DISCLAIMER

San Benito County

Health & Human Services Agency

Hollister, California

COVID-19 Press Releases

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

 

San Benito County Advances to Orange Tier

 

San Benito County, California - April 6, 2021: Today the State announced that San Benito County has met the requirements to move to the Orange Tier and businesses permitted in the Orange Tier per the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy may expand operations. San Benito County has an adjusted daily new case rate per 100,000 residents of 4.7, thus moving into Orange tier.

 

In the Orange Tier, retail establishments may now operate at full capacity, while restaurants, places of worship, movie theaters and museums may increase indoor operations to 50 percent of capacity. Bars, breweries, and distilleries may resume outdoor operations, wineries may resume indoor operations at 25 percent capacity or 100 people (whichever is fewer), and gyms and fitness centers.

 

Businesses and activities permitted to open under the State’s Orange Tier must continue to comply with the State’s Industry Guidance found here.

 

More information on the California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy here.

 

Businesses and activities permitted to open, with capacity restrictions and modifications can be viewed here

 

The State also announced that on June 15, 2021 all industries across the state can return to usual operations with common-sense risk reduction measures such as masking and vaccinations. See announcement here.

 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.

 

See the full Activity and Business Tiers Chart here

Optum Serve Site to Provide COVID-19 Vaccinations
 
San Benito County, California March 26, 2021: San Benito County Public Health Services is pleased to announce a partnership with OptumServe to deliver COVID-19 vaccines to community members that live and/or work in San Benito County expanding access to the vaccine.
 
The OptumServe site will provide up to 210 vaccines per day with the ability to expand to more days based on vaccine allocation. The site will temporarily operate at Rancho San Justo Middle School, 1201 Rancho Drive, Hollister in the Gymnasium.
 
Below is the clinic schedule:
 
  • Hours of Operation: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
  • Tuesday March 30, 2021 to Thursday April 1, 2021
  • Tuesday April 6, 2021 to Thursday April 8, 2021
  • Sunday April 11, 2021 to Tuesday April 13, 2021
 
The clinic will continue the Sunday to Tuesday schedule moving forward.
 
This clinic is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. No walk-ins will be accepted.  Clinic appointments will be available for registration at www.myturn.ca.gov 48 hours prior to clinic dates.
 
Individuals interested in an appointment at the OptumServe Vaccine site can schedule through the California MyTurn system at www.myturn.ca.gov or for those without internet access or limited computer access, by calling the State MyTurn scheduling hotline at (833) 422-4255. MyTurn is currently offered in 12 languages including Spanish.
 
Additional clinic dates will become available on MyTurn next week. Individuals should continue to check for updated availability or register on MyTurn for new appointment notifications via email or text message.
 
Individuals must meet current State vaccine eligibility criteria to access an appointment.
 
Current vaccination eligibility:
  • Healthcare providers
  • Crisis workers and social workers 
  • Emergency services
  • Education and childcare providers
  • Food and agriculture personnel
  • Public transit personnel
  • Utilities personnel who provide emergency functions
  • Couriers
  • Janitors serving any of the listed sectors
  • Persons living in congregate facilities
  • Persons 65 years and older
  • Persons 16 to 64 years with high-risk medical conditions or disabilities
 
Locally several hospitals, pharmacies and physician practices have been provided doses of the vaccines. These providers’ clinics will soon be available on the MyTurn appointment system. San Benito Public Health Services encourages residents to register for vaccine notifications via MyTurn to be notified of eligibility and when appointments are available.
 
Tips for a Smooth Vaccination Appointment
 
The County wants to work with our residents and workforce to make sure your vaccination appointments is as quick and easy as possible. Whether you are going to a public health site, a vaccination event, a physician office or pharmacy, here are a few tips.
  • Vaccines can only be given with an appointment.
  • Wear a short sleeved shirt to the appointment.
  • Please try not to arrive more than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.
  • Bring an identification that can verify your name and date of birth.
  • It is important for you to wait for 15-30 minutes after receiving a vaccine so you can be observed for any reactions, and for treatment to be provided if needed.
  • Please plan to spend at least an hour total at your appointment.
 
As a reminder the COVID-19 vaccine is free and covered by the State of California for uninsured and undocumented.
 
In addition to MyTurn appointments for COVID-19 vaccination can be made through the Federal Pharmacy Partnership at the following providers:

·Safeway: here

·CVS: here

·Rite Aid: here

·Walgreens here

 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.

 
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168


 
San Benito County – March 26, 2021: San Benito County Public Health Services has identified two variants of concern within the county among three individuals infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
 
Two cases have been identified as the South African variant (B.1.351) in specimens initially collected on March 1, 2021.  These cases were reported to county public health nine days later and were not initially investigated due to protocol cutoff being at day six.  Both cases are from the same household and follow-up case investigation/contact tracing has occurred.
 
The third case was identified as the United Kingdom variant (B.1.1.7) in a specimen collected on March 15, 2021.  The follow-up case investigation/contact tracing has been completed and the case has followed all isolation protocols.
 
New COVID-19 variants have been recently found in neighboring counties, across California and much of the U.S. Some of these variants appear to be at least twice as easy to pass between persons, can cause more severe infection and possibly more deaths. 
 
Dr. David Ghilarducci, San Benito County Interim Health Officer, noted that “the arrival of these variants in the county and state were expected, as they are spreading across the nation and in other countries. Fortunately, all three approved vaccines are effective against these variants. But we are clearly in a race between getting the community vaccinated and the spread of more infectious and possibly more severe coronavirus variants. Everyone should get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. As of April 15th, all adults 16 years and older will be eligible for vaccination.”
 
 
More information here https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/need-to-know.html
 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.

To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.


 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

Two Cases of Coronavirus South African Variant, One Case of UK 
Variant Detected in San Benito County
 
San Benito County – March 26, 2021: San Benito County Public Health Services has identified two variants of concern within the county among three individuals infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
 
Two cases have been identified as the South African variant (B.1.351) in specimens initially collected on March 1, 2021.  These cases were reported to county public health nine days later and were not initially investigated due to protocol cutoff being at day six.  Both cases are from the same household and follow-up case investigation/contact tracing has occurred.
 
The third case was identified as the United Kingdom variant (B.1.1.7) in a specimen collected on March 15, 2021.  The follow-up case investigation/contact tracing has been completed and the case has followed all isolation protocols.
 
New COVID-19 variants have been recently found in neighboring counties, across California and much of the U.S. Some of these variants appear to be at least twice as easy to pass between persons, can cause more severe infection and possibly more deaths. 
 
Dr. David Ghilarducci, San Benito County Interim Health Officer, noted that “the arrival of these variants in the county and state were expected, as they are spreading across the nation and in other countries. Fortunately, all three approved vaccines are effective against these variants. But we are clearly in a race between getting the community vaccinated and the spread of more infectious and possibly more severe coronavirus variants. Everyone should get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. As of April 15th, all adults 16 years and older will be eligible for vaccination.”
 
 
More information here https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/need-to-know.html
 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.

To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.


 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

All San Benito County Educators Have Been Offered COVID-19 Vaccine
 
San Benito County, California March 17, 2021: We are pleased to announce that all teachers and other school employees working in K-12 education in San Benito County have been offered and provided the COVID-19 vaccination as requested.
 
This accomplishment was a collaborative effort between the San Benito County Office of Education, San Benito Public Health Services, local Districts, Charter and Private Schools, and the local vaccine providers.
 
Reopening our schools and the timing of the opening is up to our school districts, and they are working closely with our Health Department to follow all CDC and State guidelines. “We committed that we would vaccinate our teachers and education staff, and I’m proud we were able to do so.” Tracey Belton San Benito County Health and Human Services Director
 
"Getting our children back into schools is an important milestone in our recovery. Now that teachers and staff have been offered vaccine, we urge all schools in the county to resume in-person instruction." San Benito County Health Officer David Ghilarducci,
 
San Benito County continues to make progress on all vaccinations. To date, nearly 14,458 vaccine doses have been administered, and more appointments are being filled each day. Those who are interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should Sign up at myturn.ca.gov or call (833) 422-4255 to find out if it’s your turn. If you’re eligible, you can schedule an appointment, or register to be notified when one is available. In addition, several local pharmacies including CVS, Rite Aid, Safeway, and Walgreens, who are part of the Federal Pharmacy Partnership are currently scheduling COVID-19 vaccine appointments.
 
For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.
 
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County, California March 12, 2021: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced today that California has met the first vaccine equity goal of at least 2 million doses administered in the Vaccine Equity Quartile. Reaching this benchmark allows for tier adjustments for several counties in California, including San Benito County. San Benito County will advance to the Red Tier (Substantial) on Sunday, March 14, 2021.
With advancement to the Red Tier the following changes are effective, Sunday, March 14:

  • Restaurants: Indoor dining at maximum 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
  • Retail stores at maximum 50% capacity.
  • Gyms and fitness centers including studios like dance, cheerleading, yoga, martial arts: at maximum 10% capacity.
  • Movie theaters at maximum 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
  • Zoos, museums, and aquariums at 25% maximum indoor capacity.
  • Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries where no meal provided*: Outdoor only with modifications, reservations, 90-minute time limit, seating/tables only, limited hours (services for on-site consumption closed by 8 pm)


*Please also note that the updated sector guidance table was posted on 3/11 with changes to wineries/breweries/distilleries take effect on Saturday 3/13 (as noted on the attached chart).

Although more activities are allowed under the Red Tier, the County Health Officer urges everyone to remember that indoor activities are much higher risk than outdoor activities and to take every step to reduce your risk as much as possible. To keep yourself, your family, your friends and neighbors, and our broader community safe, follow these core principles:

  • Stay outdoors. Outdoor activities are far safer than indoor ones. 
  • Stay masked. Consistent use of face coverings both indoors and outdoors, especially double-masking, is very effective at preventing spread of the coronavirus.
  • Maintain at least 6-foot distance from others. Social distancing from those who do not live with you is effective at keeping the coronavirus away.
  • Avoid crowds. The fewer people you encounter and the fewer interactions you have, the lower the chance the virus will spread.
  • Get vaccinated when it is your turn. All federally approved vaccines work well and will help keep you, your family, and your friends safe.

 
For more information about COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/ To register for the State’s MyTurn vaccine registration and notification system please visit https://myturn.ca.gov/. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information.
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County Transitions to MyTurn for Statewide
Registration for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

 
San Benito County, California March 9, 2021: As part of a statewide directive, San Benito County has transitioned away from its online COVID-19 vaccination interest portal and will be utilizing the State’s MyTurn system.  The MyTurn website allows all Californians to register for an email or text notification to inform them when they are eligible for vaccination.  Soon, the system will also allow residents, if eligible, to book an appointment for a vaccination.
 
The State of California first launched the MyTurn registration system through pilots with Los Angeles and San Diego counties. The State is now in the process of expanding the usage to all county and healthcare vaccine providers. MyTurn allows vaccine providers to input data immediately, giving a real-time look at the number of shots administered regionally and statewide while also allowing for a centralized notification system.

On January 14, 2021, San Benito County first launched its COVID-19 vaccine interest form prior to any state platform for vaccine distribution. Since that time, approximately 13,500 residents have registered on the county’s interest portal. Due to the inability to migrate the data into the State’s system, San Benito County residents who have previously registered on the portal via the County website will need to register on MyTurn.  All individuals registered on the interest portal will be notified via email with a direct link to the MyTurn registration on March 10, 2021. The transition to MyTurn will not negatively impact their ability to receive the vaccine.

The MyTurn website is currently available in English and Spanish, and an additional six languages. Californians who do not have internet access can call 1-833-422-4255 to connect with an operator directly in English or Spanish and 254 additional languages via a third-party operator.  All residents are encouraged to register with MyTurn at www.myturn.ca.gov.

San Benito County is currently vaccinating Phase 1B Tier 1 including: 65 and older, and workers in the following sectors: Food and Agriculture, Education and Childcare, and Emergency Services.  At this time, vaccine appointments cannot be made in the MyTurn registration system however, MyTurn is expected to switch on this feature soon.

For more information about San Benito County’s COVID-19 vaccine and distribution process, visit www.SBCCOVID19.US. Residents can also call 2-1-1 for resource information. For additional updates, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

** ALL APPOINTMENTS HAVE BEEN BOOKED AND ARE FULL **

San Benito County – March 5, 2021: San Benito County Public Health Services will be conducting a COVID-19 Drive-Through Mass Vaccination Clinic, Sunday March 7, 2021 - by appointment only (full at this time)- at the San Benito County Fairgrounds/Bolado Park.  This mass vaccination clinic will vaccinate 700 individuals in the Phase 1B priority tier which include education and childcare, food and agriculture, emergency services, and those 65 years of age and over. 

“Mass vaccination is a key part of the county’s outreach strategy to ensure social and health equity by delivering lifesaving vaccine to our vulnerable residents most impacted by hospitalization and death from the virus,” stated Dr. David Ghilarducci, San Benito County Health Officer. “Our plan not only optimizes speed, scale, and efficiency, but more importantly, ensures equity for all county residents. We must work together - to be certain that no person in our community is at a disadvantage. At the end of the day, our collective goal should be to vaccinate as many people as quickly as possible, leaving no dose unused and no community member behind, added Tracey Belton, Director of San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency.

San Benito Health and Human Services Agency appreciates and thanks the public for their patience during this vaccine rollout. The distribution of vaccine to county residents and workers is moving as quickly and efficiently as the vaccine supply to San Benito County permits.  Plans are underway to increase mass vaccinations in SBC over the coming weeks and months as vaccine production, volume and supply increase.

Appointments (all appointments are full at this time) are required for this targeted mass vaccination clinic. There are no drive-ups or walk-ups for this mass vaccination clinic and those without an appointment will be denied entry. Vaccination will be available without regard to immigration status, nor will it be asked or recorded. Individuals with appointments will be required to provide a form of identification that identifies their name and date of birth.

For more local COVID-19 information please visit sbccovid19.us. For State of CA Questions and Answers regarding COVID-19 vaccines visit: www.covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/
 
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

San Benito County –San Benito County Public Health Services and the Grower Shipper Association of Central California (GSA) are collaborating with Safeway Pharmacy to administer COVID-19 vaccinations for food and agriculture sector workers that live or work in San Benito County.  While this program initially will be limited due to shortages in vaccine supply, a concerted vaccination effort for these essential workers that provide a consistent supply of food to consumers will begin immediately.

Agricultural employers, interested stakeholders, and individuals who fall under Phase 1B can register through the County’s bilingual vaccine interest portal for vaccinations with service by appointment only.  Vaccinations will be available without regard to immigration status, nor will it be asked or recorded.

“Providing vaccines to essential employees in the agriculture and food sector requires an all hands-on-deck approach, involving both the employer as well as employees to ensure an efficient administration,” says Christopher Valadez, GSA president. “We knew this would take coordination, so we began working with local health departments on vaccination systems a few weeks ago in anticipation of counties moving into Phase 1B.”

To secure vaccine delivery for their employees in San Benito County:
  • When vaccines become available, GSA and Safeway Pharmacy will coordinate the scheduling of vaccine clinics.
  • Phase 1B individuals in the food and agriculture sector who have registered will be contacted, either directly or indirectly (through the employer, where corresponding information is listed), to schedule vaccination appointments. 
San Benito County Public Health Services is also coordinating with the other eligible sectors in Phase 1B, emergency services, education, and childcare workers, to conduct vaccinations for their employees. Public Health will work directly with these sectors to assure efficient delivery of vaccinations. If you live or work in San Benito County and work in the above listed sectors, you can complete the online interest form on the vaccine interest portal.
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County – Effective February 15, 2021, San Benito County will further advance within Phase 1B Tier 1 of COVID-19 vaccinations.  Thus far, the state directed prioritization has been on vaccinating the population of individuals over 75 years old, reflecting that these individuals, when infected with the coronavirus, have the highest number of deaths and hospital admission for severe disease.
 
Although there are still individuals awaiting their vaccine from the above population, sufficient vaccination progress has been made, many appointments have been scheduled, and expanding within the tier is prudent and necessary.
 
In San Benito County, health care providers are positioned and ready to start vaccinating the following in Phase 1B Tier 1:
 
  • Individuals 65 and older
  • Those at risk of exposure at work in the following sectors:
    • Education and childcare
    • Emergency services
    • Food and agriculture
 
Public Health Services is actively working with the above sectors that are located within San Benito County to coordinate vaccination of the eligible workforce.
 
For more information about Phase 1B Tier 1, visit www.covid19.ca.gov/vaccines
 
Vaccine remains in limited supply and there is not enough vaccine to vaccinate everyone in this tier at the same time. As the State allocates vaccine to the County, it is assigned to local health care providers to vaccinate the community.
 
It is imperative to remember that appointments will be made as more vaccine is available. If your physician or pharmacy is providing vaccine, they will contact you to coordinate vaccination. If you are not a patient of one of the physicians or pharmacies that is currently vaccinating, Public Health Services will contact you. Please do not call providers directly but wait for them to contact you. This will allow entities to focus on outreach, scheduling, and vaccination.
 
If you are identified in Phase 1B Tier 1 of the vaccine plan and have not completed the online interest form you can do so here.
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County – January 14, 2021: The San Benito County Public Health Services wants to remind residents of available COVID-19 testing options.
 
Optumserve
Residents can get tested for no-cost for COVID-19 at the Veteran’s Memorial Building, located at 649 San Benito Street in Hollister. Hours for testing will be Sunday through Thursday, 7:00am-7:00pm.
 
Appointments are available by calling 888-634-1123 or going online at https://lhi.care/covidtesting. There will be no medical assessments done at the testing site.
 
Please call your medical provider if you feel unwell or think you have symptoms of illness. 

OptumServe is accepting walk-ins from 1:00pm-3:00pm, Sunday through Thursday until further notice and while supplies last.
 
Hazel Hawkins Hospital
ER COVID-19 TEST SITE:
Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital (HHMH) offers drive through testing at their ER Triage Tent located at 911 Sunset Drive. Testing is by appointment only.  This location will perform testing for individuals who have COVID-19 symptoms and/or have had an exposure to someone with COVID-19.

If symptoms or condition warrant further evaluation, you will be brought into the ER for consultation and/or treatment by an ER physician.
To make an appointment, please call (831) 635-1453.  Individuals will be pre-registered prior to their appointment and will need to provide their insurance card and valid identification at the time of check in.
If you have health insurance, your health plan is required to pay for approved COVID-19 tests, according to the State of California. By providing your insurance information, this allows reimbursement for the cost of the test from your insurance company. However, insurance companies cannot in-turn bill individuals or charge any co-payments for COVID-19 tests. In addition, the hospital will not “balance bill” you for any costs your insurance did not cover.  The test itself is no cost to you.

However, if you require further evaluation or receive care in the Emergency Department, your insurance will be billed accordingly, and a co-pay or deductible may apply.
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County – February 3, 2021: The scarcity of COVID-19 vaccination doses throughout the State of California has led to prioritizing shots for older adults because of the virus’ high mortality rate within that group.

 
San Benito County Public Health Services and collaborating health care partners are coordinating efforts to streamline vaccine distribution and move as quickly as possible to provide shots to the most vulnerable residents, those age 75 & older.
 
“Two-thirds of all COVID-19 deaths in San Benito County are among residents age 75 or older,” said Dr. David Ghilarducci, San Benito County’s Public Health Officer. “A vaccine offered to a resident above age 75 is 300 times more likely to save a life than a vaccine offered to someone under the age of 50.”
 
The state received a smaller supply of vaccine shipments this week. Across all local health care jurisdictions, weekly dose allocations from the State of California – based on a formula designed to ensure fair distribution statewide – have slowed compared to shipments in December and early January. With the current pace of supply, it will take several weeks to offer a first dose to all older adults who would like to be vaccinated.
 
“There is an imbalance of supply, demand and expectation,” said Dr. Ghilarducci. “The demand for vaccine is high, which is good for the long-term health of our community, but the expectation that vaccines will be provided right now far outweighs the number of doses we’ve been given.  The infrastructure for giving the vaccine is ready, we just need the supply.”
 
Limited vaccine supply throughout the state is resulting in a widespread inability to make new appointments. In addition, administering Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccine requires a parallel effort to provide a second dose a few weeks after the first. The need for second doses limits the number of people who can be newly vaccinated each week.
 
To stretch vaccine availability, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its COVID-19 vaccine guidance on January 21 to allow for second dose administration up to six weeks (42 days) after the first dose, if the second dose cannot be scheduled in the recommended timeframe. The CDC states that the data from clinical trials support this range. “Modest delays in the administration of the second dose, if absolutely necessary, would not be expected to decrease the protection conferred by the 2nd dose," the FDA said in a statement.
 
Despite shortfalls with vaccine supply, San Benito County healthcare providers, have vaccinated the majority of Phase 1A; healthcare workers and medical emergency responders. Phase 1A Tiers 1, 2 and 3 are on target for their second dose of the vaccine.
 
As a reminder, individuals who fall under Phase 1B may go to Covid-19 Vaccine Information - San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency (cosb.us) to complete an online COVID-19 vaccination interest form which will add them to a contact list. Individuals will then be informed about where they may obtain a vaccination as the phases and tiers progress. It is not a vaccination appointment; it is a tool to eventually schedule a vaccination appointment.
 
San Benito County residents can learn the latest information about vaccine distribution by going to  sbccovid19.us or www.covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.
# # #
 
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

January 28, 2021 San Benito Health Foundation Under Investigation for Allegations of Inappropriate Vaccine Plan Diversion

 

San Benito County, California January 28, 2021: On January 25th, 2021, San Benito County Public Health Services reported allegations of vaccine plan non-compliance regarding the San Benito County Health Foundation administration of the COVID-19 vaccine to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

 

On January 22nd, 2021, San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency- Public Health Services was made aware of allegations that one local provider, the San Benito Health Foundation, may have failed to follow California’s Vaccination Plan which outlines phases and tiers for the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. Each provider is required to follow the vaccine guidance issued by the CDPH based on the prioritization and equity within the phases and tiers. San Benito County takes this allegation very seriously and it is currently investigating.

 

San Benito County Public Health Services is also evaluating additional action that may be taken by the County. At this time, the County does not know the number of individuals that may have received the vaccine outside of the phase, tier and/or priority of prescribed vaccine administration. San Benito will work in collaboration with CDPH to ensure a full investigation is completed.

 

San Benito County Public Health Services’ goal is for complete transparency to the public it serves and equity for all those seeking the COVID-19 vaccine. The State of California Vaccine Plan exists to insure equality and fairness for all. It is important that all providers adhere to all guidelines of the State of California Vaccine Plan found here: https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.

 

For questions on COVID-19, guidance documents or vaccine plan please visit COVID19.CA.GOV. For local COVID-19 information, please visit www.SBCCOVID19.US.

 

For reports of guidance violations or local ordinance violations please call (831) 636-4113

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David Westrick

Public Information Officer

T: 831-636-4168

Email: SBCPIO@cosb.us

 

#2021-14-PIO

Public Information Officer David Westrick 831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately January 28, 2021

 

San Benito County Public Health Services to Hold Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic for 75+ by Appointment Only

 

San Benito County – January 28, 2021: San Benito County Public Health Services will be conducting a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic for 100 pre-registered residents of San Benito County, ages 75 and over on Friday, January 29, 2021. There is no charge for the vaccine at this clinic and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. This is not a vaccination clinic for the general public but one for our most elderly residents most of whom are 90+.

 

San Benito County can only provide vaccines to individuals in the phases and tiers that California Department of Public Health has permitted the counties to vaccinate in. Currently that is Phase 1b, Tier 1 with ages 75+ prioritized.

 

The oldest residents who registered using the San Benito County COVID-19 Vaccine Portal and who do not have a provider that provides COVID-19 vaccinations were contacted by San Benito County Public Health Services and registered for an appointment by descending age. To date over 1,700 residents age 75+ have completed the online COVID-19 vaccine interest form. If an individual identified themselves as a patient or customer of a pharmacy or physician who currently provides COVID-19 vaccination that provider will make contact to schedule a vaccine appointment.   Public Health Services will continue to vaccinate those 75+ who do not have a pharmacy or physician that provides COVID-19 vaccinations-as vaccines are available.

 

San Benito County is committed to getting COVID-19 vaccines to our residents as soon and as equitably as possible. We’ve added capacity so that as more vaccine supply becomes available, we’ll be able to vaccinate many more residents at additional locations. Although expediency is a priority, these clinics will require unique safety considerations including physical distancing, masks and enhanced sanitation efforts.

 

If you are identified in Phase 1b of the vaccine plan and have not completed the online interest form you can do so here. This portal serves as a tool to inform individuals in San Benito County about when and where they may obtain a vaccine as the phases, tiers, and prioritization progresses.

 

Providers will reach out to you as vaccines and appointments become available. It’s not necessary to email or

call to try to book an appointment until you have been contacted first.

 

For those who need assistance with the interest form or those without internet access please contact 831-636- 4113

 

Local San Benito County COVID-19 information can be found at www.sbccovid19.us.

 

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PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES

351 Tres Pinos Road, Suite A-202 Hollister CA 95023

831-637-5367

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

351 Tres Pinos Road, Suite C-1 Hollister CA 95023

831-636-4035

MEDICAL THERAPY UNIT

761 South Street

Hollister CA 95023

831-637-1989

 

 

State Public Health Officials Lift Regional Stay at Home Order

for All Regions of the State

Effective Immediately

San Benito County – January 25, 2021: San Benito County Public Health was notified that the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) ended the Regional Stay at Home Order, lifting the order for all regions statewide immediately, including the San Joaquin Valley region, which San Benito County was assigned to late last year. The Four-week ICU capacity projections for the San Joaquin valley region is above 15%, the threshold that allows regions to exit the order.

San Benito County will return to the Purple or widespread (most restrictive) tier of the Blue Print for a Safer Economy of California’s colored coded tier system. Services and activities, such as outdoor dining and personal services, may resume immediately with required modifications. See the county map to find the status of activities open in each county. Businesses must continue to follow industry specific guidance and any sector specific tier restrictions.

While there are positive signs that the virus is spreading at a slower rate across the state, San Benito County still reports high case rates as well as deaths among its residents which reminds us that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is still critical that the community continues to wear face coverings when outside the home, maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet, wash hands frequently, avoid gatherings and mixing with other households, follow all state and local health department guidance and get the vaccine when it’s their turn.

Understand which activities and businesses are open in the four tiers (PDF)

Reopen your business or facility safely with industry guidance to reduce the risk here

Local San Benito County COVID-19 information can be found at www.sbccovid19.us

 

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

January 25, 2021

*UPDATED*
 
San Benito County Anticipates Advancing to Phase 1B, Tier 1 the Week of January 25, 2021
 
 
San Benito County – January 22, 2021: San Benito County has vaccinated a majority of individuals identified in Phase 1A, Tiers 1-3  which permits the county to advance to Phase 1B, Tier 1 of California’s vaccination plan.  During the week of January 25, 2021, when the county receives a very limited supply of vaccine, the county will advance to Phase 1B, Tier 1.  Phase1B, Tier 1 is defined as follows:
 
Phase 1B, Tier 1:
  • Individuals 65 and older
  • Those at risk of exposure at work in the following sectors:
    • Education and childcare
    • Emergency services
    • Food and agriculture
 
Further direction from California Department of Public Health (CDPH) states all providers should:
  1. Continue vaccinating all persons in Phase 1A 
  2. Begin vaccinating persons 65 years of age or older.  Based on available vaccine supply, prioritize and target outreach efforts as follows:
  • Age-persons 75 years or older prioritized due to increased risk of mortality and other severe disease
  • Occupational risk exposure-individuals prioritized who work in sectors with high occupational exposure as listed in Phase 1B, Tier 1
  • Residence in vulnerable communities-as determined by the California Healthy Places Index or comparable local health department knowledge, to address equity and communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic
 
Currently CDPH determines and allocates COVID-19 vaccine doses to each county. San Benito County Public Health Services sub-allocates doses to COVID-19-State-approved CalVax vaccine providers within the county.  To date this has included San Benito County Public Health Services, Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital and San Benito Health Foundation for Phase 1A vaccinations.  Additional providers are currently onboarding to the CalVax system which allows them to receive sub-allocations of vaccine as we move to Phase 1B. A limited supply of vaccine has been allocated by CDPH to San Benito County and will be received in the county next week. Therefore, the following newly approved providers will be sub-allocated vaccine next week; Lucky’s Pharmacy, Dr. Martin Bress, and Primary Care Associates.  This limited supply is prioritized for Phase 1B, Tier 1, age 75 and older.
 
Approved vaccine providers (physicians, pharmacy or clinics) above will contact their patients who meet prioritization criteria.  If you are not a patient of one of the physicians, pharmacy or clinics, Public Health Services will contact you and coordinate vaccination.  Please do not call these providers directly but wait for them to contact you. This will allow the provider to focus on outreach, scheduling, and vaccination. It is imperative to remember that appointments will be made as more vaccine and providers become available.

Providers that wish to receive vaccine to administer to health care workers and to patients must register to receive vaccine by enrolling in the CDPH CalVax system. Additional instructions may be found at https://eziz.org/covid/enrollment/.
 
San Benito County receives limited vaccine doses.  Please be patient as the County advances through the phases and tiers. For questions regarding COVID-19 or vaccines call the San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline at 831-636-4113 or visit State of CA Vaccine page.  
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

Local vaccine partners have paused usage of the Moderna lot per CDPH-no reactions reported locally

 

San Benito County: On January 17, 2021, The California Department of Public Health released a statement on the Moderna COVID -
19 Vaccine, Lot 041L20A. In a statement the California State Epidemiologist Dr. Erica S. Pan said; "Our goal is to provide the COVID vaccine sa fely, swiftly and equitably," said Dr. Pan. "A higher-than- usual number of possible allergic reactions were reported with a specific lot of Moderna vaccine administered at one community vaccination clinic. Fewer than 10 individuals required medical attention over the span of 24 hours.
Out of an extreme abundance of caution and also recognizing the extremely limited supply of vaccine, we are recommending that providers use other available vaccine inventory and pause the administration of vaccines from Modern a Lot 041L20A until the investigation by the CDC, FDA, Moderna and the state is complete. We will provide an update as we learn more." San Benito County Public Health Services and the San Benito Health Foundation both received Moderna's COVID-19 Vaccine Lot 041L20A.
 
San Benito County Health Foundation reported they received 300 doses and has vaccinated 250 individuals with the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Lot 051L20A.
 
According to San Benito Health Foundation no adverse reactions were reported during the 15-minute observation period by the Health Foundation. The Health Foundation has paused use of remaining doses from this lot.
The San Benito County Department of Public Health received 400 doses and has vaccinated 100 individuals. No adverse reactions were reported during the 15-minute observation period by Public Health. San Benito County Department of Public Health has also paused doses from this lot of vaccine. Hazel Hawkins Hospital reported they
did not receive any doses from this lot.
 
The public is encouraged to report any adverse reactions to V-safe and contact the provider of the immunization. V-safe is a smartphone- based tool that uses text messaging and web surveys to provide personalized health check-ins after you receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Through v-safe, you can quickly tell CDC if you have any side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Depending on your answers, someone from CDC may call to check on you and get more information.

Ordinance is effective immediately and is applicable County wide
 
San Benito County: On January 15, 2021 at a Special Meeting the San Benito County Board of Supervisors by a 4/5th vote adopted a proposed COVID-19 Administrative Penalty Ordinance which is effective immediately. 
 
The ordinance was recommended by an Ad Hoc Committee assigned by Board of Supervisors Chair, Mark Medina at the last regular board meeting on January 12, 2021.
 
Ad Hoc committee members, Supervisor Kollin Kosmicki and Supervisor Bob Tiffany recommended the conditions contained in the ordinance as a direct response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, local hospital icu capacity, and the drastic increase in deaths of San Benito County residents.
 
This ordinance coincides with all orders of the State Public Health Officer, state guidance documents issued for businesses and activities that have been adopted or approved by the County Health Officer, as well as any state guidance and directives posted on www.covid19.ca.gov including the California Department of Public Health Guidance for Face Coverings.
 
Prior to the use of any enforcement measures, efforts will focus on providing education, resources and/or guidance to that business or organization on compliance. If violations or non-compliance continue, the following enforcement actions may be taken: 
 
Civil Penalties-Each Day a Separate Violation:

  1. first non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $100
  2. second non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $250
  3. civil penalty for a third and any subsequent non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $500
 
Commercial Penalties- Each Day a Separate Violation:
  1. first violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of 1,000
  2. second violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of $2,500
  3. third violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of 5,000
  4. fourth and any subsequent violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of $10,000
 
San Benito County will amend the amount of their current Code Enforcement contractor to adjust for this additional duty.
 
Businesses can find resources, education and guidance by visiting www.covid19.ca.gov. Reports of  any suspected violations of state health guidelines can be made at 831-636-4113 or publichealthreferral@cosb.us.
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

Vaccination Interest Portal is Live
This platform is only for those individuals identified is Phase 1b and is not to schedule an appointment  
 
San Benito County –San Benito County Public Health Services COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Portal is now live. Residents of San Benito County who are identified in Phase 1b Tier 1 and 2 can complete the interest form which will provide Public Health Services the ability to notify those interested about where they may obtain a vaccination as the phase and tiers progress. It is not a vaccination appointment system; it is a tool to eventually schedule a vaccination appointment. COVID-19 vaccines are allocated from CDPH. All counties, including San Benito, are allocated a limited supply of vaccine at this time due to manufacturer limitations. It is uncertain from week to week how much vaccine will be made available to the county.
 
The Vaccination Interest Portal can be found here: https://hhsa.cosb.us/covid-19-vaccine-info/
                - This portal is available in multiple languages and those without internet or computer/smartphone access should contact 831-636-4113 for assistance.
 
Phase 1b:
Tier 1:

  • Individuals 65 and older
  • Those at risk of exposure at work in the following sectors:
    • education,
    • childcare,
    • emergency services
    • food and agriculture.
Tier 2:
Those at risk of exposure at work in the following sectors:
  • transportation and logistics
  • industrial, commercial
  • residential and sheltering facilities and services
  • critical manufacturing
    • Congregate settings with outbreak risk: incarcerated and homeless
To provide the fastest response to public inquires please do not contact The Public Health Services Department. Rather call the COVID-19 Hotline at 831-636-4113. This phone line is monitored regularly and will provide the most expedited response.
 
For additional local COVID-19 Information please visit www.sbccovid19.us
 
State of CA Questions and Answers regarding COVID-19 Vaccines here: www.covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/
 

 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

San Benito County – January 13, 2021: The County is moving swiftly through the COVID-19 vaccination Phase 1A and its tiers. As this phase nears completion, the state has announced that in order to vaccinate those at greatest risk of COVID-19 complications, individuals age 65 and older will be prioritized to receive the vaccine as the demand in Phase 1A subsides.
 
In order to reach the age 65 and older population as more vaccine becomes available, the county is planning to conduct mass vaccination clinics that will vaccinate as many San Benito County residents in Phase 1B as quickly as possible. Although expediency is a priority, these mass vaccination clinics will require unique safety considerations including physical distancing, masks and enhanced sanitation efforts.
 
Simultaneously, while planning and deploying these mass vaccination clinics, San Benito County healthcare providers, including pharmacies, private doctors and clinics are registering with California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to become vaccinators.
 
Today the Governor announced a new State system to inform individuals if they are eligible to receive a vaccine and if not yet eligible, to register for a notification via email or text when eligible. This system will help counties, cities and others run mass vaccination events. This will include a way for eligible members of the public to schedule their vaccination appointments at those events. This new state platform is scheduled for release in the next week. In the interim San Benito County Public Health Services has created an online vaccination interest form for Phase 1b tier 1 and 2 eligible individuals. This interest form will allow those in Phase 1b to complete an online COVID-19 vaccination interest form which will add them to a contact list. Individuals will then be informed about where they may obtain a vaccination as the phases and tiers progress. It is not a vaccination appointment; it is a tool to eventually schedule a vaccination appointment. This webform will be available  January, 14, 2021 and can be access at www.sbccovid19.us.
 
As the county moves towards Phase 1B, vaccine rollout continues to be determined by vaccine and personnel availability. COVID-19 vaccines are allocated from CDPH. All counties, including San Benito, are allocated a limited supply of vaccine at this time due to manufacturer limitations.  It is uncertain from week to week how much vaccine will be made available to the county.
 
CDPH also provides direction to counties as to which phases and tiers of vaccine delivery can be engaged, and which individuals should be vaccinated. Thus far, the focus has been on individuals at elevated risk of infection, or at elevated risk of hospitalization or death if infected. San Benito County can only provide vaccinations to individuals in the phases and tiers that CDPH has directed the counties to vaccinate.
 
For more local COVID-19 Information please visit www.sbccovid19.us
 
State of CA Questions and Answers regarding COVID-19 vaccines here: www.covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

 
San Benito County –AB 685 is a new California law that requires employers to notify employees who may have been exposed to COVID-19 and to report workplace outbreaks to the local health department. A workplace outbreak is defined as 3 or more cases of COVID-19 at a worksite within a 14-day period – the employer is required to report this to their local health department within 48 hours.

 
Additionally, in effect is Cal/OSHA’s emergency regulations requiring employers to protect workers from hazards related to COVID-19.
 
The emergency standards apply to most workers in California not covered by Cal/OSHA’s Aerosol Transmissible Diseases standard. The regulations require that employers implement a site-specific written COVID-19 prevention program to address COVID-19 health hazards, correct unsafe or unhealthy conditions and provide face coverings. When there are multiple COVID-19 infections or outbreaks at the worksite, employers must provide COVID-19 testing and notify public health departments. The regulations also require accurate recordkeeping and reporting of COVID-19 cases.
 
Cal/OSHA has posted FAQs and a one-page fact sheet on the regulation, as well as a model COVID-19 prevention program. Employers are invited to participate in no-cost training webinars held by Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services branch.
 
Cal/OSHA helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Employers and workers who have questions or need assistance with workplace health and safety programs can call Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch at 800-963-9424.
 
Complaints about workplace safety and health hazards can be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices.
 
San Benito County Public Health Services has made available to employers an online reporting portal where employers can report outbreaks. This report is only for businesses and should not be used by the general public to report a business that may have infected workers
 
Additionally, California and the federal government are providing broad assistance to small businesses and employers impacted by COVID-19. Click to LEARN MORE.
 
 

Address/Location
San Benito County
471 4th St
Hollister, CA 95023

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 831-636-4168

David Westrick
San Benito County - Public Information Officer
sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

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San Benito County Rolling Out Vaccine Plan & COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard

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CONTACT INFO:

America’s Job Center of California/EDD: 831-637-5627  

Children and Adult Services: 831-636-4190  

Community Services Workforce and Development: 831-637-9293  

Finance and Administration: 831-636-5180  

Public Assistance: 831-636-4180  

COVID-19 Public Health Hotline: 831-636-4113  

Public Health Services: 831-637-5367

© 2020 SAN BENITO COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Best viewed withGoogle Chrome and Firefox. Our Agency’s website links to Google Translation as a convenience for those who speak/read languages other than English.  Please be aware that no automated or computerized translation tool produces a perfect translation.  The context of the wording may be lost when translated and some translations may lose the intended meaning. Therefore, the San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency cannot guarantee the accuracy of the translated content. 
If any  questions arise concerning the translated version of the website, please refer to the original English version.
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