The Delta variant of COVID-19 is highly contagious. With local cases rising rapidly, North Central Public Health and MCMC are urging all residents to protect themselves — and one another. Please… wear a mask whenever you’re out in public, such as grocery and retail shopping, practice social distancing, and get your COVID-19 shot if you haven’t already. Right now, all Gorge area hospitals are seeing an influx of patients who require hospitalization due to COVID-19. Getting vaccinated is any easy way to keep yourself, and others, out of the hospital.