State health leaders: It's time to double down on COVID-19 prevention measures SYNDICATED 6 days ago OLYMPIA, Wash. -- COVID-19 case counts are climbing once again in Washington state, state health leaders said Thursday during the Washington State Department of Health's weekly media briefing. "This is not a time to let down your guard," said Washington State Health Secretary Dr. Umair Shah. Shah is pleading with everyone in the state to double down on efforts to help control the spread of COVID-19.