COVID-19 cases among people living homeless rising; death at Kent isolation and quarantine facility

Novel Coronavirus, Press Releases, ,

Summary:

Public Health – Seattle & King County announces 112 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among people living homeless or working in homeless services sites. This includes two confirmed deaths. In addition, there was a death of a resident at King County’s Kent isolation and quarantine facility, which will be investigated by the King County Medical Examiner’s Office. 

Story:

COVID-19 death at Kent isolation and quarantine facility

An individual with COVID-19 residing at the Kent isolation and quarantine (I&Q) facility passed away overnight. The man in his 60s was found unresponsive on the morning of April 20at 9 a.m. during a routine check by medical staff. The individual was living homeless and had arrived at the Kent facility on Friday, April 17th. The King County Medical Examiner’s Office will be investigating the death.

“We are all saddened by the death of our guest. People living homeless are more vulnerable to many health conditions, including COVID-19. We will continue to work around the clock to ensure that all King County residents, including those without a home, have a dignified place to be when receiving care for this virus,” said Leo Flor, Director of the King County Department of Community and Human Services and Patty Hayes, Director of Public Health – Seattle & King County.

King County I&Q facilities are for individuals needing a place to stay while having suspected or confirmed COVID-19 illness. Each individual receives care and monitoring by medical professionals.

Seventy people are currently staying in King County isolation, quarantine and recovery facilities.

The number of residents at King County’s isolation and quarantine sites is included in regular updates provided by Public Health. No other identifying or personal information will be provided.

Case updates among people living homeless or working in homeless services sites

Public Health – Seattle & King County is currently reporting 112 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among people living homeless or working at homeless services sites in King County. This includes two confirmed deaths. In addition, there was a death of a resident at King County’s Kent isolation and quarantine facility, which will be investigated by the King County Medical Examiner’s Office.