Case Investigations & Contact Tracing
Health care providers let us know when a person tests positive for COVID-19 in Cowlitz County. Our Community Health team prioritizes contacting those who are:
• living or working in a high-risk setting (such as a skilled nursing facility, adult living facility, hospital, jail, homeless shelter, food processing facility, large manufacturing facility, or first responder/law enforcement agency)
• at risk of more severe illness
• involved in a possible outbreak
We answer questions, provide guidance, and share information about Care Connect if people are in need of food or other necessities while they isolate. We also work with employers and facilities as well as K-12 schools to assist with contact tracing and notification.
Those who do not fall within the above categories are encouraged to notify their close contacts if they test positive for COVID-19. Those who test positive, and their close contacts, can call the COVID-19 WA State Call Center 1-800-525-0127 if they need assistance.
▶ More information can be found in our Toolkit for Positive Cases and Toolkit for Close Contacts.
How To Protect Yourself & Others
Everyday practices to prevent colds, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses can also provide protection against coronaviruses, including COVID-19. Here are a few actions you can take to keep you and your loved ones healthy:
• Get vaccinated against COVID-19.
• Wear a face mask. Visit the CDC's website to learn more about use and care of masks.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Stay home and away from others if you're sick. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are frequently touched
▶ For more tips about how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, visit the CDC's website.
Washington State Mask Requirements
Masks continue to be an effective way to reduce COVID-19 transmission.
Due to declining COVID-19 activity, Washington state lifted mask requirements on March 12, 2022 for most indoor public spaces — including schools and childcare facilities, restaurants and bars, houses of worship, gyms and recreation centers, grocery and retail stores.
Masks are still required at health care facilities (hospitals, dental offices, pharmacies), long-term care facilities, public transportation, correctional facilities and jails. Additionally, businesses can choose to continue requiring customers and employees wear masks.
▶ To learn more, visit the Washington State Department of Health's website or see Governor Jay Inslee's proclamation: https://bit.ly/3CIYeLJ.
