A massive backlog caused by thousands of Washingtonians being tested for COVID-19 led to over 6,200 new coronavirus cases in the past three days.
The Washington State Department of Health reported 6,277 new COVID-19 cases, 331 additional hospitalizations and 36 more deaths over the past three days.
The latest surge pushes the statewide total since the start of the pandemic to 147,537 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 10,096 hospitalizations and 2,655 deaths.
State health officials urge the public to not have friends and other family inside your home for social gatherings. Social gatherings of up to five people outside, distanced, and wearing a face covering at all times is a safer way to connect with others.
“COVID-19 activity is increasing throughout Washington state, leading to more cases, straining the testing sites and hospital capacity. It is more critical than ever for Washingtonians to actively help reduce the spread of this deadly virus,” says Secretary of Health John Wiesman.