New coronavirus outbreak detected in Kitsap County hospital

St. Michael Medical Center, located in Bremerton, is now the latest active COVID-19 outbreak site in the state.

According to the Kitsap Public Health District and the Washington State Department of Health’s (DOH) lastest bulletin, the facility went into restrictions as of August 21, when more than 30 cases of coronavirus were reported among hospital employees and patients.

“St. Michael provides vital services to our community and we are taking this situation extremely seriously,” Kitsap Public Health District Health Officer Dr. Gib Morrow said in a press release. “Our team has worked closely with the hospital to notify people who may have been exposed and prevent additional illnesses. We are also coordinating with the Department of Health to provide guidance and support to the hospital. We appreciate St. Michael’s quick action and ongoing cooperation.”

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Public health authorities are recommending several mitigation measures, including ongoing coronavirus testing for staff and patients, robust screening for staff, and limiting non-essential access to the facility.

The hospital will post updates on its website.