The three deaths include a man in his 40s, a man in his 60s, and a man in his 80s
CLARK COUNTY — The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Clark County climbed by 31 over the weekend, to 168 total. Three more deaths were also reported, including a man in his 40s, another man in his 60s, and a man in his 80s.
This marks the first time Clark County has reported fatalities from the virus in anyone under the age of 70. Nine of the 11 deaths have been in men, while 99 of the confirmed cases are women.
As of April 3, the county had tested 1,607 people. Testing data lags about three days behind, according to Clark County Public Health.
As of last Friday, there were 22 hospitalizations for COVID-19 in Clark County, with 10 of those in intensive care. That data has not been updated so far today.
Masks recommended
Following new recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) last Friday, the Washington State Department of Health is also encouraging the wearing of masks while in public.
“Staying home except for essential trips and ensuring you remain at least 6 feet away from others when in public are the best ways to protect yourself from COVID-19,” the county public health website reads. “But non-medical masks may be used to supplement those efforts.”
There remains a shortage of medical masks, and the county is urging people who may have some to donate them to hospitals if at all possible.
The CDC thinking behind recommending the wearing of masks is based on studies showing many people who are carrying the virus that causes COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms, yet still be contagious. Wearing a mask could help to prevent the spreading of the virus.
“To be effective, masks should be worn consistently,” the county says. “Be sure to wash hands before putting on a fabric mask and after taking it off, and be careful not to touch your face with unwashed hands if adjusting the mask. Fabric masks should be changed when moist and washed after use. Masks that are worn may be contaminated.”
U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams has posted a short tutorial video on making your own mask.
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COVID-19 Information and links
