All of us at BEST understand how challenging all of this can be while navigating the rest of life with a brain injury. We know because we, like you, are part of this incredible community.

We cannot provide current information for everyone but are committed to ensuring that general guidelines and Washington State requirements, vaccine status, and relevant links are provided to make navigating these confusing times a little easier. We want you to have the information you need to make the best decision for yourself and your family.

If you are a resident of Washington or visiting our state keep in mind that local health officials have the authority to put health orders in place to control and prevent the spread of  COVID-19 within their jurisdiction. These orders may be more strict than our statewide orders. BUT they cannot be less strict than statewide mandates.

Mask Update

Vaccine Update

COVID FAQs

Resources

 

Mask Update

As of 19 April 2022, the WA Department of Health recommends people age five and over wear masks in crowded indoor settings and confined spaces. Though face masks are no longer required in many indoor settings, including public transportation and transportation hubs masks are still an important tool for reducing the transmission of COVID-19. Masks will still be required in some settings, including (but not limited to) medical facilities, long-term care facilities, and prisons.

Private businesses and local governments may still require masks if they choose. Many individuals may want to continue wearing masks for added protection from COVID-19.

Not everyone will be comfortable in groups or indoor places without a mask. Remember, most superheroes wear masks and they are kind to those who don’t.

Wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth is a simple way to protect yourself and others from getting sick. Masks help to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to others.

For more mask information visit the WA Department of Health website. All Washington State COVID-19 resources can be found at the official state website; https://coronavirus.wa.gov/.

Did you know you can get up-to-date information by text? If you live in the state of Washington you can text the word “Coronavirus” to 211-211 and receive the latest information and updates on your cell phone.

If you need someone to talk to about stress due to COVID-19 call Washington Listens at 1-833-681-0211.

To slow the spread of the virus and its variants we still recommend everyone

• Wear a mask when inside public places,
• Keep at least six feet away from others,
• Meet outdoors instead of indoors whenever possible.

If you are interested in more details click here for the Washington Department of Health
Data Dashboard or copy and paste this link into your web browser;
https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/DataDashboard

Click on the image to download a poster you can print and display at home, at work, or at support group meetings. The information is as important today as it was when we first posted it.

 

Vaccine Information

We know many people have gotten vaccinated. But not everyone. We encourage those of you who have yet to be vaccinated to get vaccinated. Vaccinations are available at no cost to you and so are boosters. That’s right! No one should be charging you for a vaccination.

Boosters are available for those who are already vaccinated. Boosters will help you fight off serious illness in the event you get sick with the COVID virus.

If you must go out remember that while mask mandates are ending it is recommended you wear a mask when indoors with others. These recommendations are to protect you as much as they are in place to protect others.

COVID FAQs

Many people have different ideas about what COVID is, whether they will get sick or not, if the vaccine is safe, and much more. We’ve put together a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to answer the most common, and often confusing, questions people have asked us. Visit our COVID FAQ page to read more.

COVID Resources

We have resources and links to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your family. PLUS we have printable downloads. Visit our Resources page for more information.

 

Many support groups want to gather again. The health and safety of all of our precious support group members are of utmost importance to us during the continued spread of the COVID virus. We recommend Wear a mask whenever you gather with others. WA State requires you wear a mask if you are indoors. Physically distance if you plan to attend any in-person meetings. All one-to-one visits should observe the physical distancing, mask, and established hygiene protocols. Remember, caution and care save lives.

 

(This page was last updated 30 May 2022)