COVID-19 outbreaks continue to occur in Yakima County, especially in congregate
living facilities. On October 20, 2021, there were 16 active COVID outbreaks in Yakima County, of
which, five are from assisted living facilities and five are from long term care facilities. The other six
outbreaks are from an addiction treatment center, a jail, a wildfire camp, a homeless shelter, a moving
company and a golf club.
All COVID-19 outbreaks are significant but are especially concerning when in congregate settings
because the virus can spread quickly between individuals who live together. The Yakima Health District
(YHD) continues to work with facilities that have outbreaks to provide education, guidance, and
recommendations to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Sunnyside Assisted Living Facility
On October 15, 2021, the Yakima Health District was notified of individuals who tested positive for
COVID-19 at Sunnyside Assisted Living Facility (907 Ida Belle St, Sunnyside, WA 98944). As of
October 20, there have been five staff members and 29 residents who had tested positive for COVID-19.
The staff has enacted protocols to stop the spread of COVID-19. YHD has recommended that Sunnyside
Assisted Living Facility implement the following:
• Cohort individuals who have had a positive COVID-19 test
• Cohort individuals who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for
COVID-19
• Test residents and staff twice a week
• Continuously monitor residents and staff for symptoms of COVID-19
• Increase PPE usage for staff
• Increase testing for residents and staff
A site visit is scheduled at Sunnyside Assisted Living Facility by the YHD Outbreak Response Team.
YHD will continue to monitor and be in communication with Sunnyside Assisted Living facility.
Importance of Following Public Health Recommendations
These outbreaks serve as a reminder to the community about the importance of reducing community
transmission to decrease the chances of COVID-19 being introduced in congregate settings. As Yakima
County continues to experience high levels of community transmission, it is crucial that all community
members follow public health recommendations to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community:
- Get vaccinated for COVID-19 as soon as possible.
- Wear a mask when in public indoor settings.
- Wear a mask when in crowded outdoor settings.
- Wash hands frequently and sanitize surfaces frequently.
- Practice social distancing.
- Limit gatherings with those outside of your household or, if possible, gather virtually.
- If an individual from a household gets infected with COVID-19, it is critical that the individual
isolates at home away from all other household members.
Additional Information
www.YakimaTesting.org
www.YakimaVaccines.org