Large protests probably will lead to some COVID-19 cases, state health official says

The large protests in Washington state against the type of police use of force that led to George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis probably will lead to additional COVID-19 cases, state Secretary of Health John Wiesman said Tuesday.

“When you just have large groups of people together and we have a pandemic, there is likely to be some kind of infection there. And we know that somewhere between maybe 20-25 percent and 40 percent of folks who have COVID may be asymptomatic — and that can pose a risk as well,” he said at a press briefing.

The state will study epidemiological data to determine if there is any spike of COVID-19 cases associated with the protests, Wiesman said.

He said he was not aware of any cases associated with protests over the past several weeks against Gov. Jay Inslee’s stay-at-home order and partial business closures.

In response to a question from a reporter, Wiesman said outdoor activities are less of a risk for the spread of COVID-19 than those indoors, outdoor activities with fewer people are less risky than ones with large groups, and activities where people are at least 6 feet apart from others are less risky.

“The concerning piece here is when you have lots of people who are close to each other and for any kind of period of time. ... We do know that when people are speaking more loudly or singing, there seems to be more risk from the virus in terms of the droplets,” he said.

Wiesman requested those who are 65 years old or older and those of any age with underlying health conditions to “give careful thought” to taking part in large demonstrations.

He said the state encourages people to avoid large crowds. If people choose to attend protests, they should “do their best” to maintain social distancing, wear a face covering, and practice good hygiene, Wiesman said.

Videos of demonstrations in Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia show many protesters wearing facial coverings, but some without them.

“We understand people’s desire to express their concerns and outrage over what is happening and to stand in solidarity with our people of color and our black people. In these times, there are multiple ways to do that ... that are much less risky than others,” he said.

Wiesman said people can reach out to black friends and other people of color with a message of support, write elected officials about the types of policies and reforms that should be made in the wake of Floyd’s death, and have conversations with family members and children about racism.

On Sunday, Wiesman released a statement about the “violent, senseless death” of Floyd. He said public health must continue to respond and lead with racial equity and social justice.

“Racism is a public health threat that can’t be ignored. And leading with racial equity and social justice requires us to prioritize the health and well-being of historically marginalized and oppressed communities — including Black, Indigenous and People of Color, individuals with disabilities and the LGBTQ+ community, to name a few,” Wiesman said.

This story was originally published June 2, 2020 at 5:37 PM with the headline "Large protests probably will lead to some COVID-19 cases, state health official says."