County waits on new COVID rules

OTHELLO — Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s change in recommended protocols relating to COVID-19 infections, Adams County will take a wait-and-see approach.

Last Week, Director Vicki Guse said Adams County Integrated Health Care Services will “wait to adopt these changes.”

The CDC has rescinded its suggested isolation guidelines for those who contract COVID-19. Now, the federal agency suggests returning to normal activities as soon as 24 hours after feeling better and not having a fever.

“The Washington State Department of Health is in the process of reviewing the updated guidance and has not yet endorsed the changes,” she said in a press release. “Adams County Integrated Health Care Services will wait to adopt these changes until the DOH’s endorsement of the guidance has been announced.”

Guse also said the changes do not apply to healthcare offices or hospitals.

“People who are staying or working in a healthcare facility should continue to follow the guidance,” she said.

She also suggested people who recently had a COVID-19 infection should avoid going to hospitals and clinics, nursing homes and places where elderly or pregnant women may be present.