145 employees at Costco near Yakima positive for COVID-19

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Health officials say 145 workers have tested positive for COVID-19 at a Costco store near Yakima, but the store remains open while the Yakima Health District investigates. The Yakima Herald-Republic reports infected workers are in quarantine, the store in Union Gap is conducting sitewide testing and more cases are expected to be reported. The heath district said in news release it will continue to monitor the outbreak that started before Christmas, when 68 workers tested positive for the virus. Commissioners issued a statement Tuesday saying they agree with keeping the store open, but sharply criticized Gov. Jay Inslee’s orders meant to slow virus spread, which impact many small businesses, schools and churches.