COVID-19 Update
As many wake up on Lopez Island this morning you will read about a third positive COVID-19 case in the County. This will hit home as it is the first positive case on Lopez. It’s important to note that the County’s Surveillance team is working closely with this individual to identify possible additional exposure. The good news is that initial signs suggest it appears to be minimal, and the overall high compliance with social distancing is serving to greatly reduce the overall risk to the community.
Read the Press Release HERE.
In addition, the San Juan County Health Officer has developed strict language to be posted at our ferry terminals, and he has the support of the WA State Ferry system to display this Ferry Signage. He is also involved in ongoing discussions to implement a 14 day quarantine for all people returning to the islands from any off island travel, as well as anyone newly arriving who was not on island when the Governor’s order went into effect on March 23rd.
As the Superintendent for the LIHD, I continue to work closely with our County’s Emergency Operations team and am currently focused on plans to address a medical surge. Information on that work will be coming out shortly.
I am also aware of the numerous volunteer efforts underway within the community, and I remain in awe of the way people are coming together to support this tremendous effort. I could not ask for a more competent and committed group of individuals, nor a stronger leadership team. We are fortunate to have incredibly strong leaders who are working around the clock to ensure the safety of you and your families. I am also thankful for my own Board, as they have supported my work on behalf of the larger community. They also remain highly engaged in a variety of activities, and are each contributing to local efforts supporting the community’s social and economic needs.
As always, do not hesitate to reach me by email, text or phone. You can find my contact information on the Contact Us page on the Website. I will continue to provide updates here and on the LIHD Facebook page. I also want to say a thank you to Lopez Rocks for supporting my efforts to provide up-to-date information.