The policy was supported by healthcare organizations, business groups, and arts and culture organizations. We are now in a different phase of the pandemic compared to where we were in 2021 and 2022 and it makes sense to remove any requirements for vaccination. With continued high levels of preventable COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and increased deaths driven by the Delta variant, serious stress on our regional healthcare system, and concern for a significant outbreak resurgence this fall and winter, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Seattle Mayor Jenny A. Durkan and community, health care, small business, and arts and culture partners joined in support of requiring verification of full vaccination or a negative test to enter certain indoor and outdoor activities and establishments. To date, more than three million vaccine doses have been administered in King County. King Countys local indoor mask order ended concurrently with the states, Public Health Seattle & King County announced last month. SEATTLE Washington Gov. "We are at a critical point in this pandemic, with high levels of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and no certainty as to what will follow the Delta variant," said King County Executive Dow Constantine. We have the tools to slow this down and to prevent not only needless suffering but also the ongoing disruption of our lives. So whoever comes in here has to be vaccinated.
It's the right thing to do for our workers, our customers, our economy, and the health and vitality of our city. Anthony Anton, president and CEO of the Washington Hospitality Association, said in a statement Thursday that the announcement creates different standards for different types of eating places and no additional standards for most businesses. SEATTLE - Seattle and King County Thursday announced an indoor vaccine requirement for restaurants, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and other entertainment venues. Our public health experts believe that now is the appropriate time to lift vaccine verification, based on high rates of vaccine coverage and the decrease in new cases and hospitalizations across the county. Some local businesses throughout Seattle have been requiring proof of vaccination from customers for weeks. To enter a restaurant you must now show proof of vaccination.
Vaccine verification requirements loosened statewide and in King County on March 1. To learn more about this policy change, read our blog post. Read the full story on the governor's Medium page. To enter a restaurant you must now show proof of vaccination. These steps will be important to protect against both current and future COVID-19 surges. Individuals under 12 years of age, who are not eligible to be vaccinated, are not required to be tested for entry. Require additional services in order for a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccine; however, additional healthcare services can be provided at the same time and billed as appropriate. The order is. The lifting of the vaccination mandate for contractors is part of the Executive's action to rescind the county's COVID-19 Proclamation of Emergency that was issued on March 1, 2020 . This applies to executive cabinet agencies, but the governor encouraged all others such as higher education, local governments, the legislative branch, other statewide elected officials and organizations in the private sector to do the same. Gov. Public Health continues to encourage everyone to be fully vaccinated and to be prudent about the use of masks in indoor settings., Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537, Jamie Housen, Mayor's Office, 206-798-5002, Main phone: 206-263-9600 We are moving in the right direction, and can continue taking additional steps toward recovery, said King County Executive Dow Constantine. Jay Inslee announced a face mask mandate across the state. Having been on the front lines since the beginning, and now responding to this latest surge, we know this is not sustainable for our communities or our caregivers. CDC recommends the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines over J&J for both initial and booster vaccinations. The mandate will also apply to outdoor events with more than 500 people in attendance. Enter your zip code in Washington's Vaccine Locator tool or check our Getting Vaccinated page to find a vaccination site near you. In-person customer service counters will continue to remain open. Chase Gallagher, Executive Office, 206-263-8537, Main phone: 206-263-9600 Mayor Bruce. No appointment needed: most pharmacies, clinics, and Public Health centers now offer drop-in COVID-19 vaccination. 99% of city employees have complied with Seattle's vaccine mandate, Mayor's Office says May Jenny Durkan's office announced that as of roughly 2:30 p.m., 99% of the city's 11,000 employees have. Associate Professor of Medicine and Allergy and Infectious Diseases at University of Washington School of Medicine, Dr. Paul Thottingal, National Infectious Disease Lead for Kaiser Permanente, Dr. IHME's projections show that COVID-19 transmissions will extend beyond 2021. said Dr. Christopher Murray, director of IHME. A negative Covid-19 test from within 72 hours will also be accepted. FAX: 206-296-0194, Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer, Public Health Seattle & King County, Dr. Faisal Khan, Director, Public Health Seattle & King County, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, rescinded the countys COVID emergency proclamation today, King County, State of Washington, and City of Seattle announce vaccination requirement for most employees, private health care and long-term care workers | August 2021. Executive Dow. A lot of people just want to go out, go on with their lives. The vaccine will be covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance, and the cost of the vaccine will be covered for people who are uninsured. Contact King County COVID-19 Business and Community Information by submitting a written inquiry or report online. Jay Inslee said. More than 150 restaurants and bars in King County have already implemented some form of vaccine requirement to enter, The Seattle Times reported. The policy was announced in September 2021 as a temporary measure during the Delta variant surge and to prepare for a potential fall and winter surge. At the City of Seattle, more than 99% of employees provided proof of vaccination or received an accommodation, while less than 1% were separated at that time. Employers will still be required to tell workers when there is a suspected or confirmed coronavirus case. The Delta virus is much more contagious, airborne, causes severe illness, and is seriously stressing our hospitals and healthcare providers," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health Seattle & King County. Starting October 25, Washington state's King County will be requiring proof of vaccination for people to enter restaurants, bars, gyms, and non essential businesses. See L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID19 and reporting cases. TTY: Relay: 711 Link/share our site at kingcounty.gov/covid/current, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Wikang Tagalog/Filipino Tagalog/Filipino, For community and faith-based organizations, L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID19 and reporting cases, L&I Workplace Safety and Health Guidance, Guidance and resources for businesses and employers, Guidance for Non-Health Care Businesses and Organizations, Safe Cleaning and Disinfection Guidance for Public Spaces, Business Health Trust Employer Resources, publichealthaccommodations@kingcounty.gov, submitting a written inquiry or report online. King County Executive Dow Constantine, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and others in the community support the order, according to the news release. We made that call on our own and we think it's absolutely the right thing to do, and we're prepared to stand behind that. The entire order is not expected to be permanent. SEATTLE King County will no longer require businesses to check patrons' COVID-19 vaccination status beginning March 1 as case rates and hospitalizations continue to drop. Everyone should continue to take steps to reduce COVID-19 risk, including getting vaccinated and boosted when eligible, using high quality, well-fitting face masks, improving indoor air quality through ventilation and filtration, and limiting time in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Therefore, it makes sense that vaccination is highly recommended but no longer required for King County and Seattle staff and contractors outside of health care settings, said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health Seattle & King County. The Seattle Times reports from March 1, businesses will be free to impose their own vaccination requirements if they choose, but there. The last mandate in Washington, an order requiring masks in health care and correctional facilities, is coming to an end. ", "Our COVID-19 response must continue to adapt to the difficult, changing reality of this pandemic. Almost 90% of King County residents between 18 and 64 years of age have completed the primary vaccination series, although most have not yet received an updated bivalent booster and therefore are at increased risk for preventable serious infections compared to those who have received it. Seattle will continue to follow public health guidance and adopt strategies that best keep our communities safe. For King County employees, this means a gradual transition of the nearly 5,000 employees who have been mostly working remotely over the last two years, not a sudden end to telecommuting. The requirements are similar to those recently enacted in New York, San Francisco and New Orleans, as well as in Washington states Clallam and Jefferson counties. . 401 Fifth Ave, 3rd Floor UW's IHME projects our outbreak to worsen in the next six months with hundreds of thousands of additional cases, thousands of additional hospitalizations, and approximately a thousand additional deaths, with the majority among unvaccinated people. We applaud King County for requiring vaccinations and encourage other counties to do the same. The mandate requires most state employees, health care workers and school employees to get. Last week, several local sports teams and venues, including the Seattle Kraken, Seattle Mariners, Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Storm, Seattle Thunderbirds, University of Washington Huskies, and all events at Climate Pledge Arena adopted vaccination verification policies. Browse all Safeway locations in the United States for pharmacies and weekly deals on fresh produce, meat, seafood, bakery, deli, beer, wine and liquor. King County 's vaccine requirement has been in effect since October 2021. Everyone age 6 months and older is currently eligible for COVID-19 vaccination and booster shots. Public health highly recommends following the current vaccination guidance which includes a bivalent booster dose for the best protection. But Washington state health . Washington State sets vaccine mandate for government and health care workers. This is the first coronavirus death reported in the U.S. A city official said lifting the mandate is expected to have. The updated booster shots will target Omicron variants that are spreading and also the original strain of the COVID virus. Preventing further COVID infections is a powerful way to protect the health care system. For Chris Lacayan, another Filipino business owner, he thinks the mandate is too much. Vaccination and getting boosters when eligible are the most important tools available to prevent severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection. He was joined by Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Kaiser Permanente Washington President Susan Mullaney, Washington State Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah, and Seattle-King County Public Health Officer Dr. Jeffrey Duchin . Seattle will continue to follow public health guidance and adopt strategies that best keep our communities safe," said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. In addition, since this policy was adopted, over one-quarter of a million King County residents have gotten vaccinated, meaning nearly 80% of King County residents are now fully vaccinated and 92% of those eligible have started the vaccination series., Although our mandatory vaccine verification requirement is ending, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations remain elevated and layered COVID-19 prevention remains important. For people who are unvaccinated or cannot prove vaccine status, they will be required to show proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test in the last 72 hours, or a negative rapid test result from a testing provider conducted on site at an event or establishment just prior to entry. The statewide and King County mask requirements for outdoor gatherings of over 500 people ended Feb. 18. The mandate required customers and visitors to provide proof they were fully vaccinated or recently tested negative for COVID-19 before they could participate in a broad array of indoor. More people are now vaccinated and protected against severe COVID-19. The mask order is the latest in relaxing COVID-19 restrictions in Washington state. At this stage in the pandemic, we have higher levels of immunity from vaccination and from many people having had COVID-19 infections. We don't want to keep going backwards so if we have to take it to this level, then that's what we need to do, Heigh said. There is no cost to you for the COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of immigration or health insurance status. The countys order includes exceptions for take-out orders, outdoor dining, and grocery stores. Ce bouton affiche le type de recherche actuellement slectionn. Washingtons statewide mandate for schools and businesses lifted March 12, Public Health Seattle & King County announced last month, Washingtons COVID-19 mask requirements to lift on March 12, Mask mandate in WA health care, correctional facilities to end, Fauci should be jailed over COVID lies and mandates, Cruz tells CPAC, Final state emergencies winding down 3 years into pandemic, Troops who refused COVID vaccine still may face discipline, A condition called POTS rose after COVID, and patients cant find care, Coronavirus origins still a mystery 3 years into pandemic, Lab leak likely caused COVID pandemic, Energy Dept. We also have tools to further reduce the spread of illness through improving indoor air quality (e.g., through ventilation and filtration) and, in some settings, with the use of high-quality, well-fitting masks.. It was three years ago this week that the first case of Covid-19 in the nation was detected and reported in King County. At a news . We are now in a different phase of the pandemic compared to where we were in 2021 and 2022 and it makes sense to remove any requirements for vaccination, said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Public Health Seattle & King County. If you have a disability and need accommodation, email publichealthaccommodations@kingcounty.gov. The lifting of the vaccination mandate for contractors is part of the, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Rescinding Vaccination Mandate for Contractors, Executives action to rescind the countys COVID-19 Proclamation of Emergency that was issued on March 1, 2020. WA to end masking requirement in health care, correctional facilities, Fire on Lake City Way in Seattle raises smoke, flooding concerns, One Seattle business is taking a stand against tipping mania, Tacoma woman refusing tuberculosis treatment continues to face arrest, Be bolder to get light rail done, expert panel tells Sound Transit. Everyone age 6 months and older can get a COVID-19 vaccine. AboutCareersPrivacyTermsContact UsAdvertise With Us, King County, Seattle, vaccination mandate, TFC News, Lalaine Ignao | TFC News Seattle, Washington. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. King County data shows that since the omicron surge began, residents who are unvaccinated are 27 times more likely to be hospitalized. STG is proud to support this policy to keep the arts safe for our community. If you have a complaint and wish to file a grievance, or have a question about possible discrimination, please contact the King County Civil Rights Program at civil-rights.OCR@kingcounty.gov; 206-263-2446; TTY Relay 7-1-1; or 401 5th Ave, Suite 800, Seattle, WA 98104. With over 85 percent of King County residents having received at least their first vaccine dose, vaccine verification will help keep people safe and keep businesses open. Children . Following the record-breaking Omicron surge, were have seen a steady reduction in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and hospital capacity is improving. With restrictions about COVID-19 rapidly changing, please check with individual departments to be sure a building is open before you seek in-person service. Although our mandatory vaccine verification requirement is ending, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations remain elevated and layered COVID-19 prevention remains important. For worksites with 50 or more employees, outbreaks with 10 or more confirmed cases must be reported to the state Department of Labor and Industries. Employers should follow Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I) requirements for COVID-19 in the workplace: Although Washington States public health emergency proclamations for COVID-19 ended October 31, 2022, COVID19 is still a recognized workplace hazard that employers must address. The vaccine mandate was an effective and necessary tool for protecting the health and safety of City workers and the public we serve. Request an accommodation If you have a disability and need accommodation, email publichealthaccommodations@kingcounty.gov. That's the plan of 14th District State Rep. Chris Corry of Yakima. Updated: 10:18 PM PST March 3, 2022. We are at a critical point in this pandemic, with high levels of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and no certainty as to what will follow the Delta variant. But to me, I think starting the vaccine cards, I think that's a little bit above, over, over the fence there.
Public and constituent inquiries | 360.902.4111 As a critical care nurse here in Seattle, I can tell you that our health care system has reached its breaking point. Our top priority has been to support the King County business community as it navigated changes in regulations, and it can expect that same high level of support and resources from the Chamber to help ensure safety for our community moving forward.. He says the businesses started requiring vaccine proof in August. The changes come as coronavirus cases and hospitalizations fueled by omicron are declining. But Seattle is not immune to the surge in cases and hospitalizations caused by the Delta variant. The mandate will also apply to outdoor events with more than 500 people in attendance. How can I get the COVID-19 vaccine in King County? The intent was to reduce COVID-19 transmission in high-risk indoor settings and thereby reduce the burden on our hospitals, while providing time for more people to get fully vaccinated. However, providers cannot charge the vaccine recipient the balance of the bill. Several jurisdictions have already adopted some form of vaccine verification policy, including New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles County, the State of California, British Columbia in Canada, and Clallam and Jefferson counties in Washington state. The vaccine mandate for Washington, King County and Seattle city employees would go into effect in October. Anyone needing COVID-19 vaccine can visit KingCounty.gov/vaccine to find a vaccine in their neighborhood. Since the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, King Countys policy has been to follow the science, listen to the experts, and protect life and health. We need help from the community, and we need more people to get vaccinated. Almost a year after lifting its indoor mask mandate, Washington state will drop mask mandates in health care, long-term care and correctional facilities on April 3, state health officials announced Friday, March 3. . Chinook Building Immune compromised children and adults should also get booster doses when eligible. As a member of the Seattle & King County community, as a parent of two children in local schools, and as an infectious diseases physician who has worked on fighting the pandemic since January of 2020, I am in very strong support of the actions being taken by Public Health Seattle & King County. How to tackle that choice, How to navigate the COVID pandemic in the Seattle area: resources on masks, tests, vaccines and more, At-home COVID tests and omicron: What you need to know, Mapping the pandemics spread across Washington. Businesses should continue to support employees in getting vaccinated and staying home when sick., We are thrilled to hear that recent public health data has encouraged King County leaders to move our community and our businesses into the next phase of the pandemic and prepare for the sunset of vaccine verification, said Rachel Smith, president and CEO of the Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce. The performing arts industry has been devastated by this pandemic. Isolation and quarantine requests Hospitals are really stretched right now across Washington State. Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer, Public Health Seattle & King County. Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine is approved for anyone age 18 and over, however in most instances the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines are preferred. Say your preferred language when connected. Today, nearly 80% of all King County residents are now fully vaccinated and among those who are eligible to get vaccinated, which are people ages 5 and older, 92% have started the vaccination series. In addition to the employee vaccine mandate, Executive Constantine also rescinded the countys COVID emergency proclamation today. After extensive engagement with community partners, small businesses, venues, and hospitals, Seattle is proud to implement a vaccination verification policy. The Delta virus is much more contagious, airborne, causes severe illness, and is seriously stressing our hospitals and healthcare providers," said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health Seattle & King County. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. "It just seemed like the tool at our disposal to keep our community safer," said Lucas Neve. State officials accelerated the timeline for lifting the mask requirement initially set to wind down on March 21 after federal officials loosened public health guidelines on face coverings. Press inquiries | 360.902.4136, Vaccine Mandate Frequently Asked Questions, Governor's Distinguished Managers Association, Governors Task Force on Independent Investigations of Police Use of Force, Request a Ceremonial Proclamation, Greeting or Letter. Vaccinations are free and health insurance is not required. For general questions about COVID-19 in Washington State call the Washington State COVID-19 Information Hotline at 1-800-525-0127. I am not covering everything about this mandate, but it is easy to look up if you have questions. Charge an office visit or other fee to the recipient if the only service provided is a COVID-19 vaccination. Starting October 25, patrons 12-years-old and up must show proof that they are fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of entry. I thought it was easier. Seattle Times staff reporters Elise Takahama and Joseph OSullivan contributed to this report. For City of Seattle employees, this means that departments will begin to bring more than 5,000 employees who have been remote back to the office based on business needs and work plans. But not everyone is for the new mandate. Public Health, King County, and City of Seattle will be working with partners to provide technical support and educational materials to businesses and organizations implementing the order. "King County's vaccine verification program will prevent infections, hospitalizations and deaths, safeguard our healthcare system, and provide safer spaces for the public and for workers. To protect customers and workers, preserve hospital capacity and help prevent business closures, King County will require verification of full vaccination status or a negative test to enter outdoor public events of 500 or more people and indoor entertainment and recreational establishments and events such as live music, performing arts, gyms, restaurants, and bars.