PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Washington Governor Jay Inslee says he is broadening the state’s testing strategy.
“If you think you’re sick, please get tested. We strongly encourage people to do so even if you are mildly symptomatic,” he said.
He said this is now possible because there are many more tests available. It will help measure each county’s progress as well.
He encouraged anyone with mild symptoms, anyone who has come into contact with someone who has symptoms, and people who live and work where there is infection to get tested. This includes job sites, agricultural sites, close low income housing, homeless shelters, long-term care facilities and anywhere the risk is high.
While waiting for test results, Inslee wants people to stay home while waiting for a negative result.
Inslee announces Washington’s ‘Safe Start’ plan
During last Friday’s press conference, Inslee said he is updating the metric of requiring there to be no more than 25 new cases per 100,000 residents in the past 14 days, from 10 cases per 100,00 residents.
His new plan makes it easier for businesses in bigger counties to move phases. He said he will evaluate on a county-by-county basis.
“This is a path that will have more businesses opening,” he said. “It will mean more activities will be allowed, and more flexibility will be allowed for counties in a variety of phases.”
Inslee also encouraged all Washingtonians to continue wearing face coverings in public.
“Face coverings are an expression of love,” he said.
The “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order expired Sunday. KOIN 6 News will listen into Thursday’s press conference and will update this story when more information is available.
