Increasing cases of COVID-19 in King County highlight the need to limit close contact
Crossposted from Public Health Insider Public Health—Seattle & King County continues to monitor cases, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 and has noted an increase in cases over the past two weeks. Public Health expects to see some increase in cases as we get back to work and other activities in the community because there are more opportunities for COVID-19 to spread. It’s been one week since King County moved into Phase 2 of the Governor’s Safe Start plan. With more re-opening of businesses, community activities and contact with one-another, Public Health—Seattle & King County is… Read More
I have Pride!
With social distancing, Pride may look and feel different this year. In our “I Have Pride” video, King County Metro riders, employees, and family members show we can still Ride with Pride! For more ways to engage with Metro and 2020 Pride, go to visit the King County Metro Matters blog.
Webinar for employees: How are you?: A Conversation on Emotional Health, July 8
As we continue to navigate life during the COVID-19 era, our mental and emotional health is likely shifting. We may experience waves of different emotions, ranging from fear and anxiety to grief and gratitude. And, we may struggle with how to understand or regulate them. Join Shawna Johnson, Balanced You Employee Health Specialist, and Heather Steffensen, Interim Employee Assistance Program Manager, for How are you?: A Conversation on Emotional Health. During this live, interactive webinar facilitators will share some of the feelings that may be arising during the pandemic, techniques and tools to regulate… Read More
Guidance for Workforce, Operations, and Customer Service Recovery
Dear employee: These unprecedented times have challenged us in ways we never imagined. Throughout, you have demonstrated unfailing commitment to our community and personal and professional resilience in the face of massive change. You have proven time and again your expertise and dedication to public service, inspiring the country to follow your lead and inspiring me daily with your efforts. We have a True North guiding vision to make King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. Our value of Racial Justice is foundational and will guide us in all… Read More
Consider donating to the Emergency Leave Program
The Emergency Leave Donation Program was developed so that King County employees who have been affected by COVID-19 can request donated leave. When the program debuted, many employees generously donated personal leave to support their colleagues. Now, the program is asking employees to again consider donating personal leave to the program, as the paid leave available is running low. Employees interested in supporting colleagues affected by COVID-19 can donate accrued sick and vacation leave in two different ways: Using PeopleSoft to make donations. Learn how by viewing this PeopleSoft Emergency Leave Donation guide (SharePoint), or viewing this short video (also below) from the… Read More
If you’re living with a long-term health condition, these free programs can improve your quality of life
We know that for many people, daily life looks a little different right now. As we continue to adapt, it’s more important than ever to take care of ourselves — especially if you’re living with a long-term health condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 6 in 10 adults in the United States have a long-term health condition (also known as an “ongoing condition” or a “chronic disease”). Doctors generally define long-term health conditions as lasting three or more months, and many don’t have cures. Diabetes, cancer, heart disease,… Read More
A call to #RecreateResponsibly guides reopening of King County’s parks and trails, and encourages ways to enjoy the outdoors safely
King County moved into Phase 2 of the state’s Safe Start plan on June 19. For the Parks Division of the Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP), going through these phases has meant taking steps to encourage new habits while re-opening its parks and trails following the COVID-19 closures. As it re-opens, King County Parks has put several measures in place, including on-site signs, recreation policies, and operational adjustments. Parks is also part of the Recreate Responsibly Coalition, a statewide group that has come together during the pandemic to educate the… Read More
Fireworks safety in a pandemic
Every year in the U.S., about 9,000 people are injured using fireworks at home, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Most of these injuries take place around the July Fourth holiday. This year, we have been dealing with the dual pandemics of COVID and racial injustice. Most public fireworks displays have been cancelled. If you decide to use consumer fireworks, please do so with caution and follow local rules and regulations. In addition, remember that social distancing, wearing a face covering and hand-washing are still very important. Fireworks are banned… Read More
Routine dental care again allowed
Dentists began seeing patients for routine visits again on May 19. Prior to reopening, dental offices have implemented new protocols, including additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), to further protect the health and safety of you and your family members. Some employees have reported that their dentists are charging them for the additional PPE needed to prevent the transmission of COVID 19. Delta Dental is now paying dentists an additional amount for each visit to cover the cost of PPE. Covered members are not required to pay any additional charges for PPE. Delta… Read More
Featured Job: COVID Homeless Testing Program Manager (Project / Program Manager III)
Salary: $87,640.80 – $111,089.89 Annually Location: Seattle, WA Job Type: Special Duty Assignment or Term Limited Temp (TLT) Department: DPH – Public Health Job Number: 2020NH11771 Division: Community Health Services Closing: 7/8/2020 11:59 PM Pacific Learn more about this position or view all available positions.
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