In this interview (recorded on August 31), Issaquah Highlands resident and Swedish Issaquah’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michele Arnold, uses recent data to update our community on COVID’s local impact. As kids go back to school, her statistically steeped presentation provides a moment of hope during this stressful wave of COVID and the delta variant in King County. There is much good news and encouraging results. According to Dr. Arnold, this wave is “not as scary,” given local high vaccination rates (including more than 90% of the eligible population of the 98029 zip code that includes Issaquah Highlands).
Dr. Arnold also addresses vaccines, boosters, vaccine benefits to young people and pregnant women, and the many misconceptions. Be moved when Dr. Arnold discusses how we can support the medical team and support staff at our local Swedish Issaquah. Her requests cost nothing but will mean everything if you follow through.
Christy Garrard is the Highlands Council executive director and a Dahlia Park resident.
Check out past interviews with Dr. Arnold from March 2021 and January 2021.