Surge of coronavirus patients expected as officials marshal emergency supplies, health workers test positive

Expecting a surge of patients suffering from severe cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, state and federal officials are trying to marshal emergency resources and supplies to Washington state.

Meanwhile, hospital systems report that testing of their own employees indicates the virus has infected more than two dozen workers, a sign of further stress on the medical system, and a concern that could constrain its ability to deliver service and respond to the crisis.