This week marks one year since the first cases of COVID-19 were identified in King County and sadly, our community experienced the first COVID-19 death nationwide. During our February 26, 2021 media briefing, King County Executive Dow Constantine and Dr. Jeff Duchin reflected on the anniversary — thanking our entire community for helping us progress towards a healthier tomorrow.

Make no mistake – this virus has taken its toll on our community, and we are forever changed because of it. But as we approach the one year mark of this pandemic, the people of King County can know that everything you’ve done to help stop the spread has made a huge difference, and it’s not hyperbole to say that your work has saved a life of your friends, family or neighbors.

And as we look back, it’s important to also remember where we are and the road ahead. Our vaccination efforts are just beginning, and already more than 475,000 doses of the vaccine have been given in King County. Almost 60% of everyone eligible to get a vaccine at this point has received at least one dose, and we’re excited about the increases to come from the federal government in the weeks and months ahead.

Executive DOW CONSTANTINE

One year ago Sunday King County was recognized as ground zero for an emerging pandemic due to a new respiratory virus, SARS-CoV-2, that swept us up into a storm of suffering and uncertainty that continues to buffet us physically, emotionally, socially & economically, tearing at the fabric of our communities...But, today, a year later, despite the fact that our situation remains precarious and significant uncertainty, for the first time I feel encouraged that the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and that a return to more normal life truly is in sight.

Public Health – Seattle & King COUnty Health officer, Dr. Jeff DUchin

Originally posted 2/26/21