The omicron subvariant BA.2 is continuing to gain ground in the U.S., according to Covid-19 tests sequenced over the last two weeks. Helix, a San Diego-based genomics firm, has been watching the BA.2 variant since it first popped up in the U.S. in early January. Although it was initially slow to take hold, Helix now estimates that 50% to 70% of all Covid cases nationwide are BA.
- PUB DATE: 3/22/2022 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Bloomberg

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) arrested a 38-year-old Federal Way man who officers say started several fires in a Belltown apartment building on March 10. Officers said the suspect is a former tenant of the apartment complex. The Seattle Fire Department responded to the fire, located at the Bell Tower in the 2200 block of Frist Avenue, around 2:45 a.
- PUB DATE: 3/22/2022 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KING-TV NBC 5 Seattle

Two local firefighters are being honored for their work ethic and contributions to the community. Chelan County Fire District #1 Chief Brian Brett announced two Firefighter of the Year awards at their recent Appreciation Banquet. Last year’s banquet was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic. Spokesperson Kay McKellar said, “Firefighter Chris Paul was named the 2020 recipient of this honor.
- PUB DATE: 3/22/2022 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KPQ-AM 560 Wenatchee

The number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Washington State have dropped to the point where health leaders say we have reached the turning point where we are just going to have to learn to co-exist with coronavirus. But even though the state and the country may have turned the corner on the pandemic, the reality is that COVID is going to be with us for a long time.
- PUB DATE: 3/22/2022 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KOMO-TV ABC 4 Seattle

The Spokane Valley Fire Department received a report Monday night about a large amount of smoke coming from a vacant house from passersby. While no flames were visible, SVFD sent a full response. Once on scene, crews confirmed smoke was showing from all roof vents of the building. A hose line was brought in by firefighters entering the structure to locate and extinguish any fire, while additional crews worked to confirm no occupants were inside.
- PUB DATE: 3/21/2022 7:56:00 PM - SOURCE: KHQ-TV NBC 6 Spokane