x
Breaking News
More () »

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee declares state of emergency after first coronavirus death

The proclamation comes following the first U.S. death due to the Coronavirus

Editor's note: The above video discusses the facts of the Coronavirus and compares it to past disease outbreaks.

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Gov. Jay Inslee declared a state of emergency in response to the new cases of coronavirus in Washington state on Saturday.

Inslee directed state agencies to use all resources necessary to prepare for and respond to the outbreak, according to a press release from the governor's office.

Inslee said the proclamation will, "allow us to get the resources we need."

The National Guard is also available if need be, according to the proclamation press release.

Last month, the Washington Military Department activated the State Emergency Operations Center at Level 1, the highest level, to help coordinate a statewide response. 

The state Department of Health announced on Saturday there are two additional cases in Washington: a King County woman who had recently returned from South Korea and a Snohomish County teenager with no travel history. 

RELATED: Two Coronavirus patients released from Spokane's Sacred Heart

Both of the new patients are recovering at home and remain in isolation. Inslee stated that the state's priority remains slowing the spread of the virus. 

"Our priority now is to slow the spread of the virus," Inslee said. 

Health officials say the easiest way to do that is by practicing good personal hygiene-washing your hands often, sanitizing frequently, and staying home when your sick.

RELATED: Employee at Lake Oswego elementary school presumed to have coronavirus

RELATED: Trump addresses coronavirus threat as first US death confirmed

RELATED: Facts not Fear: Your coronavirus questions answered

Before You Leave, Check This Out