-19. We understand that being vaccinated does not guarantee you won’t get infected, however, it does reduce your risk of being seriously ill, or hospitalized. So join us here at KPTZ combat the virus by getting vaccinated and wearing a mask. Thank you!
Mask Mandate
(August 14, 2021) Even though Jefferson County has one of the highest vaccination rates in Washington, we’re seeing more infections now than at any time during the entire pandemic. Local infections are spiking because unvaccinated people who don’t wear masks are infecting other people. The rise in infections is putting everyone at risk, vaccinated or not. Some Washington hospitals have run out of ICU beds, and though temporary beds can be added, there aren’t enough qualified people to staff those beds. In Jefferson County, the elevated caseload has exceeded the capacity of our health department to follow-up on new cases, making it harder to contain outbreaks. Consequently, Dr. Allison Berry, our public health officer, is requiring everyone 5 years old and over to wear masks in all indoor public spaces including stores, restaurants and offices in both Clallam and Jefferson counties.
Masks for Protection #2
(August 4, 2021) Have you noticed how busy the road into Port Townsend is? The parade of cars doesn’t end. With the uptake in COVID-19 cases in our county I think it’s a smart idea to mask up again. We know that not everyone got vaccinated so it’s up to us to take precautions for our health and theirs’. So I’m wearing my mask outside in large groups and definitely masking up for indoor public places. Do you listen to KPTZ for the weekly updates on the pandemic? I think it is more important than ever to know the latest information on what’s going on. Monday mornings at 9:45, here at 91.9FM and streaming on KPTZ.org.
Masks for Protection #1
(August 4, 2021) Hi I’m Buzzy Donahue. I’m feeling a little overwhelmed again. How about you? Here we are over a year in a half in to this pandemic and there are more people in Jefferson County getting ill than there were this time last year. What happened? We did everything right, we stayed home, washed our hands more than we ever have, wore our masks when out, and yet here we are. Because not enough people have gotten vaccinated the pandemic is still here, more contagious than ever. I don’t know about you but I don’t bounce back when I get sick like I once did so I’m all for staying healthy. That’s why I’ve decided to mask up when I go into stores and even outside with large groups. That way I’m protecting you and me.
Masks: Three Reasons
(August 4, 2021) I wear my mask in public for three reasons:
1. HUMILITY: I don’t know if I have COVID-19, as it is clear that people can spread the disease before they have symptoms.
2. KINDNESS: I don’t know if the person I am near has a child battling cancer, or cares for their elderly mom. While I might be fine, they might not.
3. COMMUNITY: I want my community to thrive, businesses to stay open, employees to stay healthy. Keeping a lid on COVID-19 helps us all!
KPTZ thanks you for doing your part.
Mask Up Again
(July 27, 2021) Washington COVID-19 infections recently shot up 133% over two weeks, and the Delta variant accounts for more than 80% of new cases. Clallam County has recorded 15 Delta infections. The Delta variant is dangerous because it creates a much higher level of viral load, and can cause an infection in four days instead of six.
Dr. Allison Berry, health officer for Clallam and Jefferson counties, is joining health officers from neighboring counties in recommending everyone wear masks in indoor public settings, even if you’re vaccinated. And if you haven’t gotten your vaccine yet, please think about the people most at risk: children too young to be vaccinated and those with compromised immune systems.
We’ve all made sacrifices, but infections are spiking because too many of us remain unvaccinated, and too many unvaccinated people are spreading the virus by not masking up.
Please, do your part so no one has to mask their pie hole any longer than they need to. Thank you.
Two Vaccines at PT Farmers Market on June 26
(June 18, 2021) Jefferson County Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management will hold a free vaccination clinic at the Port Townsend Farmer’s Market on Tyler Street, Saturday, June 26 from 10am-1pm. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available. You must be at least 18 years old to receive either vaccine. Walk-ins welcome. To make an appointment, call 360-344-9791 or register online.
Vaccination Clinic at Sunrise Coffee on June 25
(June 18, 2021) Jefferson County Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management will hold a vaccination clinic in the parking lot at Sunrise Coffee at 308 10th St. from 3-7pm om Friday, June 25. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be available. You must be at least 18 years old to receive either vaccine. Walk-ins welcome. To make an appointment, call 360-344-9791 or register online.
2nd Dose Vaccine Clinic on May 29 in Brinnon
(May 24, 2021) Jefferson County Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management will hold a second dose Moderna vaccination clinic at the Brinnon Junior High School located at 46 Schoolhouse Road from 9am to noon on Saturday, May 29.
That afternoon from 1-2:30pm, they will offer a single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccination opportunity at the same location. Appointments for that vaccination are preferred; however, walk-ins will be accepted.
To make an appointment for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, register here or call 360-344-9791.
New CDC Vax Guidelines May 2021
(May 7, 2021) The CDC has new guidelines for people who are fully vaccinated.
You’re fully vaccinated two weeks after getting the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or two weeks after the second dose of other vaccines.
Fully vaccinated people don’t need masks for most outdoor activities, including small gatherings with vaccinated and unvaccinated people, outdoor dining with other households, or walking, running or biking with members of your own household.
Vaccinated people should still wear masks at crowded outdoor activities like sporting events, performances, and parades.
Everyone should continue to wear masks indoors, including hair salons, stores, gatherings of multiple households, theaters, and worship services.
To make an appointment, go to vaccine locator (dot) doh (dot) wa (dot) gov (here).
Or, call the Department of Emergency Management at 360-344-9791 from 9am to 5pm weekdays. That’s 344-9791.
Schedule Your 5/15 or 5/22 Vaccination Appointment Now
(May 6, 2021) Jefferson County Public Health and the Department of Emergency Management will hold a second dose Moderna vaccination clinic at the Chimacum High School Multi-Purpose Room, 91 West Valley Rd., on Saturday, May 15 from 9am to noon. In the afternoon from 1-2:30pm on May 15, the single-dose J&J vaccine will be offered. Only 54 doses will be available. Appointments are recommended and walk-ins will be accepted. Also, there will be a first dose vaccination opportunity in the afternoon from 1-2:30pm. Appointments for the first dose vaccination are preferred, however, walk-ins will be accepted. To make an appointment, log on to https://prepmod.doh.wa.gov//reg/2656445109 or call 360-344-9791.
4th Wave, Pay Attention!
Although we’re leading the state in vaccinations, COVID-19 infections are rising quickly in Jefferson County and all over Washington. After just 10 local infections in March, we’re on pace for 50 in April.
Why? A key reason is three of the “variants of concern” – the so-called UK variant and two California variants – account for the majority of new infections. These variants are much more contagious and can cause more serious infections.
We’re seeing more infections in younger people, and statewide ICU bed occupancy has remained above the 80% “caution threshold” for nearly two months.
Don’t let your guard down just because we’ve been able to open the economy a little more. Wear your mask. Keep your distance. Sign up for a free, drive-through, local vaccination.
And please, don’t go to work or other gatherings if you’re sick. Even if your symptoms seem mild, it’s essential to get tested right away. Thank you.
Tiers for Vaccine Appointments
(April 5, 2021) Two new tiers are open for vaccine appointments. All current locations, along with specifics on who is eligible, are listed on the website, JeffersonCountyPublicHealth (dot) org. If you don’t have online access, help is available weekdays at the Department of Emergency Management Vaccine Phone Line. Call 360-344-9791. That’s 344-9791. Thank you!
Mass Vaccination Upcoming Event
(March 22, 2021) Our next local mass vaccination clinic, open to those now eligible, is happening this Saturday. This Department of Emergency Management and Jefferson County Public Health event is at the Chimacum School District Multi-Purpose Room, 91 West Valley Road, from 9am to 3pm. You’ll find the web links and phone number to schedule your COVID vaccination appointment are posted now at KPTZ.org.
Schedule Your 3/27 Vaccination Appointment Now
(March 22, 2021) The Department of Emergency Management together with Jefferson County Public Health will continue to operate the mass vaccination clinic on Saturday, March 27 at the Chimacum School District Multi-Purpose Room, 91 West Valley Road from 9am to 3pm. For more information about how to schedule an appointment and the most-current COVID-19 vaccine eligibility criteria, go to https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/.
To make an appointment, first go to FindYourPhaseWA to check eligibility. Print a copy of the confirmation page to bring to the clinic for your appointment. Next, log on to bit.ly/jeffcovax to schedule your appointment. For those who do not have access to a computer, please call 360-344-9791 to make an appointment.
Those eligible for a vaccination include:
- Critical workers in some congregate settings; agriculture, food processing, grocery stores, public transit, corrections, fire, law enforcement, staff and volunteers in congregate living settings.
- People ages 16+ that are pregnant or have a disability that puts them at higher risk.
This information is provided by the Jefferson County Department of Emergency Management together with Jefferson County Public Health.
Post Vaccination Behavior
(March 11, 2021) Our state Department of Health has adopted recent CDC vaccination guidance. We can now cautiously lift some restrictions for those who are fully vaccinated.
You are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after your Pfizer or Moderna second dose, OR 14 days after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Fully vaccinated people may now gather indoors with others who are fully vaccinated, without wearing masks, and can meet with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 infection.
We all need to remain vigilant in the face of slowing, but continued viral transmission and more variants, regardless of your vaccination status. Please continue to follow CDC guidelines to keep us all safer until everyone who wants a vaccine can get one.
Thank you.
Stay Vigilant, COVID-19 Variants
(February 25, 2021) COVID-19 infections have been declining across the country as well as in Washington, where Jefferson County has the second-lowest number of cases per capita in the whole state.
That’s great news, but… Every expert from Dr. Fauci to our County Health Officer, Dr. Locke, is concerned about the recent COVID-19 variants first discovered in South Africa and the United Kingdom. Both of these are now in Washington state. The South African variant may render some vaccines less effective. The UK variant is much more contagious and fast becoming the dominant strain in the US.
We’re vaccinating people as fast as we can in Jefferson County, but until that job is done, it’s essential that everyone – vaccinated or not – continue to mask up, wash up, keep your distance, and avoid gatherings with people outside of your household.
If you think you may have symptoms or been exposed to someone with symptoms, please, get tested right away. Thank you.
FindYourPhaseWA
(Feb. 22, 2021) If you’re one of the 7,000 people who signed up online to get vaccinated by Jefferson Healthcare, please be patient. You’ll get a phone call or an email when there are appointments available in your age group.
To register for the hospital’s drive-through vaccination clinic, go to JeffersonHealthcare.org.
If you haven’t signed up yet, you can go to FindYourPhaseWa.org to confirm your eligibility. That’s find your phase wa (dot) org.
You can print out your confirmation of eligibility, and find links for making vaccine appointments at Jefferson Healthcare and local pharmacies.
If you don’t have online access, volunteers are available from 9am to 4:00pm weekdays at the Department of Emergency Management. Call 360-344-9791. That’s 344-9791.
Meanwhile, please keep masking up, washing up, and staying six feet away from people outside of your household. Thank you.
Public Health Gratitude
(Feb. 10, 2021) KPTZ would like to express our gratitude to Jefferson County Health Officer, Dr. Tom Locke and Department of Emergency Management Director Willie Bence. And to all our public health professionals, our elected officials, also to the many volunteers who serve our community. Since the pandemic started, you’ve provided the tools and support to empower us to keep ourselves, our families, and our community safe. We appreciate all your hard work!
Covid Vaccine Road Ahead
(Jan. 27, 2021) Getting enough of us vaccinated takes time ~ and more importantly, a steady supply of COVID-19 vaccine.
As Dr. Tom Locke says, all pandemics end, eventually.
Vaccinated or not, we’ll need to keep masking up, washing up, and social distancing until the pandemic subsides.
Until then, local restaurants and businesses really need our support.
It’a long road ahead, and we can get there if we all do our part.
COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments
(Jan. 20, 2021) COVID-19 vaccinations are underway in Jefferson County, and moving through the age brackets.
Appointments can be made online at Jeffersonhealthcare.org, at Safeway, at Tri-AreaPharmacy.com, and now at QFC in Port Hadlock.
Please do not telephone the hospital or pharmacy for scheduling.
Go online to make your appointment, instead. Keep trying, and if you can, late at night and early mornings are good times to check.
If you do need help registering, call the local Department of Emergency Management weekdays from 9am to 4pm at 360-344-9791.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
(Jan. 20, 2021) COVID-19 vaccinations are underway in Jefferson County, starting with our most at risk citizens and moving down the age brackets.
Currently, Jefferson HealthCare and TriArea Pharmacy, offer vaccines by appointments only. These can be made online at Jeffersonhealthcare.org or TriAreaPharmacy.com.
Both websites have details about the process, including what to expect, what to bring and any paperwork needed to get your vaccine.
If you know anyone who is in this priority group, you are encouraged to reach out and let them know about this vaccination opportunity.
Please do not call Jefferson Healthcare or the pharmacy for scheduling.
KPTZ will let you know when other people in the current tier can get vaccinations, after our most vulnerable folks have received the vaccine.
COVID-19 Stay Vigilant
(December 23, 2020) Overall, Jefferson County has done well handling the pandemic. And now in the third wave of infections, we all need to be more vigilant than ever.
Lately there are higher amounts of circulating virus in our community. Without signs of flattening the steep rise, COVID-19 cases will persist. And since local case counts have gone up, this increases potential for life-threatening disease, and for running out of ICU beds.
We all need to focus on what we know stops transmission. It takes continuing the prevention measures: less in-person shopping, less mixing of non-household members, less visiting, reducing out-of-county travel except for absolutely necessary appointments, and increased attention to distancing, which gives more protection on top of masking.
KPTZ urges you to stay informed to be safe and healthy, during this challenging season!
WANotify
(Dec. 2, 2020) Washington State’s Department of Health now offers WANotify, a simple, anonymous exposure notification tool to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The privacy-preserving technology works without collecting or revealing any personal data or location. WANotify can be easily enabled in iPhone settings, or downloaded as an app for Android phones. More information at doh.wa.gov.
Rising COVID, Rising Risk
(Nov. 25, 2020) We’ve all done a great job of keeping the spread of COVID at bay, and with new advances in vaccines, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. But it’ll be a good number of months before we can say “hasta la vista, baby” to the virus and cases are on the rise. So, our Department of Emergency Management is asking you to be COVID S.M.A.R.T. ! That’s S-M-A-R-T:
S: Sanitize frequently.
M: Mask appropriately – even with family & friends outside your household.
A: Air Flow – When socializing try to stay outside. If you’re inside, use fans and open windows to keep that air moving.
R: Room between people – Stay six feet apart whenever possible.
T: Technology for gatherings – Use video conferencing technology instead of in-person visits.
Keep up the great work everyone and Jefferson County will get through this…together.
Gatherings
(Nov. 24, 2020) The State of Washington would like to remind everyone that you can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by gathering more safely this holiday season.
Try to keep gatherings outside – or virtual.
If in-person, limit to 5 or fewer guests, and make sure everyone can stay 6-feet apart.
Don’t share food, utensils or drinks.
And wear masks whenever you’re with people you don’t live with.
Learn more at coronavirus.wa.gov/gatherings.
Be a Leader
(Nov. 17, 2020) You can be a leader, and help stop the spread of COVID-19, help our front-line workers survive, and help keep our hospitals from filling up. Have a holiday celebration within your household. Save the parties for after the new year. We can make it through this together, and return to the people and activities we love. In early November, our state’s daily case rate was around 600. Soon after, it surpassed 2000. Let’s be part of the solution, for a healthy future.
Third Wave
(Nov. 17, 2020) The third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is already larger than the first two, and is expected to have a significant impact on our resources and our capacity to control the spread of infection.
Researchers at the University of Washington predict our state will run out of ICU hospital beds in December if the current rate of new cases continues.
Our public health officer, Dr. Locke has recently recommended two more actions that reduce transmission as well. First, assume that cold like symptoms may indicate a COVID-19 infection and get tested. Second, do not attend or plan any gatherings of family and friends from other households.
By continuing to take these precautions, each of us can help reduce the burden on our hospitals and front line workers.
So continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and stay at least six feet apart from others when out in public.
Currently, our own individual behaviors are the most important tool we have to slow the spread of this infection.
Case Count Rising
(Nov. 17, 2020) You’ve heard that COVID cases are rising rapidly around the world, and until recently Jefferson County has been a relatively safe bubble. Not so much, anymore.
Our county and our region are experiencing the exponential growth that we’ve been trying to avoid. King County new daily infections rose to a record 300 on November 1st, and just two weeks later they hit 800!
Jefferson County’s infection rate has also been rising fast, driven in part by spread among attendees of a party. And our local healthcare system is already maxed out.
We all want to spend holidays with friends and family, and temptations abound for letting our guard – or our masks – down. This is not the time! Please, for your sake and for the sake of the people you care about, stay home, especially during the holidays. We urge you to pay attention to travel restrictions and the ban on indoor gatherings. We can get through this, but it takes ALL of us to bring the infection rate back down.
Thanksgiving At Home
(Nov. 17, 2020) Maybe you’ve heard, the Governor’s order prohibits spending Thanksgiving with anybody outside your household. Maybe you’re thinking that you’re healthy and your friends or family are healthy and you can defy those Thanksgiving rules. Please don’t! Nobody knows who’s infected and it takes every one of us to stay at home to bring the infection rate down. Please do your part, again, to make the exponential spread of COVID a thing of the past.
Governor Inslee’s New Order
(Nov. 17, 2020) Governor Inslee has issued a new COVID-19 order rolling back most “Safe Start” rules, effective through December 14th.
Indoor social gatherings with people from outside your household are prohibited unless they have quarantined for 14 days or quarantined for seven days AND received a negative test result no more than 48 hours prior to the gathering.
Outdoor social gatherings are limited to five people from outside your household.
Restaurants and bars are closed to indoor dining. Take-out and outdoor dining are still permitted.
Groceries and retail stores are limited to 25 percent occupancy.
Indoor activities are prohibited at gyms, museums, and other venues.
Weddings and funerals of up to 30 people are permitted, but indoor receptions, wakes, and similar events are prohibited.
For more information on these temporary guidelines, go to coronavirus. wa. gov.
Avoid Large Gatherings
(Nov. 17, 2020) A cluster of COVID-19 infections in Jefferson County was discovered among attendees from unrelated households at a Halloween party.
If multiple events of this scale take place during the Thanksgiving or December holidays, we would continue to see a steeper increase of cases in our county – which until now, has had one of the lowest infection rates in the country.
With lower infection rates, we have the opportunity to continue our economic progress and lower the risk of health consequences to our citizens.
KPTZ, our radio family, urge all residents to resist any holiday gatherings that involve friends or family outside of your immediate household. That is, only those with whom you now live. Every time we mix households, we give this virus another chance to spread.
Wishing you Happy Holidays and will be seeing you on Zoom!
Three Things To Do
(Nov. 17, 2020) Reducing COVID-19 transmission is as simple as 1-2-3:
1. Limit your time in poorly ventilated spaces.
2. If you have cold-like symptoms … assume it’s COVID-19 and get tested, just as our county health officer Dr. Locke suggests.
3. Practice the trifecta: Distance yourself, wash your hands, and keep wearing that mask.
Jefferson County has been doing a superb job. Thanks to all who continue to keep this community safer!
Pandemic Fatigue
(Nov. 17, 2020) Now that we’re in the “third wave” of the COVID-19 pandemic, our state is experiencing a huge increase – not just in infections, but also, people have “pandemic fatigue.”
Yes, we’re getting pretty tired of wearing masks, staying six feet away from other people, washing our hands all day, and not being able to gather with our friends for a meal or a beer.
Like all pandemics, this one will eventually end. Early vaccine results are promising, but it appears we’re some months away from widespread vaccine availability.
So, fatigued or not, the most important thing for us all to do going forward, is maintain our efforts to slow the spread of infection ~ so our medical system isn’t overwhelmed.
Jefferson County has been doing a superb job. Thanks to all who continue to keep everyone safe!
State of Washington Thanks You
(Sept. 18, 2020) The State of Washington would like to thank everyone for helping stop the spread of COVID-19:
– By wearing a mask, even when you’re outside.
– By keeping six feet apart, even when everyone you’re with feels healthy.
– And by keeping gatherings small, even if you’re just with close family or friends.
Together we can keep ourselves and our communities safe.
More information about stopping the spread of COVID-19 at coronavirus.wa.gov
Tarboo Lake Covid Testing Needed
(Aug. 21, 2020) This is an urgent announcement from the Jefferson County Health Department:
Anyone who went to Tarboo Lake on Saturday, August 15 or Sunday, August 16 needs to get a COVID-19 test. Call your medical provider or the COVID testing clinic at 360-344-3094.
A Covid case reported earlier this week has been associated with a gathering at Tarboo Lake. Another case reported Thursday may also be related. The Health Department has so far identified 23 contacts to this incident and needs to reach all these people for them to quarantine.
Jefferson County continues to rise in COVID-19 cases. At large gatherings, people need to follow the mask and distance guidelines. Two cases were added on Thursday, August 20, bringing our total to 64.
Covid JeffCo Pats on Our Backs
(Aug. 13, 2020) Hi, Phil Andrus here, host of Cats in Our Laps. In 1977 when I decided to stake my future in Jefferson County, I was drawn by the physical beauty of the Peninsula, the nearby mountains and the sea, but also by the people I would meet, their openness and their sense of shared destiny.
Now we’re living in the fateful year 2020, the first year of the coronavirus pandemic, and it is those very same values that sustain us, that make us a model of adaptation to a vicious virus. The mountains and the sea give us respite from the constantly dismal national statistics, and each other. Our friendliness and our sense of shared destiny keep masks on our smiling faces and distance where we would rather hugs would be.
We are behaving ourselves so wonderfully well, we owe each other, all of us, even the skeptics, and especially our healthcare professionals, a resounding Thank You. How very lucky we are to be here, and to have KPTZ on our radios at 91.9.
Masks and Shields
(Aug. 12, 2020) This is Dr. Tom Locke, Jefferson County health officer.
To address the COVID-19 pandemic, Washington has a state-wide “no mask, no service” order.
This prohibits businesses from serving customers unless they are wearing masks.
If you are one of those few people who has a medical exemption to masking, you must refrain from entering businesses. Instead, you’ll have to arrange for curbside pickup, delivery, or have someone else – with a mask – do your shopping for you.
Please note a mask has to cover your mouth and your nose to be effective. Worn properly, masks can prevent 95% of transmissions.
A plastic face shield can give you additional protection, but does not protect anyone else. If you choose to wear a face shield, you must also wear a mask to protect other people from infection.
Masks are required in outdoor locations when social distancing cannot be maintained, and in all indoor public spaces. Thank you.
Masks Are Effective ~ Coughing
(Aug. 12, 2020) To stop the spread of COVID-19, cloth face masks protect others when you talk, cough or sneeze.
A mask is effective only when both your nose and mouth are covered.
Once your mask is in place, don’t touch! Keep it clean ~ wash it with soapy hot water, and heat-dry it.
Our Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke agrees with the CDC: cloth masks are effective to help stop the virus. Face shields are not recommended.
Be Safe, and Mask up, Jefferson!
Jeff Co Public Health/Covid-19 Testing
(Aug. 12, 2020) Coronavirus symptoms, even when mild, are unique to each person. And fever is a common factor, says Jefferson County Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke. Other symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. See more at the webpage: jefferson (dot) wa (dot) u s. When exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19, or after coming in contact with someone who has the virus, you are encouraged to contact Jefferson Healthcare in Port Townsend and ask for a test. Jefferson Healthcare’s dedicated Nurse Consult Line is staffed seven days a week, 8am to 5pm: 360-344-3094.
Hand Washing
(July 22, 2020) This Larry Stein from KPTZ. I’m in Seattle for awhile during this social distancing period. But wherever we are, we all have to wash our hands. I’ve found a silver lining – it’s how darn clean my hands feel. I really like the World Health Organization’s guidelines for washing your hands. You put the soap on and you scrub your hands before you put much water on them. You lather your hands, scrub the nails of one hand on the palm of the other hand. They give that wonderful technique where you wrap a hand around your thumb and scrub your thumb. You interlace your fingers from the bottom and then from the top to get in between your fingers really good. You do this all for twenty, thirty, forty seconds. Then you rinse it. Wow! It feels so good. I think after all this is over, my hands will be a lot cleaner.
Top Ten Reasons to Wear a Mask
(July 1, 2020) 10. Kids can go back to school. Wear a mask and keep all kids healthy.
9. Small businesses can stay open. With more people out and about, wearing a face covering protects our economy.
8. Be a leader in the community. Demonstrate how to take care of others.
7. It’s rude to make other people sick. With a new virus that can be spread to others when we talk or breathe, cover your face to keep your germs to yourself!
6. Show essential workers they’re appreciated. Protect their health by covering your face.
5. Express yourself. Use your mask to uphold your freedom of speech.
4. Leaving home to go out. To see friends and family, or get your hair cut, keep everyone healthy.
3. Support your cause. Many nonprofits benefit from your purchase of a mask.
2. Save money on make up. Or cover a blemish. Whatever good reasons!
1. It literally saves lives. Fewer people will get sick if we all wear our masks.
Be a good neighbor! And, thank you.
Washington Listens Call Line
(June 30, 2020) The Washington Listens program supports anyone in Washington experiencing stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or any of the events that have occurred because of it. The Washington Listens call line offers support services to help people deal with their stress from the outbreak and build recovery. Call 833-681-0211 Monday through Friday 9am to 9pm and weekends from 9am to 6pm. The number again, is 833-681-0211. Washington Listens!
(60-second PSA) The Washington Listens program supports everyone in our state, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. All services are anonymous, and available to any state resident ~ everyone in Washington ~ for children and youth to older adults.
Through the Washington Listens call line, support services are available to help people deal with their stress from the outbreak and build recovery. This includes providing someone to talk to, groups to help work through the stress together, resources to self-manage, and connection to resources.
The Washington Listens support line at 833-681-0211 is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 9pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 6pm. Washington Listens is available to anyone in Washington to speak to a support specialist. The number again, is 833-681-0211. Washington Listens!
Reopening / Your Behavior
(June 18, 2020) Public Health professionals have given us tools and guidance on strategies to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Taking these measures keeps us safer. If the level of community participation in these recommended practices is not giving you the protection from infection that you seek, you can still limit your public interactions to reduce your participation in more public settings.
