Whatcom Unified Command receives and distributes thousands of PPE donations
Over 50,000 gloves and 55,000 face masks were collected by Whatcom Unified Command in the last month in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the organization announced.
Between March 8 and April 8, incident commanders collected several thousand pieces of protective personal equipment from several local organizations and community members including:
▪ 50,371 gloves.
▪ 30,675 surgical, procedure masks.
▪ 23,749 N95 respirators.
▪ 17,368 isolation gowns.
▪ 3,927 face shields, eye protection.
▪ 974 respirator cartridges.
▪ 574 half-face respirators.
▪ 410 shoe covers.
▪ 275 bouffant caps.
▪ 31 touchless thermometers.
Sleeping bags and tents, food, tables and personal hygiene items were also donated. The unified command has taken these items and had redistributed them to local healthcare workers and first responders.
Incident Commander Jon Hutchings praised the community’s efforts and willingness to contribute in these times.
“This generosity demonstrates our community’s resiliency, supporting one another and our vital healthcare partners as we all adapt and work to overcome obstacles,” Hutchings said. “With a shared goal of slowing the spread of COVID-19, everyone is doing what they can to ensure that those who need it most get the PPE that can keep them safe.”
Information on donations to Whatcom Unified Command can be found at whatcomcovid.com/donations and information on volunteering can be found at whatcomcovid.com/volunteer..
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWhat you should know about the coronavirus
COVID-19, the new coronavirus, is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2.
The disease is spread through contact between people within six feet of each other, especially through coughing and sneezing that expels respiratory droplets that land in the mouths or noses of people nearby.
Although most of the cases have been mild, the disease is especially dangerous for the elderly and others with weaker immune systems.
Click the drop-down icon in the upper right of this card for more information on symptoms and how to stop its spread.
What you can do
Here’s what you can do to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, according to the Whatcom County Health Department.
▪ Keep six feet between yourself and others when in public.
▪ Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
▪ Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with hands that haven’t been washed.
▪ Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue in the trash and then wash your hands.
▪ Stay home if you feel sick. Avoid others who are sick.
▪ If your symptoms are severe and require medical care, call your doctor first.