As the death toll from the new coronavirus reached at least 31 in Washington state, Governor Jay Inslee on Thursday ordered that all public and private K-12 schools in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties be closed for six weeks.
Inslee’s directive affects about 600,000 students. The schools must close by March 17 and remain shuttered through April 24th.
King County announced Thursday that it has confirmed 36 new cases, bringing the region’s total to 270. Snohomish County also reported an increase from about 75 to 108 since Wednesday. The statewide total topped more than 400 in more than 12 counties by Thursday afternoon.
According to Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Rykdal, one in every six teachers across the state are over the age 60, which makes them more vulnerable to the worst effects of COVID-19.
The closures are limited to the three counties, but Inslee says schools across the state should have plans for future closures, which might come soon.
For most people, the coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover within a few weeks. (AP)
