Dr. Eric Chow, Chief of Communicable Disease Epidemiology for Public Health – Seattle & King County, held a media briefing on March 8, 2023, to share information and take questions about where we are in the COVID-19 pandemic.

A transcript of the briefing is now available, and the video of the briefing is below.

Dr. Chow discussed where we are as we commemorate the third anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic in King County:

We’ve come a long way since those early days of the pandemic. Where we are now, we have more tools (in the form of vaccines, tests and treatment) as well as the knowledge to be able to reduce our own risk of severe disease.

Given that COVID-19 is likely to continue to circulate in our communities, the risks associated with infection and reinfection will be present, whether that be for severe disease or post-COVID-19 conditions. The more we allow COVID-19 to circulate, the greater that risk will be for individuals and us as a community.

– Dr. Eric Chow, Chief of Communicable Disease Epidemiology at public health

Dr. Chow emphasized the importance of utilizing the layered COVID-19 prevention strategies we know work: staying up to date on the most recent COVID-19 booster vaccine, wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask in indoor public settings, testing early to get access to COVID-19 antiviral treatment, isolating when ill, and improving indoor air ventilation.

Originally published March 9, 2023.