COVID-19 Information
COVID-19 information pages are no longer updated.
See the CDC's COVID website for current information and trends.
COVID-19 information pages are no longer updated.
See the CDC's COVID website for current information and trends.
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COMMUNITY Resources
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This community has a longstanding and extensive emergency preparedness network composed of many hundreds of trained volunteers with relationships across all neighborhoods.While the City does not have the capacity to check in on all vulnerable populations, we encourage "neighbor to neighbor" support during this time. For example, if you are aware of an elderly resident concerned about leaving their home, you may be able to help by delivering meals or groceries - remember to follow Public Health guidelines for social distancing to prevent an unintentional exposure.The City’s Youth and Family Services Department provides case management and mental health services to Island seniors and these will continue during the outbreak.
For more information, documents, and helpful links visit our COMMUNITY resources page. -
King County Data Dashboard
Share King County Data Dashboard on Facebook Share King County Data Dashboard on Twitter Share King County Data Dashboard on Linkedin Email King County Data Dashboard linkUpdated October 1 - King County Public Health maintains several data dashboards that provide regular updates about COVID-19 cases and deaths, key trends and indicators of COVID-19 activity, long-term care information, and more.
Total cases, deaths, and demographics for the County. Zoom in on each city to get the latest local data. Updated daily between 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. To access Mercer Island specific data, click on the City-level tab in the menu at the top of the charts. Once the City tab is open, select Mercer Island from the drop-down menu on the left-hand side of the page (see image to the right).
Key Indicators of COVID-19 Activity Dashboard
Key indicators and trends that track COVID-19 activity like outbreak growth, rate of hospitalization, and testing capacity. These indicators, along with other data, are key considerations for reviewing current restrictions on activity, recommendations, and precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Updated weekly on Tuesdays.
Long-Term Care Facility Dashboard
The data provided in the dashboard describes the impacts of COVID-19 on the residents and staff of long-term care facilities licensed by the State, including nursing homes, adult family homes, and assisted living facilities. Updated weekly on Thursdays.
Economic, Social, and Overall Health Impacts Dashboard
Shows changes in key economic, social, and other health indicators resulting from strategies to slow the spread of COVID-19. Updated weekly.
Syndromic Surveillance Dashboard
Emergency department visits and hospitalizations for COVID-like illness and pneumonia at King County healthcare facilities. Updated weekly on Wednesdays.
Shows the impacts of COVID-19 on communities of color compared to whites in King County, WA. Updated weekly on Mondays.
Have you ever wondered why the data changes? You've noticed the numbers are lower than the previous day? King County Public Health has answered seven of the most asked questions about their data dashboards. Check it out and see if they've answered your questions!
Washington State COVID-19 Data Dashboard
Looking for the latest information on state-wide case counts, epidemiologic curves, testing, hospitalizations or other information? The state has created a data dashboard complete with this information and more. Data is updated daily. Click here to visit the data dashboard.
On March 25, Public Health—Seattle & King County launched a data dashboard that provides daily updates to COVID-19 cases and deaths. Visit www.kingcounty.gov/covid/data to see the dashboard.
The dashboard provides data on how many people have tested positive in each city, age ranges of those who test positive or who have died, and more.
King County will update the dashboard daily (between 1:00 and 2:00 p.m.), pending the receipt of data from key sources, including the Washington State Department of Health. The dashboard includes a timestamp of the most recent updates.
Due to delays in reporting data from various laboratories, case totals are commonly reported two or three days later. While a graph showing the trend of COVID-19 cases may appear to be flat or declining, King County notes that we must assume that this does not actually represent a decline.
Hover over key data points to reveal important information. A mobile version is also available.
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Walk Safely – Tips for Pedestrians, Bikers, and Drivers
Share Walk Safely – Tips for Pedestrians, Bikers, and Drivers on Facebook Share Walk Safely – Tips for Pedestrians, Bikers, and Drivers on Twitter Share Walk Safely – Tips for Pedestrians, Bikers, and Drivers on Linkedin Email Walk Safely – Tips for Pedestrians, Bikers, and Drivers linkThe pandemic got a lot of us outside, let's make sure we're all safe as the days grow shorter.
With the closure of gyms, malls, and just about everything else in the county, many of us took up walking for exercise or just to pass the time. As we head into the darker, winter months, it is more important than ever to be seen and stay safe while out on the road.
Here are a few safety tips as you continue to rack up those miles:
- Be predictable. Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Walk on sidewalks. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible.
- Keep alert at all times; don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
- Whenever possible, cross at crosswalks or intersections, where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
- No crosswalk or intersection? Locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen.
- Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials and/or use a flashlight at night.
- Take special care crossing driveways.
Drivers, don’t think we’ve forgotten about you. Here are some helpful things to do as you get behind the wheel:
- Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.
- Use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions, such as nighttime or bad weather.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the cross-walk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk.
- Follow the speed limit, especially around people on the street.
- Be extra cautious when backing up—pedestrians can move into your path.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Have you taken up biking? We have tips for you too!
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FAQs About Face Coverings and Enforcement in Businesses
Share FAQs About Face Coverings and Enforcement in Businesses on Facebook Share FAQs About Face Coverings and Enforcement in Businesses on Twitter Share FAQs About Face Coverings and Enforcement in Businesses on Linkedin Email FAQs About Face Coverings and Enforcement in Businesses linkThe Governor's Order is in effect, requiring businesses not to serve unmasked patrons (with limited exemptions). Learn more about face coverings in general from this King County FAQ, and about enforcement in businesses from the State's FAQ.
If you think a business is not complying with Safe Start guidance, submit an anonymous report. Background: Guidelines for enforcement for the Governor's order.
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King County Moves to Phase 2 Beginning February 1
Share King County Moves to Phase 2 Beginning February 1 on Facebook Share King County Moves to Phase 2 Beginning February 1 on Twitter Share King County Moves to Phase 2 Beginning February 1 on Linkedin Email King County Moves to Phase 2 Beginning February 1 linkRoadmap to Recovery update; Two regions to move into Phase 2
On Thursday, January 28, the DOH announced that based on Governor Jay Inslee’s updated Roadmap to Recovery phased reopening plan, the Puget Sound and West regions will move into Phase 2 beginning Monday, February 1.
In Phase 2, restrictions on most activities are relaxed, slightly. Restaurants (and bars with food) can have indoor dining at 25% capacity, and gyms/fitness also can operate at 25% capacity (appointments not necessarily required). See the image below for more details.
As Governor Inslee just announced, regions now need to meet any three of the four metrics outlined in the Roadmap to Recovery plan in order to move into Phase 2. The four metrics have not changed and include:
- Trend in 14-day rate of new COVID-19 cases per 100k population
- Trend in 14-day rate of new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100k population
- Average 7-day percent occupancy of ICU staffed beds
- 7-day percent positive of COVID-19 tests
In addition, DOH will calculate regions’ metric to determine phase status every two weeks from now on.
DOH is releasing region status today to coincide with the Governor’s announcements. Going forward, DOH will reassess the metrics for all eight (8) regions every two weeks and announce any phase adjustments on Fridays. The next announcement will be Friday, February 12, 2021.
The following regions will remain in in Phase 1:
- East
- South Central
- North Central
- Northwest
- Southwest
- North
Phase changes will go into effect on Monday, February 1, 2021 and remain in effect until Monday, February 15, 2021.
For more information visit the Roadmap to Recovery dashboard.
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News for the Week of January 18
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State Opens COVID Vaccinations To Phase 1b. On Monday, January 18, Gov. Inslee announced that all older adults in Washington state over the age of 65 are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. People 50 and older who live in multigenerational households are also eligible if they meet certain conditions. Learn more about the expanded vaccine eligibility guidance. Collectively, these groups are known as Phase 1b - Tier 1. Due to limited supply of vaccine, not everyone will be able to access a vaccine right away, and you may experience delays due to the very high volume of inquiries. Access will improve as the supply chain widens and providers across King County receive more doses. Mobile vaccination teams are also reaching out to highest risk older adults, including those residing in adult family homes. Larger retirement homes and assisted living facilities already have vaccination programs underway.
How to Get Vaccinated
At this time, Public Health – Seattle & King County (PHSKC) recommends the following options if you believe you are currently eligible.
- Call your doctor’s office or health care provider
- Or use Washington State’s new online Phase Finder tool
- Or call the State COVID Hotline at 1-800-525-0127
COVID-19 in Washington State: One Year Later. The first case of COVID-19 was announced in Washington state on January 21, 2020. This was the first time anyone had detected novel coronavirus in the United States. This day marked the beginning of our state’s response. Click here for the full article.
Inslee extends 26 proclamations relating to COVID-19. Gov. Jay Inslee issued extensions of 26 emergency proclamations, which were extended by the Legislature on January 15 with the passage of Senate Concurrent Resolution 8402. Read more here.
Job search requirements continue to be suspended during pandemic. The State Legislature voted to continue the suspension of job search requirements until the State of Emergency is withdrawn. This means you can continue to answer “no” to the job search question on your weekly claim until the suspension is lifted. Read more here.
Video Update from the City Manager. On January 19, the City Council meeting, City Manager Jessi Bon provided an update to the Council and community. Watch the update here.
January 22 Situation Report. For highlights and information from the 46th week of the City’s response to the pandemic click here. Note: The City is moving to one SitRep a month beginning in February. The January 22 report will be the final SitRep for January. Next report will be published on February 5.
Vaccine News
When is it your turn to get the COVID-19 vaccine? The COVID-19 vaccine is here. The vaccine is one of the best strategies we have now to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the virus that defined 2020. Eventually every adult and teen in Washington who wants the vaccine will be able to get one this year, but, for now, there is a limited supply. Read more about the vaccine roll out here.
King County COVID-19 Vaccine Data At-a-Glance. Page updated daily here.
Vaccine distribution update from the DOH. On January 13, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) shared key updates on our COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration efforts. Click here for the release.
Washington's new vaccine dashboard will offer new window into progress. The state, in partnership with Microsoft AI for Health, announced a new vaccine data tab now available on the DOH dada dashboard. Check out the latest state-wide data here.
What to Expect After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine. COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. Click here for common side effects and more.
School News
MISD Hybrid In-Person Learning Timeline. MISD welcomed back first graders to in-person learning on Tuesday and kindergarteners began hybrid learning the week of January 4. The MISD hybrid learning schedule has grades 2-3 returning to in-person learning the week of February 8. For more on the schedule visit the Learning Forward page at www.mercerislandschools.org/learningforward.
Updated message from Public Health regarding return to in-person learning. Feelings of fear and uncertainty in response to planning for expanded in-person instruction during the pandemic are very real for many people, and understandable given the unfamiliar and evolving nature of the COVID-19 outbreak. Click here for the full message from Dr. Jeff Duchin.
Updated guidance documents for King County Schools COVID-19 Response Toolkit. Public Health has developed the King County Schools COVID-19 Response Toolkit to support schools as they reopen for in-person instruction. This guidance is intended to supplement State guidance and resources with local contact tracing and COVID-19 response guidance. Click here for more info.
COVID-19 Reporting
Latest numbers. The Department of Health reported a total of 283,188 confirmed cases as of 11:59 pm on January 20. There have been 4,065 COVID-19 deaths in Washington. In Mercer Island, there have been 421 positive cases reported as of January 21. For that latest city and county data, click here.
City Facilities and Programs
Open City Facilities
Closed City Facilities
- City Hall
- Luther Burbank Admin Building
- Fire Stations
Events and Programs
- Drop-in Sports at MICEC
- Community Emergency Response Training (CERT)
- Summer Camps
- Summer Celebration!
- National Night Out
- Visit the City's event calendar for more events!
Public Meetings
The City Council is meeting in a hybrid format (in-person and virtually). Visit the Council Connects page to learn how to participate. Boards and Commissions continue to meet virtually.
