Work sites are third most likely place to contract COVID

SEATTLE — Behind home and social transmission, workplaces are the next most likely place to contract coronavirus in Washington state. King County epidemiologist Vance Kawakami says one reason for spread in the workplace is that many infected people are asymptomatic, and either never show symptoms or are infected and can spread the virus before they develop symptoms.

Kawakami says poorly ventilated work sites or where workers are crowded together, like in factories, at construction sites, and in some restaurants, as well as unsafe habits — like taking your mask off in the breakroom to eat, drink, or socialize — add to the risk. Non-work areas like carpools and before and after work socializing can also be problematic.

The state Department of Health says there have been more than 304,000 confirmed coronavirus cases in Washington, and 4,449 people have died from the virus statewide. The state says 833,935 doses of vaccine have been administered. Check below for more updates.

We are currently in Phase 1B tier 1 of vaccine distribution, which means the vaccine is available to anyone 65 and older, and all people 50 and older who also live in a multigenerational household.

Cox Media Group