Reflections about our own experience with COVID-19:

KPTZ DJ host Dick Keenan and his wife, Kate, a public health retiree, share their experience after Dick was diagnosed in August with COVID-19. They recount their surprise at the diagnosis, and why it’s important to know the symptoms of COVID-19 and seek medical advice. In addition, they worked with the Jefferson County Public Health nurses to inform their few contacts, and used technology to trace their whereabouts during the period when Dick may have been the most likely to spread the infection. Dick experienced a very mild infection and Kate tested negative, as did all their contacts.  

While it takes a particular constellation of circumstances to become infected, we’re reminded that continued adherence to public health practices to keep us all safer through the winter, is worth the effort. 

On Monday November 16, at 5:40pm, tune in to learn more about the Coronavirus pandemic, in this informative rebroadcast of reflections about this personal experience with COVID-19.

At today’s Public Health Briefings for the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke discussed:
• Schools open safely trade-off for low community spread.
• Rapid tests are more prevalent; these are most accurate when the viral load is greater.
• The divisive national conversation is making the situation worse; meanwhile we are in a good situation here in Jefferson County.
• Most all of the activities allowed under the current Safe Start Phase 2 restrictions are not 100% safe. Yet, it makes no sense to close down when there are activities in which no cases have been experienced.

Willie Bence’s briefing stated that DEM plans are in place for messaging over the winter, to sustain us through the expected surge in cases while continuing with limitations to lifestyle.

At today’s Public Health Briefings for the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke and Willie Bence discussed:

Dr Locke:
• We are now in the third wave of the Covid pandemic, with Jefferson County now at 86 cases.
• Some Phase 3 activities are allowed here, even though Jefferson County is still under Phase 2 of the Safe Start program.
• School opening continues to go well, as example to other counties.
• The issues of indoor spread, since aerosols are causing spread.
• Encourages Flu vaccines to reduce risk of COVID-19.
• Discussion of testing accuracy and availability

Willie Bence:
• Mask availablity
• La Nina weather pattern may bring colder, wetter weather. Our Department of Emergency Management is preparing.
• People should prepare for storm situations with flashlights and supplies.

At today’s Public Health Briefings for the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke discussed:

• Jefferson County Case count increased to 81.
• Masks are more important than previously thought.
• Bracing for 3rd wave of the pandemic.
• Testing technology has improved, new 15-minute tests are being added to the resources.
• Clinical application is better – death rates have reduced.
• Natural immunity is still unknown following recuperation, but seems likely to be less than 1 year.

Willie Bence discussed:

• Concerns about Halloween and upcoming holidays, information to be released in weekly reports.

Submit your Public Health questions to Dr. Tom Locke by emailing [email protected].

The novel coronavirus continues to impact people around the world and, of course, locally. Chris Bricker, KPTZ Host and Lynn Sorensen, RN continue in their every other week series; Through Science to Health, to discuss local, state, and national news about the pandemic of 2020.

There is always more news and developments than Chris and Lynn have time for, but some of today’s discussion points were; the importance of getting a flu shot, the continuation mask wearing and other public health endorsed behaviors to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, and the definition of the term ‘herd immunity’.

At today’s Public Health Briefings for the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke discussed:

• Jefferson County’s case count remains admirably low, with 2 new cases added over the weekend for total of 79.
• Governor’s Safe Start program: even though Jefferson County is in Phase 2, a number of previously limited to Phase 3 activities are now permitted during the current phase, e.g., use of libraries, movie theaters, and weddings.
• Procedures for quarantine, following exposure
• Use of “Humanity Face Shields”
• Procedures for local school students, designed to keep schools open while assuring kids safe.
• Concerns for opening the pools

Willie Bence discussed:

• Activation for this emergency continues
• DEM website has updates weekly, on any developments
• WA DOH has provided PPE for the school districts

Submit your Public Health questions to Dr. Tom Locke by emailing [email protected].

At today’s Public Health Briefings to the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke discussed:

• Jefferson County case count remains at 71, no new cases in 2 weeks.
• The local schools have been in session for a month and are examples for other counties, statewide.
• KPTZ questions: dilute bleach, isopropyl alcohol are sanitizing agents. Alcohol-based wipes are a preferred product.
• For gyms, distancing guideline is 300 square feet between people, or a 17-foot radius.
• PCR antigen test is the “gold standard” for Covid testing.
• County Commissioners are looking at ways for Jefferson County to maintain, encourage and support behaviors that keep the incidence of Covid-19 cases low in our area.

Submit your Public Health questions to Dr. Tom Locke by emailing [email protected].

Through Science to Health series with Chris Bricker, KPTZ host, and Lynn Sorensen, RN, discuss the politics of the ongoing news coverage of the coronavirus pandemic information, coverage that is often confusing and opposing in nature depending on the source.

Lynn reviews a recent article in the Washington Post regarding the difference between those who gather for a Trump rally and those who gather and participate in a protest march as far as risk of transmission of coronavirus infection.

Is the worst of the pandemic behind us? A new term, long-haulers syndrome is being applied to some people who have ‘recovered’ from Covid 19 but are still suffering from multiple symptoms such as brain fog, severe fatigue, and trouble breathing.

At today’s Public Health Briefings to the Jefferson County Commissioners, Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke discussed:
• Latest regional case count statistics
• Folly of non-mask wearing
• Timing for COVID-19 vaccine is not imminently expected
• Need for ventilation to be inside when smoke prevents air flow from outdoors
• Dose exposure of virus is a big factor
• Efficacy of testing

And Willie Bence discussed the additional available N95 masks.

Submit your Public Health questions to Dr. Tom Locke by emailing [email protected].

On Monday, September 14 at 9:45am, Vicki Kirkpatrick, Jefferson County Public Health Director, and Willie Bence, Director of Emergency Management provided public updates during the County Commissioners’ weekly meeting about COVID-19 and our county’s preparedness.

Public Health Officer Dr. Tom Locke joined the meeting also, to address questions from KPTZ listeners. Potential for Phase 3 designation for Jefferson County was discussed, along with advise for getting the new flu shots.

Regarding the challenges for providing fresh air to reduce Covid-19 transmission, while smoke particles are at a dangerous level, Willie Bence stated that N95 masks are available to at-risk populations. Other options for safe open air space, are being explored.

KPTZ broadcast via 91.9FM and streamed at KPTZ.org this timely COVID-19 information, which was also videostreamed live and recorded for online viewing any time thereafter at the Jefferson County website.

Submit your Public Health questions to Dr. Tom Locke by emailing [email protected].