City Urges Families and Businesses to Continue to Prepare
Seattle (February 29, 2020) – Mayor Jenny A. Durkan issued the following statement upon the confirmation by public health authorities of new cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), including one death, in King County:
“Although there are no confirmed cases in the City of Seattle, we have been preparing as a City since January. We remain in regular, close contact with the Washington State Department of Health, Public Health – Seattle & King County, the King County Executive, the Governor’s Office and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our public health officials at the state, local and national levels are working together to keep the public safe and informed. Individuals, families and businesses should make plans and prepare. The number one thing people can do now is to heed the public health advice to keep from getting sick, and stay home if you do get sick,” said Mayor Durkan.
Since January, the Mayor has convened her Emergency Executive Board and cabinet to address the range of issues related to the City’s preparations for COVID-19. To build on the City’s planning and preparedness efforts, the City will be activating its Emergency Operating Center to ensure continued coordination with our city, local and state partners.
The CDC, Washington Department of Health and Public Health Seattle King County have issued specific guidance to help community and businesses prepare. You can find guidance for the general public, schools, workplaces and employers, travelers and health care professionals as well as a more detailed Q&A here.
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), Public Health – Seattle & King County
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), CDC
- Novel Coronavirus Outbreak 2020, Washington State Dept. of Health
All residents and those who work or travel through the City of Seattle can sign up for Alert Seattle, the official emergency notification system. Alert Seattle will send real-time customized notifications via text, email, voice message or social media, during emergencies including severe weather, safety, health, utility disruptions, major traffic incidents, and more.