COVID-19 restrictions loosen in Portland area, but Marion and Polk stay in 'extreme risk'

Twelve Oregon counties have improved COVID-19 risk levels, with 10 improving from “extreme risk” for the first time since November.

That includes the tri-county Portland area.

Marion and Polk counties will remain in “extreme risk,” meaning they have the highest level of business and social restrictions to help prevent the virus’ spread, including limiting restaurants to take-out or outdoor dining.

“Thanks to Oregonians who have stepped up and made smart choices, we have made incredible progress in stopping the spread of COVID-19 and saving lives in Oregon,” Gov. Kate Brown said in a news release Tuesday.

“This is welcome news, as we’ll start to see more businesses open up and Oregonians being able to get out a bit more,” she said.

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Brown’s framework uses risk levels based on COVID-19 spread. For at least two weeks, beginning Feb. 12, 14 counties will be considered “extreme risk,” 11 counties will be “high risk,” three counties will be “moderate risk,” and eight will be “lower risk.”

In the Portland area, Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington counties will be considered "high risk."

That means indoor dining will be allowed starting Feb. 12, with reduced occupancy; inside visitation will be allowed at long-term care facilities; and occupancy limits will be expanded at churches, indoor fitness and entertainment venues. 

More information about county risk levels and activity restrictions is available at https://coronavirus.oregon.gov/.

Tracy Loew is a reporter at the Statesman Journal. She can be reached at tloew@statesmanjournal.com, 503-399-6779 or on Twitter at @Tracy_Loew. Support local journalism by subscribing to the Statesman Journal.