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May - Covid-19
State Officials Announce Latest COVID-19 Facts
Contact: CDPHpress@cdph.ca.gov
SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health today announced the most recent statistics on COVID-19. California now has 110,583 confirmed cases and 4,213 deaths.
Testing in California
As testing capacity continues to increase across the state, the California Department of Public Health is working to expand access to COVID-19 testing. Testing should be used for medical evaluation of persons with symptoms of COVID-19 as well as for efforts by public health agencies and essential employers to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19. Individuals prioritized for testing include:
- Hospitalized patients
- Symptomatic and asymptomatic healthcare workers, first responders, and other social service employees
- Symptomatic individuals age 65 and older or symptomatic individuals of any age with chronic medical conditions that increase the risk of severe COVID-19 illness
- Individuals who are tested as part of disease control efforts in high-risk settings
- Asymptomatic residents and employees of congregate living facilities when needed to prevent disease transmission
- Symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in essential occupations such as grocery store and food supply workers, utility workers and public employees
- Other individuals with symptoms consistent with COVID-19
As of May 30, there have been 1,944,848 tests conducted in California and reported to the California Department of Public Health. This represents an increase of 56,253 tests over the prior 24-hour reporting period. These numbers include data from commercial, private and academic labs, including Quest, LabCorp, Kaiser, University of California and Stanford, and the 25 state and county health labs currently testing. The Department is now reporting all tests reported in California, rather than the total number of individuals tested.
Data Portal
The state has launched a user-friendly data portal at COVID-19 Statewide Update that tracks COVID-19 cases statewide and by county, gender, age and ethnicity. The portal also outlines statewide hospitalizations and testing efforts. The data presented on the portal is updated daily and will include additional information as it is available.
Racial Demographics – A More Complete Picture
The California Department of Public Health is committed to health equity and collecting more detailed racial and ethnic data that will provide additional understanding for determining future action. Health outcomes are affected by forces including structural racism, poverty and the disproportionate prevalence of underlying conditions such as asthma and heart disease among Latinos and African American Californians. Only by looking at the full picture can we understand how to ensure the best outcomes for all Californians.
The differences in health outcomes related to COVID-19 are most stark in COVID-19 deaths. We have nearly complete data on race and ethnicity for COVID-19 deaths, and we are seeing the following trends. Overall, for adults 18 and older, Latinos, African Americans and Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are dying at disproportionately higher levels. The proportion of COVID-19 deaths in African Americans is about double their population representation across all adult age categories. For Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, overall numbers are low, but about three-fold difference between the proportion of COVID-19 deaths and their population representation. More males are dying from COVID-19 than females, in line with national trends. More information is available at COVID-19 Race and Ethnicity Data.
Health Care Worker Infection Rates
As of May 30, local health departments have reported 10,033 confirmed positive cases in health care workers and 59 deaths statewide.
Your Actions Save Lives
Every person has a role to play. Protecting yourself and your family comes down to common sense:
- Staying home except for essential needs/activities following local and state public health guidelines when patronizing approved businesses. To the extent that such sectors are re-opened, Californians may leave their homes to work at, patronize, or otherwise engage with those businesses, establishments or activities.
- Practicing social distancing.
- Wearing a cloth face mask when out in public.
- Washing hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds.
- Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Covering a cough or sneeze with your sleeve, or disposable tissue. Wash your hands afterward.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Staying away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.
- Following guidance from public health officials.
What to Do if You Think You’re Sick
Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough or shortness of breath), call your health care provider before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken. More than 85 community testing sites also offer free, confidential testing: Find a COVID-19 Testing Site.
For more information about what Californians can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19, visit Coronavirus (COVID-19) in California.
California continues to issue guidance on preparing and protecting California from COVID-19. Consolidated guidance is available on the California Department of Public Health’s Guidance web page.
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Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order on Actions in Response to COVID-19
SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order extending authorization for local governments to halt evictions for renters impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, through July 28.
The order also addresses a variety of issues in response to the pandemic, by extending the waiver permitting the Department of Motor Vehicles to allow for mail-in renewals of driver’s licenses and identification cards, and waiving certain programmatic and administrative requirements that restrict child care and afterschool programs from serving children of essential infrastructure workers.
In addition, the order allows individuals enrolled in teacher preparation programs during the 2019-20 school year to obtain their preliminary credential without a teaching performance assessment, if the individual was unable to complete that requirement due to a COVID-19 school closure. Under the order, individuals otherwise eligible to obtain certain teaching or education specialist credentials or enroll in teacher preparation programs are permitted to do so without passing certain assessments, for which testing was suspended due to the statewide stay-at-home order.
The order includes provisions requiring the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to waive certain regulations governing administration of Emergency Services Grant funding received under the CARES Act, develop alternative streamlined procedures, and implement reasonable accommodations for HCD-funded projects that have been negatively affected by the pandemic, to help ensure project feasibility. The order also suspends statutory set-asides for economic development and housing for Community Development Block Grant program funding received under the CARES Act.
The text of the Governor’s executive order can be found here and a copy can be found here.
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Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom Announce New and Expanded Support for Victims of Domestic Violence
State expanding capacity for Californians to text 911 for emergency services – a critical tool for domestic violence victims. 75% of California now covered
New public and private funding for organizations addressing domestic violence and the role of women in rebuilding our economy
Partnerships with private sector to support survivors fleeing violence
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today announced a series of new initiatives to support victims of domestic violence amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, including $5 million in state funding, a new partnership to secure private funding with $3 million in seed funding, an executive order to help ease the financial strain on domestic violence service providers, and new private sector partnerships to support survivors fleeing violence.
“Text 911 is a critical tool that will help keep all Californians safe, including victims of domestic violence,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “These initiatives and additional funding will provide much-needed support to those whose homes are not the safe place they should be.”
“We must continue to look at the impacts of COVID-19 through a gendered lens, including the tragic increase in domestic violence incidents since the crisis began,” said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “I am proud that California is stepping up to support all victims and survivors, and we must continue to do more to end violence against women, and domestic violence more broadly.”
Crisis hotlines, women’s shelters, and public safety officers are reporting a higher number of calls and reports of domestic violence across California since the COVID-19 outbreak and the issuance of the stay-at-home orders.
Between February 24 and May 19, there were a total of 8,371 calls to the National Domestic Violence Hotline from California. Out of those calls, between March 16 and May 19, 1,027 were specifically related to COVID-19. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, California is in the top percentile of COVID-related calls in the nation.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence should call the state’s 24-hour hotline (800-799-7233) or the national hotline (800-799-SAFE).
Today, the Governor announced the following new initiatives:
Text to 911:
Cal OES’ Public Safety Communications branch has rolled out the “text-to-911” capability throughout the state, allowing individuals to text ‘911’ for emergency services. As of today, 75 percent of California’s population can actively send texts to 911, including almost every major metropolitan area.
In addition, Cal OES is in the midst of enabling “text from 911” capabilities at all public safety answering points in the state. This capability allows 911 dispatchers to text a caller back in the event their call is disconnected. These improved 911 texting solutions benefit victims of domestic violence and other crimes, and were made available through the Governor’s 2019-20 budget.
Additional Funding:
Last week, Governor Newsom signed an executive order to ease financial burdens on domestic violence centers. The order waives a requirement for domestic violence centers to provide a 10 percent match in funds. Senator Susan Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) has worked extensively on domestic violence issues, including introducing legislation relating to this match requirement.
“I want to thank Governor Newsom for collaborating with me to ensure domestic violence victims are not forgotten during these uncertain times,” said Senator Rubio. “Waiving this requirement for shelters provides relief to programs offering essential services to victims in need, and I look forward to working with the Governor on this issue.”
The state is directing $5.3 million in existing Victims of Crime Act funds to three coalitions to support efforts related to the COVID-19 pandemic: (1) $3 million to California Partnership to End Domestic Violence; (2) $1.6 million to California Coalition on Sexual Assault; and (3) $721,337 Children’s Advocacy Centers of California. These coalitions will distribute funds to local victim service providers.
The federal COVID-19 package included $45 million in funding for Family Violence Prevention and Services grants, with $4,154,993 to California.
In addition to the state funding, the Women’s Foundation of California has committed to working with the state to raise private funds that support domestic violence organizations and, in the longer-term, strengthens organizations centering on gender in California’s economic recovery plan. The Foundation’s Relief and Resilience Fund has to date raised $3 million, including seed funding from Blue Shield of California Foundation, and early partnerships with Levi Strauss Foundation and Stuart Foundation. These funds have already been directed to 130 domestic violence shelter organizations caring for survivors and their children facing increased risk of violence as a result of COVID-19 and shelter in place policies. The Women’s Foundation has a goal of raising an additional $42 million by the end of 2020.
“A gender justice approach needs to be at the forefront of our response not only to this current crisis but to the longstanding challenges of inequality that persist in California,” said Surina Khan, Women’s Foundation California CEO. “This first-of-its kind fund will bolster the immediate and direct services needed to provide relief while also advancing the kind of meaningful policy shifts that Women’s Foundation California is known for – policies that support resilience and equity across racial, economic, and gender lines.”
Free Accommodations and Free Transportation:
The state is partnering with the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (CPEDV), Airbnb and Uber to provide free accommodation and transportation to victims of domestic violence.
“Isolation and financial stress pose significant risks for survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Krista Niemczyk, Public Policy Manager at the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence. “Transportation and a safe place to live are two basic needs that lay the foundation for healing. With this package of protections, Governor Newsom, the First Partner, Uber and Airbnb have helped restore survivors’ self-determination.”
Through a new pilot program funded by Airbnb Co-founder, CEO and Head of Community Brian Chesky, Airbnb will provide domestic violence victims in the Sacramento, San Francisco and Los Angeles areas access to no-cost accommodations for up to 30 days. Reservations will be conducted in a manner that protects both the anonymity and privacy of the victim. Airbnb and the Governor’s Office are working collaboratively to explore expanding the pilot program to other California cities
Also in partnership with the state and CPEDV, Uber is providing 3,000 free rides in Los Angeles and San Francisco to transport victims of domestic violence to safety during shelter in place with a plan to offer additional free rides statewide.
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NEWS RELEASE
Riverside County
Contact: EOC media line:
(Monday though Friday during business hours)
951-955-5087
Short-term vacation rentals to resume in Riverside County
Homeowners who rent single occupancy residences for short-term stays may resume operations in Riverside County. Operators should implement safety precautions and disinfectant protocols outlined in the local guidance developed by the Riverside County Economic Recovery Task Force.
“This is another step forward in the reopening process and supports hospitality, a pillar of the Fourth District economy,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “Rental properties can be safe environments for guests to stay in while providing income to families.”
This allowance does not include hotels, motels and inns, which the State of California has prohibited as part of the statewide stay-at-home order. However, in alignment with other Southern Californian counties, short-term vacation rentals at single occupancy homes may resume.
“This guidance will help provide clarity to those short-term vacation rental businesses that are not included in other orders and guidance,” said Vice Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “Business owners should take all steps necessary to ensure the safety for their guests and employees.”
The Riverside County guidance includes the following:
• Rentals allowed in private homes where the guest rents the entire home and does not share any common areas with others. Home-sharing is not allowed.
• No events or group gatherings are permitted until approved by the State of California. Only guests registered for the home should be on premise.
• Complete a deep cleaning after each rental, using products and protocols outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Ensure a 24-hour reservation gap between when a guest departs and a new arrival.
Some cities may have further restrictions regarding short-term vacation rentals. This guidance does not change any restrictions those jurisdictions have put in place.
Read the entire local guidance online here: https://rivcoccsd.org/covidbizhelp.
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Contact:
Jose Arballo Jr. Senior Public Information Specialist
Riverside University Health System – Public Health
Cell: 951.712.3705
Email: jarballojr@ruhealth.org
Cool centers open throughout Riverside County; offer escape from extreme heat
With temperatures expected to remain in the triple digits through portions of Riverside County, cool centers are opening June 1 with modifications to accommodate coronavirus safety guidelines.
The 14 cool centers will be open to the public at no cost. The centers will be available through October as temperatures warrant.
“Cool centers make it possible for residents to escape extreme heat and high temperatures during the summer months, particularly those among the most vulnerable populations, like seniors,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Public Health. “Safety precautions in the time of coronavirus are being implemented to further protect visitors.”
Among the safety guidelines, all visitors and staff at the cooling centers will be asked to wear face coverings and practice social distancing.
High temperatures can be hazardous for many people, especially for the elderly and those with medical conditions. Heat-related injuries such as heatstroke, an illness that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, can strike fast and pose life-threatening consequences.
The cool centers are coordinated by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, in conjunction with Riverside University Health System – Public Health, and are located in schools, senior and community centers. Light refreshments and water will be available at some locations. For a list of cool center locations, visit www.capriverside.org.
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Media line: 951-955-5087 (Monday through Friday during business hours)
Coronavirus drive-up testing site to open at former Sears location in Riverside
A drive-up testing site will be opened Tuesday at the old Sears parking lot in Riverside to replace the testing location at Harvest Christian Fellowship that is closing.
The department store site is located near the intersection of Arlington and Streeter avenues. The church location opened April 1 and its last day of testing will be Saturday. It was one of four county-operated drive up testing locations. There are also four walk-up sites operated by the county at various locations and eight walk-up sites operated by the state.
“We want to thank Harvest Christian for everything they did to support the testing of Riverside County residents,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Public Health. “Thousands of people have been tested there and that could not have happened without the support of the church leadership and local community.”
Testing at the county-run sites is open to anyone, whether they have symptoms or not, and there are no out-of-pocket costs to individuals. Participants will be asked to provide information about their health insurance, but they will not be charged any share of costs or copay, and will be allowed to get tested even if they do not provide the insurance information. You must have an appointment to get tested.
“Testing continues to be an important driver in our public health response, as well as the county’s reopening process,” said Vice Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “Everyone should consider getting tested. It’s free and it helps show that we are a healthy county.”
So far, more than 106,000 Riverside County residents have been tested at the 16 total community test sites, along with screenings at clinics, hospitals, private labs and other locations.
For a complete list of all testing locations and instructions on how to make an appointment, visit www.rivcoph.org/coronavirus/testing.
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NEWS RELEASE
Riverside County
Contact: EOC media line: (Monday though Friday during business hours)
951-955-5087
Coronavirus Patients from Imperial County
Transferred to Riverside County Hospitals
Some Riverside County hospitals have received a jump of coronavirus patients from Imperial County, where there are only two hospitals.
There have been 51 patients transferred from Imperial County hospitals and another 12 from Imperial County who walked into Riverside County hospitals recently, said Bruce Barton, director of the Riverside County Emergency Management Department (EMD). Barton said that the two Imperial County hospitals have reached their capacity of coronavirus patients, so it was decided to transfer them to neighboring counties
“Riverside County and Imperial County have a long history of working together on the Salton Sea, agriculture, education, and we are partners in the fight against this pandemic,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “It is fortunate that we have the hospital space to assist our neighbors in Imperial County. It shows how important these hospital beds are and how we need to keep our hospital space available for surges that could come.”
Barton said the capacity of the county hospital system has been impacted by the Imperial County transfers, but the increase remains within the capacity of the health system. EMD along with hospital, other county and state officials are closely monitoring the situation.
“The goal of the State’s regional distribution plan is to assure these patients receive needed care and are appropriately distributed across Southern California hospitals so that no single County is disproportionately impacted,” said Barton.
Hospitals throughout Riverside County received the Imperial County patients. Other hospitals in neighboring counties have also received patients.
As of Tuesday, there were 193 coronavirus patients in Riverside County, including 63 in ICU. There have been 7,139 confirmed cases and 303 coronavirus deaths in Riverside County.
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contacts: Joint Information Center (Monday – Friday): (951) 955-5087
Brooke Federico (951) 743-0075 Jose Arballo Jr. (951) 712-3705
Barbershops, hair salons can now open in Riverside County
Barbershops and hair salons may now reopen in Riverside County following statewide guidance to allow for haircuts, styling and coloring.
The new guidelines, part of an ongoing acceleration that further opens the state economy, were announced Tuesday, one day after Gov. Newsom relaxed guidelines that allowed for houses of worship to conduct in-house services with some limitations.
“We cannot lose sight of our history and the family members and friends we have lost to coronavirus, or that we may not be out of the first wave of this pandemic,” said Board Chair V. Manuel Perez, Fourth District Supervisor. “There is also a great need to help more people safely return to work, including barbers and hairdressers, who have been among the most impacted financially. Moving forward, we will need to ensure that as a county we do everything possible to take care and protect our families from this pandemic while ensuring that people can also work to take care of their families.”
The state guideline for hair salons and barbershops prescribe that services for these operations must be limited to services that can be provided with both the worker and customer wearing face coverings for the entirety of the service. For example, haircuts, weaves and extensions, braiding, lock maintenance, wig maintenance, hair relaxing treatments, and color services can be provided.
But those services that require touching of the customer’s face, such as facials, eyelash adjustments, eyebrow waxing and threading, are not allowed.
“Hair salons and barber shops are largely small businesses, many of which are owned by Riverside County residents,” said Vice Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “More local businesses will now reopen and more people will be able to get back to work. At the same time, we must continue to take safeguards and precautions to prevent future outbreaks.”
Preventative measures outlined in the state’s guidance include:
• Implement measures to ensure physical distancing of at least six feet between and among workers and customers, except when providing haircutting and other close contact services.
• Provide temperature and/or symptom screenings for all workers at the beginning of their shift and any vendors, contractors, or other workers entering the establishment.
• Encourage workers and customers who are sick or exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 to stay home.
• Screen customers upon arrival and be prepared to cancel or reschedule customers who indicate they have any signs of illness.
• Require workers and customers to use face coverings during the entire haircutting and other close contact hair services.
While the new guidelines are welcomed by many small business owners, health officials are emphasizing that the coronavirus continues to be an issue within the community. They remind residents of the strong recommendations to wear face coverings and maintain social distancing when possible.
Other modifications and measures intended to keep employees, volunteers and members of the community safe are available in the statewide guidance posted on the county’s website at www.rivcoccsd.org/covidbizhelp.
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-508
State approves Riverside County’s readiness to move to accelerated stage 2
More businesses to reopen, including dine-in restaurants and retail stores
The California Department of Public Health approved the county’s request to reopen more businesses, as part of the governor’s accelerated phase two. The county submitted a revised request to move into the next phase on Thursday, May 21 based on the new criteria announced by the state earlier this week.
As part of the state’s accelerated stage two, the following locations can now reopen in Riverside County: destination retail stores, including shopping malls and swap meets; dine-in restaurants; and schools with modifications. Pease note, the local health order prohibiting primary schools for grades K-12 is still in effect until June 19.
“This is a huge success for the county and our local businesses that Riverside County was approved for regional variance by the California Department of Public Health,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “That means that Riverside County is now in the accelerated stage 2.5 in the state’s reopening plan, and we can safely reopen shopping centers and restaurants for dining in, all with modifications. While we are excited to move into stage 2.5, and we look forward to the state allowing more sectors of the economy to open in the coming days and weeks, I emphasize that we can’t let our guard down when it comes to protecting ourselves and our communities from the coronavirus.”
The governor on Monday announced the expansion of the avenues of eligibility for counties to accelerate business reopening in a phased approach. The governor’s announcement follows a letter sent by Riverside County along with other Southern California counties that comprise over a quarter of the state’s population seeking consideration of criteria to make urban counties eligible for regional variances.
“Because of the hard work and sacrifices of the community, we have been able to take positive steps and reduce the impact of the epidemic,” said Vice Chair Karen Spiegel, Riverside County supervisor. “The data demonstrates that we are moving in a positive direction and we want to continue that trend. We look forward to reopening our regional economy in a safe and methodical manner.”
Businesses are encouraged to implement guidelines available on the county’s website at www.RivCoBiz.org for modifications and other measures to keep employees, customers and clients safe. Specific statewide guidance for dine-in restaurants and shopping centers is also available on this site.
Survivors of COVID-19: Donate your plasma
Blood plasma from recovered COVID-19 patients may be able to help sick people get better faster. If you have recovered from COVID-19, your donation could help—consider donating and find a donation center.
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Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order on Actions in Response to COVID-19
Published:
SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order addressing a variety of issues in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The order helps ease the strain on domestic violence service providers by waiving the 10 percent cash or in-kind matching requirements for state grants awarded to these organizations.
The order also waives the deadline to verify grade point average and waives certain certification requirements and selective service registration verification for Cal Grant applicants.
The order suspends programmatic deadlines for entities that receive funding from the Energy Commission for the development and deployment of new technologies that support the state’s clean energy and decarbonization goals.
In addition, the order extends the timeframe for local governments to submit claims for reimbursement to the State Controller’s Office.
The text of the Governor’s executive order can be found here and a copy can be found here.
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Governor’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery Urges Congress to Pass Emergency Relief for State & Local Governments
Published:
Top California economic leaders: Federal relief for state and local governments will be critical for restarting our economy, creating consumer confidence and more quickly reopening businesses
SACRAMENTO – Members of Governor Gavin Newsom’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery sent a letter to congressional leaders asking them pass $1 trillion in direct relief for state and local governments – funding that is critical to reopening our economies.
“State, local and tribal governments are critical to our recovery. In the short-term, they must be able to scale-up necessary programs, like contact tracing and testing,” the signers said. “Given budget shortfalls, they are also soon facing impossible decisions – like whether to fund additional safety measures related to COVID-19 that will help businesses reopen more quickly or prevent layoffs of teachers, police officers, firefighters and other first responders.”
The letter, signed by 91 California leaders – including business leaders like Bob Iger and Marc Benioff — outlines the budgetary challenges facing state, local and tribal governments caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Across the country, massive and sudden losses in revenue are making it nearly impossible for state and local governments to fund critical health infrastructure like contact tracing and testing, while still providing critical services like public education and public safety.
“COVID-19 has fundamentally changed how we will manage our businesses and organizations going forward, with the worst of the economic impact likely still to come,” the letter continues. “Reopening our economies is a welcome step forward, but the success of our efforts ultimately relies on building greater confidence among consumers that it is safe to shop and greater certainty for workers that the services they rely on to do their jobs will remain in place. Without that, we will be a re-opened economy in name only.”
The Governor last month convened the Task Force, co-chaired by Governor Newsom’s Chief of Staff Ann O’Leary and philanthropist, environmentalist and businessman Tom Steyer, to chart a path forward on recovery in the wake of COVID-19.
A copy of the Task Force’s letter can be found here.
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-5087
Two new walk-up coronavirus testing sites opened in Riverside County
Riverside County health officials are adding two walk-in testing sites – one in Moreno Valley and the other in Cathedral City -- for those interested in being screened for coronavirus.
Testing at Crossword Christian Church in Moreno Valley and the Cathedral City Public Library started Monday and will continue Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. The church is located at 21401 Box Springs Road, while the library is located at 33520 Date Palm Drive.
These are the first walk-in sites operated by the county; the four others are drive up sites located in Indio, Lake Elsinore, Perris and Riverside.
“As we continue our response to this epidemic, we have refocused our efforts to test as many Riverside County residents as possible,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Riverside County public health. “These two sites and others that are in the planning process will help reach that goal.”
So far, more than 80,000 Riverside County residents have been tested at the county’s four sites, along with screenings at clinics, hospitals, private labs and other locations. There are also eight state-run, walk-in testing sites located throughout Riverside County.
Testing at the county-run sites is open to anyone, whether they have symptoms or not, and there are no out-of-pocket costs to individuals. Participants will be asked to provide information about their health insurance, but they will not be charged any share of costs or copay, and will be allowed to get tested even if they do not provide the insurance information. You must have an appointment to get tested.
To make an appointment at a county-operated site, call 800-945-6171. To make an online appointment at the state-run testing site, click https://lhi.care/covidtesting or those without internet access can call 888-634-1123.
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Riverside CountyNEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-5087
More business for restaurants that join new meal program
Riverside County health officials are looking for restaurants in San Jacinto, Hemet, Perris, Banning, Beaumont and surrounding areas to take part in the “Great Plates Delivered” program aimed at providing meals for at-risk seniors staying home to avoid exposure to coronavirus.
Participating restaurants will provide three meals per day, seven days a week for those 65 and older, including delivery. In turn, the restaurants will receive up to $66 – $16 for breakfast, $17 for lunch, $28 for dinner, and $5 for incidentals – from the county through at least June 10. The program may be extended.
“This program is a win-win for everyone involved,” said Jewel Lee, director of Riverside County Office on Aging. “The seniors are able to access healthy meals while remaining safe at home, and local restaurants are able to earn money during these difficult financial times.”
Restaurants should be able to provide nutritional meals that meet cultural needs, and lunch and dinner must include a piece of fresh fruit or vegetable. Drinks, if included, must be less than 24 calories per 8oz and made of 100 percent fruit juice.
“I am particularly proud that the Great Plates Delivered program was piloted in the Fourth District, with Norma’s Italian Kitchen in Rancho Mirage being the first restaurant in Riverside County to get signed up and deliver their amazing dishes to senior citizens,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “The operation at Norma’s Italian Kitchen is inspiring and shows that this program is helping to save jobs and provide exceptional service to seniors in our community.”
Restaurants are encouraged to provide their own delivery, as that will allow the business to keep more of the funds in-house and better coordinate the delivery to customers. Delivery drivers must pass a background check at the restaurant’s expense. Restaurants may elect to use food delivery programs such as Grubhub, Postmates, DoorDash and Uber Eats.
There is a simple process to join this program: be in good standing with Environmental Health Restaurant Grade and become a vendor with the County of Riverside.
For more information, visit https://www.rcaging.org/COVID-19/Great-PlatesDelivered-Program.
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May 9, 2020
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-5087
Riverside County reverts to state orders
Most local health orders to be rescinded in alignment with governor’s orders
The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 tonight at a special board meeting to direct the rescission of most local health orders to align with the governor’s statewide stay at home order.
Starting tomorrow, face coverings and six feet of social distancing will be strongly recommended whenever practical and within reason. Limitations on short term rentals and golf course operations will be rescinded and in alignment with state orders.
The board also voted to keep local orders in place for primary schools (i.e., grades K-12), and remove local restrictions on higher education and vocational schools.
Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Cameron Kaiser and Director of Emergency Services George Johnson plan to sign the amended school order and the rescission of the remaining three orders tomorrow, May 9.
Tonight’s board action also included adopting a best practices framework to guide the development for reopening Riverside County businesses, a plan that is expected to go before the board on Tuesday, May 12.
The county will continue to provide support to Riverside County cities with questions on how the governor’s orders apply locally.
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Thomas Peterson, Sr. Public Information Specialist
(951) 538 – 6791
tpeterson@ruhealth.org
Riverside County Buildings Illuminated in Lime Green
County joins statewide effort to promote mental health awareness
Riverside County shines a light on mental health stigma reduction and suicide prevention by casting a lime green glow on the County Administrative Center at 4080 Lemon St. in Riverside and the Workforce Development Center at 44-199 Monroe St. in Indio.
Lime green is the official color of mental health awareness.
The buildings were lit May 6 and will continue through May 31. Riverside County joins with other locations in California that are participating in the Lime Green City Lights Activation, an initiative sponsored by Each Mind Matters/SanaMente. The aim of this initiative is to bring a powerful visual image to the effort to end the silence around mental illness and introduce a safe place to start a discussion about mental health.
“Lighting these buildings in lime green shows the bold commitment of Riverside County to promoting understanding and extending compassion to people living with mental health challenges,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, director of Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health. “I hope that everyone who sees these buildings this month will take the opportunity to open a discussion about mental health and learn about resources that are available in this community,” he continued.
Nationwide, 1 in 5 people are living with mental health challenges. Older adults who face the medical and physical health challenges of aging – compounded by loss and isolation – are at higher risk of depression. More than 40 percent of the 8.9 million young adults nationwide with mental illness are not receiving the treatment they need. All of us know and love someone with mental illness.
“I appreciate that Behavioral Health is always there for our community, and especially now,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “We have to proclaim every single day that there is hope. I want to recognize and commend our entire Behavioral Health staff, the nonprofits that advocate for mental health awareness, our Behavioral Health Commission and Desert Region Behavioral Health Advisory Board, and all the families we serve who are an inspiration to us.”
Through the availability of community-based supports, many people are in recovery and live full, productive and rewarding lives. Since 1949, the entire month of May has been recognized as mental health awareness month to promote a greater understanding of mental health and to support the wellness and recovery of those living with mental illness. For more information about mental health resources in Riverside County, visit rcdmh.org.
Anyone needing urgent mental health care should call 2-1-1 or call 951–686–HELP (4357).
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-5087
Environmental Health issues guidance on
shared pools in response to Coronavirus
Riverside County health officials are issuing guidelines for the use and operation of community pools in response to the coronavirus epidemic.
The guidelines were developed by the Department of Environmental Health with input from Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County public health officer, and applies to pools and spas at apartment complexes and those operated by homeowners’ associations.
“While we continue to stay in place, we want residents to benefit from as much safe activity outdoors as possible,” said Board Chair V. Manuel Perez, Fourth District Supervisor. “These guidelines are a sensible way to do that with community swimming pools.”
Health officials emphasized these are guidelines and not requirements for community pool operators.
• Six feet separation should be implemented, and swimmers should limit themselves to lanes.
• No large groups or pool parties. Residents of the same household may swim together.
• Lounge chairs and/or tables should be properly distanced. If they cannot be distanced, they should be secured and stored.
• Residents should wear a cloth face covering when traveling through common areas of the property where it may not be possible to maintain physical distancing, including to and from the pool, barbeque area and shared restrooms.
• Residents should bring hand sanitizer, or it should be provided by pool operator.
• Operators should frequently check shared restrooms to ensure they are stocked with hand soap and paper towels.
• Operators should use scheduled time slots on the busiest days.
• Operators should close the spa or limit use to 1 person or household at a time (post signage).
• Create a written disinfection plan that identifies frequently touched surfaces, a schedule, and designated person to complete disinfection tasks.
• Use an EPA-approved disinfectant on commonly touched surfaces, including but not limited to: gate, latch, tables, chairs, drinking fountain, pool handrails and countertops. In shared restrooms: door handles, light switches, faucets, latches and dispensers.
• Post signage reminding residents to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, cover coughs and sneezes, and to avoid the pool area if they are experiencing symptoms of illness including a fever of 100°F or above, sore throat, runny nose, chills, not feeling well, sneezing, coughing, abdominal pain or diarrhea
Safe water, sanitation and hygiene are essential to protecting human health during disease outbreaks. There is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and spas, however, maintaining good chlorine levels in our community pools may help to prevent its spread.
For more information regarding health and safety requirements for community pools and spas visit: http://www.rivcoeh.org/OurServices/PoolsSpasWaterFeatures
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COVID-19 Testing in Beaumont
Beaumont, CA—On Tuesday, May 5, 2020, Riverside County Public Health announced eight additional coronavirus testing sites throughout the county, one of which will be located in the City of Beaumont. The new sites are being operated by OptumServe, a firm hired by the state to conduct testing, and each location can process up to 132 people daily.
“One of our key initiatives is to test as many people as possible and these new sites, combined with the testing we have already been able to complete through our county-run locations, will provide a good measure of what is happening with the spread of coronavirus,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Riverside University Health System - Public Health.
Beaumont Testing Location
Noble Creek Community Center
390 W. Oak Valley Parkway
Beaumont, Ca 92223
Testing is available at no cost to all residents, including asymptomatic individuals. The Beaumont testing site will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Appointments are required and can be made online by visiting https://lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 888-634-1123. For more information on testing sites located in the County of Riverside, please visit RivCoPH.org
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Riverside County
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Riverside County Joint Information Center
(951) 955-5087
State testing sites to open in Riverside County
Eight new locations will test additional 1,000 people per day
Riverside County residents who want to be tested for coronavirus will be able to choose among eight new testing sites being offered by state health officials starting Wednesday.
The locations, which are spread throughout the county, are in addition to the four drive-up testing sites – Perris, Indio, Riverside and Lake Elsinore – that are operated by Riverside County health officials.
The new sites are being operated by OptumServe, a firm hired by the state to conduct testing, and each location can process up to 132 people daily. The service is free and those wanting to be tested can be asymptomatic, but must have an appointment.
“One of our key initiatives is to test as many people as possible and these new sites, combined with the testing we have already been able to complete through our county-run locations, will provide a good measure of what is happening with the spread of coronavirus,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Riverside University Health System - Public Health.
Appointments can be made online by going to https://lhi.care/covidtesting or those without internet access can call 888-634-1123. Testing is available for everyone, regardless of insurance or immigration status, and is no cost to the resident.
“Testing is a top priority of Riverside County and the State of California, and I am pleased with this incredible partnership with the state to expand testing,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “I am particularly glad we will have testing sites in Desert Hot Springs and Mecca, two communities with high need and essential workers on the front lines. Testing is for everyone, regardless of immigration status, and it is free. I encourage everyone to make an appointment, get tested and help our county and state continue to make progress on this crucial aspect of our coronavirus efforts.”
Riverside County leads the state in testing among other more populous counties, having tested more than two percent of the population. The number of confirmed cases in Riverside County is partly connected to the larger percentage of testing.
The following locations will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. by appointment only:
Mead Valley Community Center
21091 Rider St.
Perris, CA 92570
Nellie Weaver Hall
3737 Crestview
Norco, CA 92860
Moses Schaffer Community Center
21565 Steele Peak
Perris, CA 92570
Mecca Boys and Girls Club
91391 66th Ave
Mecca, CA 92254
The following locations will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.:
Lozano Community Center
12-800 West Arroyo
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
Valle Vista Community Center
43935 E. Acacia Ave.
Hemet, CA 92544
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The City of Banning urges Businesses to Flush Water Lines
The City of Banning would like to encourage businesses to follow federal Centers for Disease Control guidelines and flush water lines before reopening once the COVID-19 shutdown has been lifted.
During the closure, many business buildings have sat idle and water lines most likely have been unused. It is strongly recommended to properly flush these water lines to ensure water quality and safety before business operations commence once again.
Lines should be flushed for at least 10-15 minutes to pull fresh water from the main water distribution system through individual property water lines.
For inquiries or assistance call the Banning Public Works Department (951) 922-3130.
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