Washington’s K-12 schools to follow new CDC guidelines
Governor Jay Inslee announced on March 25th that schools in Washington State can reduce their physical distancing requirements. This updated guidance falls in line with the CDC’s recommendations, and comes after several studies have reported that “physical distancing of at least 3 feet between students can safely be adopted in classroom settings where mask use is universal and other prevention measures are taken.” CDC continues to recommend at least 6 feet of distance:
- Between adults in the school building and between adults and students.
- In common areas, such as school lobbies and auditoriums.
- When masks can’t be worn, such as when eating.
- During activities when increased exhalation occurs, such as singing, shouting, band practice, sports, or exercise. These activities should be moved outdoors or to large, well-ventilated spaces whenever possible.
- In community settings outside of the classroom.
Learn more about the CDC’s guideline here.
Washington Entered Phase 1B Tier 2 on March 17th
This phase makes vaccines available to high-risk critical workers who work in certain congregate settings, like:
- Agriculture
- Fishing vessel crews
- Food processing
- Grocery stores
- Corrections
- Prisons, jails or detention centers
- Public transit
- Remaining first responders
It also allows for people 16 years or older who are pregnant or have a disability that puts them at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness to be vaccinated. Washington has also committed to expanding vaccine eligibility to all people 16 and older by May 1st.
To learn more about Washington’s current vaccine plans and your eligibility for a vaccine, please visit the links below.
Washington Vaccine Rollout Plan
Washington Eligibility Questionnaire
Oregon Fully Enters Phase 1B Group 6
All Oregon counties officially move into Phase 1B, Group 6 on March 29th. This phase makes vaccines available to:
- Adults ages 45 to 64 who have an underlying health condition
- Migrant and seasonal farm workers
- Seafood and agricultural workers
- Food processers
- People experiencing homelessness
- People displaced by wildfires
- Wildland firefighters
- Pregnant women older than 16
- People who are living in low-income, senior congregate and independent living facilities
Oregon has also committed to expanding vaccine eligibility to all people 16 and older by May 1st.
To learn more about Oregon’s current vaccine plans and your eligibility for a vaccine, please visit the links below.
