Washington Reports Nearly 1,000 More Coronavirus Cases, 20 Deaths

SEATTLE — The Washington State Department of Health reported 988 new confirmed coronavirus cases Friday, along with 20 more deaths due to the pandemic.

That's a sharp increase over recent days, where cases have remained in between 500 and 600 each day. Though alarming for a single day, the jump in cases can be attributed to Clark County, which reported nearly 500 cases on its own. Officials say that's because of a data backlog that was just cleared up, and say they believe transmission rates have remained relatively stable.

Deaths Friday were reported in Cowlitz, Grant, King, Kitsap, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, Walla Walla, and Yakima counties.

As of September 10, experts say the virus' reproductive number, which represents how many new people each coronavirus patient will infect with the disease, is about 1.14 in western Washington, and .92 in eastern Washington. The goal is to have that rate as low as possible, which would mean that transmission decreases over time. Officials say they hope the rate continues to stay low, even as the changing weather forces more people inside.

“As the weather gets colder and people spend more time indoors, we must all take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19,” said State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy. “If you gather inside with people outside your household, it’s critical to keep the group as small as possible. Limit the length of time you spend together and the number of gatherings you have. Everyone should wear face coverings and stay at least six feet apart. Opening windows can also improve ventilation, even if it means wearing extra layers to stay warm.”

Experts: time to consider getting the flu vaccine

Flu season is fast approaching, and this year health experts say it's more important than ever that as many people get vaccinated as possible.

Washington's top health officials say, in the middle of a pandemic, the last thing our medical system needs is an influx of flu patients.

"The potential for a severe influenza season, or even an average influenza season, compounding the COVID outbreak is very, very disturbing and worrisome," said King County Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin.

While flu shots are only about 50 percent effective, everything helps in the battle against the pandemic, say health officials. They recommend flu shots for everyone six months old or older. Patients over 65 should consult with their doctor first.

Read more: Health Experts: Now 'More Important Than Ever' To Get Flu Vaccine

Total coronavirus cases, hospitalizations and deaths by county:

The above numbers are provided by the state Department of Health, and some numbers differ from the totals provided separately by county health agencies.