First COVID hospitalization; count up

WHITMAN COUNTY – The first report of a patient being hospitalized for the virus was reported June 26 by the Emergency Operating Center. According to the press release, a previous case was hospitalized due to complications associated with COVID-19 infection.

Whitman County is now at 39 COVID-19 positive tests after another was added June 30, the ninth since June 17.

Although there has been an increase in testing capabilities and frequency from that in March and April, Public Health Director Troy Henderson said these tests are a "true measure" of viral activity in the county.

Henderson said the increase in frequency of the positive tests is purely an increase in activity. Much of the increase in testing has been for asymptomatic patients as part of screening before elective surgery. While Henderson considers the activity still low, there is more and he is a little concerned about it slowly ticking up. Since the 30th case was announced June 17, new positives were added June 18, 19, 22, 24, 25, 26, two on June 29 and another June 30 .

Henderson said those testing positive have a history of travel to Spokane or contact with other infected people, highlighting the importance of maintaining social distancing and personal vigilance.

Of those total cases, 31 have recovered, seven are isolating at home and one is hospitalized.