Tri Cities Reporter

COVID-19 cases in Washington are down since the peak in July but health officials warn that they could spike again this fall if residents let their guards down, the Seattle PI reported.

"We are at a crossroads statewide as people begin to spend more time indoors and some schools move to hybrid or other in-person models," the Department of Health said in a news release, the story said. "Even slight increases in transmission due to these changes, may result in exponential growth. However, if we collectively make small improvements to our behavior and environments, we could decrease transmission enough to allow further K-12 school reopening."

With colder weather and more time spent inside, “we must all take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19,” State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy, told the newspaper.

She advised limiting gatherings inside with people who are not in your household.

“Everyone should wear face coverings and stay at least six feet apart,” she told the Seattle PI. " Opening windows can also improve ventilation, even if it means wearing extra layers to stay warm.”