PORTLAND, Ore. — Cases of COVID-19 began popping up in the United States in January. The first case in Oregon was reported on Feb. 28.
We've been posting a daily blog to track the changes in Oregon and Southwest Washington as we get them. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE LATEST UPDATES
BY THE NUMBERS
As of Wednesday evening:
- Oregon: 247 deaths, 1,290 hospitalizations, 13,081 cases, 311,111 tests (298,705 negative tests) Latest Oregon numbers
- Washington: 1,421 deaths, 4,829 hospitalizations, 43,046 cases, 733,886 tests (5.9% positive) Latest Washington numbers
- United States: 137,357 deaths, 3,495,537 cases Latest U.S. numbers
- World: 582,743 deaths, 13,504,553 cases Latest global numbers
INTERACTIVE: Oregon coronavirus map
REAL-TIME UPDATES
9 p.m.
- When it comes to getting a test for COVID-19 in Oregon, your best bet is probably through your doctor. But if you don’t have one or don’t want to wait, a few private companies are also offering the test in the Portland area. Learn more
- About 15% of Washington County's population identifies as Latinx but more than half of its COVID-19 cases are in that community. As a result, the county is trying several strategies to reach out to non-English speakers. Learn more
6:15 p.m.
- There are 60 active COVID-19 workplace outbreaks in Oregon as of this week, and eight COVID-19 deaths have been associated workplace outbreaks in the state. Learn more
- A former worker at a construction site in Eastern Oregon claims she was fired after raising concerns over safety measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Learn more
- The coronavirus pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on the Black community. Oregon approved $62 million to provide cash relief to local families and Black-owned small businesses. Learn more
- Clark County, like many areas in Washington, is seeing a rising number of infections. Officials applaud Gov. Jay Inslee pausing further reopening and businesses following the rules, but are frustrated by people gathering in large groups and forgoing face coverings. Learn more
4:25 p.m.
- Health officials reported 282 new COVID-19 cases in Oregon, bringing the state’s known case total to 13,081. Four more deaths were also reported. Oregon's death toll is up to 247. Learn more
2:30 p.m.
- State lawmakers have voted to distribute $50 million in federal relief funds to Oregon arts and culture organizations still struggling amid the coronavirus pandemic. Learn more
- Two Cowlitz County residents have died from COVID-19, the first deaths in the county connected to the virus. Both people were in their 80s and had underlying health conditions. Learn more
12 p.m.
- Amid concerns about spreading COVID indoors, some businesses are hoping new air filtration systems will help keep their clients safe. Learn more
- Portland Japanese Garden announced that two employees tested positive for COVID-19 in unrelated cases. The garden will temporary close for at least a few days "out of an abundance of caution and for deep cleaning of the entire garden campus." Learn more
7:40 a.m.
- Many who avoid wearing masks cite "medical reasons," but doctors question those using it as an inaccurate excuse. Learn more
- In Hood River, several restaurants built parklets, which are similar to decks, where people can sit outside. But the Oregon Department of Transportation said the parklets are technically on Highway 30 and that requires an ODOT permit. Learn more
7:30 a.m.
- Face coverings are required outside in Oregon if people cannot keep a distance of more than 6 feet away from others. Learn more
- Starting today, indoor gatherings of more than 10 people are not allowed in Oregon. The new rule does not apply to businesses. Learn more
INTERACTIVE: Oregon coronavirus data by age group
INTERACTIVE: Oregon COVID-19 Hospitalization Data