NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 12, 2021
Cowlitz County will move back to Phase 2 of the state’s reopening plan on April 16
LONGVIEW, Washington — Cowlitz County will move to Phase 2 of the state’s “Health Washington - Roadmap To Recovery” reopening plan effective Friday, April 16. The county did not meet the state’s COVID-19 case count or hospitalization metrics to stay in Phase 3.
In Phase 2, indoor social gatherings are limited to five people from up to two households, and
outdoor social gatherings are limited to 15 people from up to two households. Indoor dining at food establishments can operate at a maximum of 25% capacity.
Indoor fitness and recreation facilities and activities can operate at no more than 25% capacity. Indoor entertainment can operate at a maximum occupancy of 25% capacity or 200 people, whichever is less. Worship services have a maximum indoor occupancy of 25%.
Businesses and industries must follow the guidance for reopening outlined on Governor Jay Inslee’s website.
“Moving back to Phase 2 shows that we need to take extra steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” said Dr. Steven Krager, deputy health officer for Cowlitz County. “Now is the time to get vaccinated if you are eligible – and all those age 16 and older will be eligible April 15. Please continue to wear a face covering, maintain physical distance and avoid social gatherings if you are not fully vaccinated so we can get back to Phase 3.”
Cowlitz County, along with Pierce and Whitman counties, will remain in Phase 2 for at least three weeks. Counties will be reevaluated on Monday, May 3, with possible changes going into effect on Friday, May 7. To move back to Phase 3, Cowlitz County must meet both of the state’s metric requirements:
• New COVID-19 cases over 14 days below 200 per 100,000 residents; and
• New hospitalizations over 7 days below 5 per 100,000 residents
According to state data, Cowlitz County’s COVID-19 case rate was 332.1 per 100,000 residents and its hospitalization rate was 11.8 per 100,000 residents.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, the public can take these steps:
- Wear a well-made, well-fitted face mask, even with people you see regularly and in your smallest social circles.
- Keep gatherings outside whenever possible.
- Stay at least 6 feet from people you do not live with.
- Avoid any social gatherings indoors, but if participating, wear a mask and ensuring windows and doors are open to maximize ventilation.
- Wash your hands often, do not touch your face, and carry hand sanitizer for use when water and soap are not available.
- Stay home if you are sick or if you have been exposed to COVID-19.
- Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or were exposed to someone who tested positive.
- Get the COVID-19 vaccine when it’s your turn.
To view the “Healthy Washington – Roadmap to Recovery” metrics, visit the Washington State Department of Health’s data dashboard. To read more about the “Healthy Washington – Roadmap to Recovery” plan, visit Governor Jay Inslee’s website.
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