Washington State is shutting down restaurants, bars, and fitness studios

Starting Monday, March 16, Washington State is shutting down all recreational venues – theaters, fitness clubs, bars – and limiting events to 50 people. Restaurants will only be available through drive-through, delivery, and pick-up.

In a statement released Sunday night, King County Executive Constantine and Dr. Duchin announced new measures to limit the spread of COVID-19.

“It is time, right now, for people to assume that they and everyone they meet is infected, to avoid any unnecessary interactions that might lead to further infection,” said Executive Constantine.

Grocery stores, gas stations, and other retail stores will remain open provided they meet Public Health regulations.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee applauded Executive Constantine for the decision, saying, “King County will shut down these establishments immediately. As the largest population center and current epicenter of this outbreak, they must act with even greater urgency… We’re in this together, Washington. How each of us responds matters.”

We’re in this together, Washington. How each of us responds matters.

And I know we’re up for the challenge.

My full statement: https://t.co/KO6taPv83D
6/6 pic.twitter.com/lBwjHDGc1m

— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) March 16, 2020

As of the latest update on March 15, King County currently has 420 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 37 confirmed deaths.

• See also:
  • City of Seattle using relief fund to help businesses affected by coronavirus
  • All of Seattle’s public schools are now closed until April 24
  • 15 shows to binge watch while you’re sitting in isolation