COVID-19 Press Releases

10-10-2022 Updated COVID-19 Testing Hours

Public Information Officer Monica Leon October 10, 2022

For Release: Immediately

***PRESS RELEASE***

Updated COVID-19 Testing Hours

San Benito County, CA. Effective October 16, 2022, OptumServe COVID-19 PCR and Rapid Antigen testing and treatment services will be changing their hours of operation in San Benito County.

As COVID-19 test availability to the public increases and the number of active cases decreases in our county, OptumServe has been directed by the California Department of Public Health to change its availability to provide COVID-19 PCR and Rapid Antigen testing in San Benito County.

“Effective October 16^,2022, OptumServe will change their availability at their fixed location at 930 Sunset Drive, Building 2, Suite B, in Hollister from five days a week to three days a week due to decreased demand. The site will continue operating from 7:00am-3:00pm, but will operate on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday,” stated Nic Calvin, Deputy Director for San Benito Public Health Services.

OptumServe will continue to provide COVID-19 testing and treatment with their mobile clinic throughout the county from 10:00am-6:00pm (close 2-3pm for lunch). The mobile locations are listed below.

Wednesday: Brigantino Park at 2073 San Juan Hollister Road in Hollister

Thursday: San Juan School Soccer Field at 100 Nyland Drive in San Juan Bautista

Friday: Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 7290 Airline Highway in Tres Pinos

Saturday Brigantino Park at 2073 San Juan Hollister Road in Hollister

Sunday: Brigantino Park at 2073 San Juan Hollister Road in Hollister

Testing and treatment services through OptumServe in San Benito County are at no cost to the recipient.

For more information on making an appointment for testing, visit https://lhi.care/covidtesting or call 888-634-1123. For COVID-19 or Flu vaccination appointments at the health department, please visit myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255. The consent of a parent or legal guardian may be needed for those under age 18 to receive a vaccination. Visit Vaccinate All 58 to learn more about safe and effective vaccines available for all Californians 6 months of age and older.

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09-23-2022 Bivalent COVID-19 Boosters Most Effective Against Current COVID-19 Variants

Public Information Officer Monica Leon

831-801-0179 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

September 23, 2022

Bivalent COVID-19 Boosters Most Effective Against Current COVID-19 Variants

San Benito County, CA. Earlier this month the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized Pfizer and Modern bivalent vaccine (“two strain”) booster for everyone aged 12+, following completion of their primary series at least two months ago, regardless of vaccine product used.

The bivalent vaccine booster, which are also referred to as “updated booster,” is specifically formulated to protect against infection from the two most prevalent Omicron subvariants, BA.4 and BA.5 and contains the components of the original booster shots.

The Moderna bivalent vaccine is authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals 18 years of age and older and the Pfizer bivalent booster is authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals 12 years of age and older.

“As the virus changes and your immunity naturally decreases over time, you may lose some protection from previous COVID-19 vaccines. Getting the latest booster shot will help increase your protection against severe COVID-19 disease, slow transmission of the virus and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging in our community,” said Dr. David Ghilarducci, Interim Health Officer for the San Benito County.

“As we transition from the summer to fall, we can follow simple health measures now to reduce the potential risk of a COVID-19 surge. COVID-19 is still a dangerous virus. By being fully vaccinated and boosted, especially with the new boosters against the more infectious Omicron subvariants of the virus, we are protecting ourselves and others in our community, especially those at highest risk for severe consequences should they become infected.” said Dr. Ghilarducci. “Staying up to date on your COVID vaccinations continues to be the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

The monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized as booster doses for individuals 12 years of age and older. Staying up to date on vaccination with the recommended boosters remains the best way to prevent hospitalization and death from COVID-19, including for young children.

For available vaccinations with the bivalent booster, check with your pharmacy, provider or by visiting myturn.ca.gov or calling 1-833-422-4255. For more information on COVID-19, visit VaccinateALL58.com. Local San Benito County COVID-19 information can also be found at https://hhsa.cosb.us.

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06-22-2022 19 Vaccines for Young Children Now Available for Children 6 Months Through 5 Years of Age

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 22, 2022
Sam Perez, Public Information Officer
831-637-5367
***PRESS RELEASE*

COVID-19 Vaccines for Young Children Now Available for Children
6 Months Through 5 Years of Age
_____________________________________________________________________________________
San Benito County, CA- San Benito County Public Health Services, along with many pediatric
practices, pharmacies, the Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital and their clinics will be offering
COVID-19 vaccine for all children 6 months through 5 years of age. This expands eligibility for
vaccination to nearly 20 million additional children and means that all Americans ages 6 months
and older are now eligible for vaccination.
Parents and caregivers can now get their children 6 months through 5 years of age vaccinated
with the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines to better protect them from COVID-19. All
children, including children who have already had COVID-19, should get vaccinated.
COVID-19 vaccines have undergone—and will continue to undergo—the most intensive safety
monitoring in U.S. history. Parents and caregivers can play an active role in monitoring the
safety of these vaccines by signing their children up for v-safe – personalized and confidential
health check-ins via text messages and web surveys where they can easily share with CDC how
a child feels after getting a COVID-19 vaccine.
Children in this younger age group can be vaccinated with whichever vaccine is available (either
Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech). Parents can reach out to their doctor, nurse, local pharmacy, or
contact Public Health Services at (831) 637-5367 for additional information on vaccines for
children.
“Together, with science leading the charge, we have taken another important step forward in
our fight against COVID-19. We know parents and caregivers are eager to get their young
children vaccinated, and now they can. I encourage parents and caregivers with questions to
talk to their doctor, nurse, or local pharmacist to learn more about the benefits of vaccinations
and the importance of protecting their children by getting them vaccinated,” stated San Benito
County Interim Health Officer Dr. David Ghilarducci.
Vaccination appointments can be made by visiting myturn.ca.gov or calling 1-833-422-4255.
The consent of a parent or legal guardian may be needed for those under age 18 to receive a
vaccination. Visit Vaccinate All 58 to learn more about safe and effective vaccines available for
all Californians 6 months of age and older.
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05-26-2022 CDC Expands Eligibility for COVID - 19 Booster Shots to Everyone 5 Years of Age and Older

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 26, 2022

Sam Perez, Public Information Officer

831-637-5367

PRESS RELEASE

CDC Expands Eligibility for COVID-19 Booster Shots to Everyone 5 Years of Age and Older San Benito County, CA –Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently expanded eligibility of COVID-19 vaccine booster doses to everyone 5 years of age and older. CDC now recommends that children ages 5 through 11 years should receive a booster shot 5 months after their initial Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination series. Since the pandemic began, more than 15,000 children, ages 5 through 11 have been hospitalized and, tragically, over 180 have died. As cases increase across the country, a booster dose will safely help restore and enhance protection against severe disease. In addition, today CDC is strengthening its recommendation that those 12 and older who are immunocompromised and those 50 and older should receive a second booster dose at least 4 months after their first. Over the past month there has been a significant increase in cases, with a steep and substantial increase in hospitalizations for older Americans. While older Americans have the highest coverage of any age group of first booster doses, most older Americans received their last dose (either their primary series or their first booster dose) many months ago, leaving many who are vulnerable without the protection they may need to prevent severe disease, hospitalization, and death.

Whether it is your first booster, or your second, if you haven’t had a vaccine dose since the beginning of December 2021 and you are eligible, now is the time to get one.

Vaccination with a primary series among the 5–11-year-old age group has lagged other age groups leaving them vulnerable to serious illness. With over 18 million doses administered in this age group, there is assurance that these vaccines are safe and increase the number of children who are protected. San Benito County Public Health Services encourages parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations.

Please check the State’s MyTurn vaccine system at myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255 for COVID-19 vaccine booster appointments and/or walk-in options. In addition, check with your provider or local pharmacy for vaccine availability. For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit VaccinateALL58.com.
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05-19-2022 San Benito County OptumServe COVID-19 Testing Sites Offer Test to Treat Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sam Perez, Public Information Officer

831-637-5367

***PRESS RELEASE***

San Benito County OptumServe COVID-19 Testing Sites Offer

Test to Treat Program

May 19, 2022-San Benito County, CA: The San Benito County OptumServe COVID-19 testing sites now offers test-to-treat options. Test-to-Treat facilities are locations where individuals can get tested for COVID-19, speak to a health care provider about treatment options if they test positive, and leave with those treatments in-hand if they're eligible.

The test-to-treat program will provide access for eligible patients to receive a prescription oral anti-viral pill (Paxlovid or Molnupiravir) at the test site. These “One-Stop Test-to-Treat” sites are available at hundreds of locations nationwide, including pharmacy-based clinics, and long-term care facilities. People can also continue to be tested and treated by their own health care provider who can appropriately prescribe these oral antivirals for patients to obtain from one of the local pharmacies.

Per the Emergency Use Authorization’s (EUA) for both oral anti-viral treatments, Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, the screening process entails the following requirements:

COVID-19 Positive.
Symptomatic for less than 5 days.
People 12 years old and older.
People who weight more than 88 pounds.
Pass high risk criteria.
Contraindicated Medicines.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions.

How to Access COVID-19 Treatments:

COVID-19 treatments work best when taken soon after symptoms begin. Here is how to access outpatient COVID-19 treatments if you have symptoms:

Talk to your health care provider right after you notice COVID-19 symptoms to discuss testing and treatment options.
If you do not have a health care provider or do not hear back from your provider within a few days, visit a Test to Treat location to get rapid testing and find out if you are eligible for treatments.
If you do not have insurance, visit an OptumServe location.

To find a test-to-treat location visit covid19.ca.gov/get-tested or you can also call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489) to get help in English, Spanish, and more than 150 other languages. The call center is open 7 days a week. In addition, the Disability 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

Information and Access Line (DIAL) is available to help people with disabilities access services.

Walk-ins are welcome at both sites. All patients must register through OptumServe to be tested. *Services will be free of cost at OptumServe sites, but individuals should ask about fees when calling non-OptumServe test-to-treat sites. COVID-19 Treatments Are Not a Substitute for the COVID-19 Vaccine COVID-19 treatments are not a substitute for COVID-19 vaccines. While treatments are an essential tool in the fight against COVID-19, vaccines and booster shots remain a safe, effective prevention strategy to keep people from getting infected, severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Vaccination appointments can be made by visiting myturn.ca.gov or calling 1-833-422-4255. The consent of a parent or legal guardian may be needed for those under age 18 to receive a vaccination. Visit Vaccinate All 58 to learn more about safe and effective vaccines available for all Californians 5 years of age and older.

San Benito County

OptumServe Locations: OptumServe Mobile Testing Site

Brigantino Park

2045 San Juan Hollister Road

Hollister, CA 95023

Wednesday-Sunday

10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Closed 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm

or call 1-888-634-1123

OptumServe Testing Site

930 Sunset Street

Hollister, CA 95023

Sunday-Thursday

7:00 am to 3:00 pm

Closed 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

or call 1-888-634-1123

04-05-2022 COVID-19 ANTIGEN-RAPID AND PCR TESTS NOW OFFERED AT BOTH HOLLISTER OPTUMSERVE TESTING SITES

Public Information Officer Sam Perez 831-637-5367 or sperez@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately COVID-19 ANTIGEN-RAPID AND PCR TESTS NOW OFFERED AT BOTH HOLLISTER OPTUMSERVE TESTING SITES April 5, 2022-San Benito County, CA: San Benito County residents are now able to obtain a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and/or a PCR test at either of the two OptumServe testing sites in Hollister. Results from the antigen rapid tests will be sent via the individuals selected notification method within 30-45 minutes after the test has been taken. Individuals will be able to choose between the rapid antigen (BinaxNow) test and/or the PCR test when they make an appointment at www.lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 1-888-634- 1123. Walk-ins are also welcome for both test types. All patients must register through the testing portal to be tested. Individuals who are symptomatic and test negative on the rapid antigen test are recommended to follow-up with a PCR test. There is no out-of-pocket cost for individuals to receive a either COVID-19 test.

OptumServe Mobile Testing Site
Brigantino Park
2045 San Juan Hollister Road
Hollister, CA 95023 Wednesday-Sunday
10:00 am to 6:00 pm Closed 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm Register at www.lhi.care/covidtesting
or call 1-888-634-1123

OptumServe Testing Site
930 Sunset Street
Hollister, CA 95023
Sunday-Thursday 7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Closed 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Register at www.lhi.care/covidtesting
or call 1-888-634-1123

03-02-2022 San Benito County Aligns with Updated State Guidance on Masking

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168

or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

San Benito County Aligns with Updated State Guidance on Masking

March 2, 2022-San Benito County, CA: On February 28, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) along with Governor Gavin Newsom announced starting March 1, 2022, masks will no longer be required for unvaccinated individuals, but will be strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings. After March 11, 2022, in schools and childcare facilities, masks will not be required but will be strongly recommended. Masks will still be required for everyone in high transmission settings like public transit, emergency shelters, all healthcare settings, correctional facilities, homeless shelters and long-term care facilities.

Additionally, masks are strongly recommended for all persons, regardless of vaccine status, in indoor public settings and businesses (examples: retail, restaurants, theaters, family entertainment centers, meetings, state and local government offices serving the public). No person can be prevented from wearing a mask as a condition of participation in an activity or entry into a business.

Following the California Department of Public Health’s release of new indoor masking guidance, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Executive Order N-5-22 that updates the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) in keeping with the current guidance. Starting March 1, 2022, masks will no longer be required for unvaccinated workers indoors, consistent with the updated CDPH guidance, but will be strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings. Employers must still provide a face covering upon request of an employee.

The order also extends the current Emergency Temporary Standard through May 5, 2022, to ensure the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board has time to review the new guidance in anticipation of the next readoption of the ETS.

San Benito County and the State realize COVID-19 has proved unpredictable and will respond to any change brought by more severe COVID-19 variants. The currently improving situation no longer necessitates masking mandates, but a worsening situation in the future could prompt a return to masking requirements.

The updated masking guidance is in line with the recently introduced California SMARTER – the next phase of California’s COVID-19 response. California SMARTER is anchored in the State’s focus on equity and addressing disparities. Details on SMARTER can be accessed here: https://files.covid19.ca.gov/pdf/smarterplan.pdf.

More information is available in the updated state guidance for face coverings. Click Here

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

02-09-2022 TWELVE BAY AREA HEALTH OFFICERS TO LIFT MOST INDOOR MASK MANDATES ON FEBRUARY 16, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 9, 2022

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

***PRESS RELEASE***

TWELVE BAY AREA HEALTH OFFICERS TO LIFT MOST INDOOR MASK MANDATES ON FEBRUARY 16, 2022

Masks still strongly recommended; vaccines and boosters urged to further strengthen defenses

In alignment with the State, the Bay Area counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, San Benito, Solano, Sonoma, and the City of Berkeley will lift universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings beginning Wednesday, February 16, 2022.

Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will continue to be required to wear masks in all indoor public settings. Businesses, venue operators and hosts may determine their own paths forward to protect staff and patrons and may choose to require all patrons to wear masks.

The change aligns with the California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) decision to let the statewide indoor mask requirement expire, which was instated on December 15, 2021, during the latest COVID-19 surge. Indoor masking is still required by the State for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, on public transportation; in health care settings; congregate settings like correctional facilities, homeless shelters; long term care facilities; and in K-12 schools and childcare settings.

The Bay Area Health Officers, in alignment with CDPH, continue to strongly recommend masks be used as an effective tool to prevent the spread of the virus especially when case rates are high, or when additional personal protection is needed. Continuing to mask in indoor public settings, especially crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, remains the safest choice for an individual and protects those who are medically vulnerable or are not able to get vaccinated, like our youngest children. As evidence continues to show, vaccinations and boosters remain the best defense against the virus.

The highly contagious Omicron variant brought on a new stage of the pandemic with a high number of new infections, but significantly fewer cases of life-threatening illnesses, especially

for those who are vaccinated and boosted. While relaxing indoor masking requirements is part of population-level shift toward a “new normal” of living with the disease, the Health Officers recognize that essential workers and communities of color continue to be highly impacted by COVID-19 and will need additional support to limit widening health disparities. Changes to health orders and recommendations may be updated as Health Officers follow the science and the data to evaluate whether additional protective measures may be needed as the virus evolves and if future surges occur.

People should continue to choose layered prevention strategies, such as wearing well-fitted masks (N95 or double layer cloth over surgical are best); staying home and testing when symptomatic; testing before gatherings; and improving indoor ventilation in situations where these strategies can add protection for themselves and others. Staying “up to date” on vaccinations, meaning primary series and boosters when eligible, remains the most important way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

After reaching a high of 496 new cases in a day and a 7-day average case rate of over 225 on January 18, 2022, San Benito County case rates have declined to a 7-day average of 95 as of February 9, 2022. Meanwhile, hospitalizations and deaths, have also begun to decrease.

A combination of preventative strategies, which included mask use, vaccination, boosters and testing, along with the community’s cooperation helped get the Bay Area through this last surge together as a stronger community.

“As it still remains unclear as to whether future variants could be more severe and lethal than the current Omicron, these guidelines will be subject to review and adjustment based on future incidence of infection,” stated Dr. George Gellert, San Benito County Health Officer. “As there remains virus transmission occurring in the community, and as we are seeing a new subvariant in the US, it is still critical for San Benito County residents to get vaccinated and boosted.”

By aligning with the state masking rules, the participating Bay Area counties will not need to meet previously established criteria for lifting local masking orders, which were devised at a different point in the pandemic.

CDPH continues to require masking in K-12 school settings but has indicated adjustments to the state’s policies will be shared in the coming weeks. In the meantime, there is work to be done

in closing the remaining gaps in vaccinations and boosters among children with a particular focus on equity gaps within the most highly impacted communities.

For early education programs, such as preschool and childcare settings, CDPH continues to require masking for children older than age two. Vaccinations for children under 5 are currently

undergoing federal review. Workplaces will continue to follow the COVID-19 prevention standards set by CalOSHA.

Some people may understandably feel anxious about these changes to masking requirements in the county. People can continue to choose to wear face coverings around others whether it’s mandated or not and should respect people’s choices around their health. Community members who are vaccinated and choose not to mask should respect the choices of those who continue to mask. Officials ask residents and visitors to be kind and respectful as people evaluate their risks and make choices to protect themselves and those around them.

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You have symptoms and are at high risk for severe illness because of other medical conditions, age, or have a compromised immune system. You may qualify for treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness.

Consider getting tested if:

You had a known exposure to someone with COVID 2-5 days ago, especially if you are unvaccinated.

Given how extremely contagious the Omicron variant is, if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot get tested:

Assume you have COVID-19 and follow isolation guidelines.
If members of your household are having similar symptoms, and at least one of them tests positive for COVID-19, you can probably assume that all members have COVID-19 and follow isolation guidelines.

Do not get a PCR test if:

You’ve tested positive in the last 90 days.
You have already tested positive with a rapid home test.
You need a negative test to end isolation early (for that, use a rapid home/antigen test).

I have tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do?

Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, previous infection or lack of symptoms who test positive for COVID-19 must:

Stay home (PDF) for at least 5 days.
Isolation can end after day 5 if symptoms are not present or are resolving
a diagnostic specimen (rapid antigen preferred) collected on day 5 or later tests negative.
1. If unable to test or choosing not to test, and symptoms are not present or are resolving, isolation can end after day 10.
2. If fever is present, isolation should be continued until fever resolves.
3. If symptoms, other than fever, are not resolving continue to isolate until symptoms are resolving or until after day 10.
4. Wear a well-fitting mask around others for a total of 10 days, especially in indoor settings.

I’m having symptoms of COVID-19. Where should I go?

Contact your primary care provider to arrange for testing and directions on what to do. If you need emergency care, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Should I go to the hospital for a COVID-19 test?

The Emergency Department is for people who need emergency care. Residents should NOT visit the ER for COVID testing or mild COVID symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, or body aches. Emergency room visits should be reserved for those severely ill or who have serious health concerns and require emergency care.

Where do I go to get tested / find tests?

The only state supported COVID-19 testing site in San Benito County is through OptumServe which is located at 930 Sunset Dr. Hollister, CA 95023. Due to increase in testing demand this site will be by appointment only and will not accommodate walk-ins. Appointments can be made at www.lhi.care. This testing site is operated by Logistics Health Incorporated (LHI) not Hazel Hawkins Hospital.

What does it mean if the Hollister OptumServe location does not display on the www.lhi.care website?

If the Hollister OptumServe clinic does not display as an option on the LHI website this means that no appointments are available for the coming weeks. Additional appointments could be available in neighboring counties. You can continue to check the LHI website for cancelations or additional local availability.

There is a new pop up COVID-19 testing unit in my area, are they legitimate?

Additional information from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
Don’t assume every COVID-19 test site is legit | FTC Consumer Information
How to avoid buying fake COVID tests online | FTC Consumer Information

Who should I contact if my school age child needs a COVID-19 test?

The state has provided COVID-19 test to all schools. Parents should contact their children’s school principal to inquire about a COVID-19 test.

What health care providers or community-based organizations received rapid tests from San
Benito County Public Health Services distribution of the state allocation?

Rapid test delivered to emergency responders and health care providers are reserved for staff and patients and will not be distributed to the community. Community-based organizations and places of worship will distribute tests as supply allows and can be contacted directly about availability and distribution.

Partners of this program include:

Places of Worship:

Aromas Bible Church
Calvary Baptist Church
Grace Bible Church
Hollister United Methodist Church
Lighthouse Full Gospel Church of Christ
Oasis Chapel
South Valley Community Church
St. Benedicts/Sacred Heart
Victory Outreach

Emergency Responders:

Hollister Fire Department
Hollister Police Department
San Benito County Probation
San Benito County Sheriff/Jail

Healthcare Providers & Congregate Living Facilities:

Dr. Craig Nagareda DDS
Dr. Marie Grageda
Dr. Marni Friedman
Dr. Silvia Morgan
Emmaus House
Hazel Hawkins Hospital
Hollister Pediatrics
Hollister Women’s Health
HOME Resource Center
Primary Care Associates
San Benito Health Foundation
SBC Migrant Camp
Whispering Pines LTCF

Community-Based Organizations:

Community Food Bank of SBC
San Benito County Free Library
San Juan Bautista Library
San Benito County LULAC
Youth Alliance

Do I have to pay for a COVID-19 test?

No, you do not have to pay for a COVID-19 test. An insured person can get a COVID-19 test when needed by any provider, in or out of their health plan network, at no cost. If you’re uninsured, the government pays for your test.

But there are some COVID-19 tests you do have to pay for:

At-home test kits
Some rapid result tests

What type of mask should I wear?

Wearing a mask is essential during the COVID-19 pandemic. It will help prevent both you and others from getting COVID-19. This is more important than ever with new, more easily transmitted variants of COVID-19 on the rise. San Benito County Public Health strongly encourages the use of N95 or KN95 masks. While a cloth mask is better than no mask it does not provide the protection needed for the highly transmissible Omicron variant. Additional masking information can be found here.

What Else Should I Do?

Wear a mask with good fit and filtration in ALL indoor public settings (including public transportation). N95 and KN95 or surgical masks do the best job filtering out viruses.

Anyone feeling sick, even with mild symptoms (sore throat, cough, sniffles), should stay home, isolate from others, and get tested. Anyone confirmed positive for COVID should quarantine. Seek medical care if you experience respiratory difficulties.

Additional COVID-19 Testing Sites:

Virus Geeks: https://my.virusgeeks.com/
ARCpoint Labs Monterey-Fee Based Testing: https://www.labtestmonterey.com/
ARCpoint Labs Salinas-Fee Based Testing- https://www.labtestsalinas.com/
Monterey County Testing Sites: https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-a-h/health/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-testing-locations

Santa Cruz County Testing Sites: https://www.santacruzhealth.org/HSAHome/HSADivisions/PublicHealth/CommunicableDiseaseControl/CoronavirusHome/SAVELivesSantaCruzCounty/GetTested.aspx
Santa Clara County Testing Sites: https://covid19.sccgov.org/covid-19-testing

Merced County Testing Sites: https://www.co.merced.ca.us/3436/Testing-Locations
Kaiser Permanente COVID-19 Testing Information: https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/northern-california/health-wellness/coronavirus-information/testing
Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF) COVID-19 Testing Information: https://www.sutterhealth.org/for-patients/health-alerts/covid-19-faqs#category=screening-testing
Veterans Affair (VA) COVID-19 Testing Information:
Additional State vetted COVID-19 testing sites: www.covid19.ca.gov

For answers to other common questions about COVID-19 testing, go to www.covid19.ca.gov.

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

01-20-2022 COVID-COVID-19 Testing Update and Frequently Asked

COVID-19 Testing Update and Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

COVID-19 Testing Update and Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

January 20, 2022-San Benito County, CA: As the county and state continue to experience an unprecedented surge in demand for COVID-19 testing, we recognize that limited test availability and testing turnaround times continue to be longer than expected. We understand the challenges these issues have created in our county, and we are continually working with our partners to address the need for increased testing capacity as well as a more efficient turn-around time. We will provide further updates as they become available. At present, about four times as many people are getting tested every day in San Benito County than at any other time during the pandemic.

San Benito County Public Health Services has requested additional testing capacity at the OptumServe state-sponsored testing site located at 930 Sunset Drive in Hollister. The current OptumServe testing site has the capacity to perform 990 scheduled tests per week. Due to recent staffing issues, the site could no longer accommodate walk-ins. As staffing issues are resolved the county will advise when walk-ins are available. Further, the county has requested a mobile testing unit operated by OptumServe and additional details are pending regarding implementation.

Additionally, as directed by the California Department of Public Health, San Benito County Public Health Services has distributed over 3,000 rapid tests to local healthcare providers, first responders and community-based organizations for immediate use and distribution. First responders and health care providers will use these tests for their staff and patients to prevent spread in the workplace. Community-based organizations and places of worship will distribute to the community as supply allows and can be contacted directly for availability and distribution options. See FAQ #9 for a full list of program partners.

To ensure that all Americans have access to timely COVID-19 testing, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Postal Service have launched COVIDtests.gov, a new site for requesting free home test kits by mail. Every address in the United States is now eligible to receive four free tests by signing up at the site, which states that orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
Home test kits, also known as rapid antigen tests, are available over the counter at pharmacies. While the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests provided at community clinics like OptumServe are the most accurate for detecting COVID-19, due to current demand testing results can take several days and sometimes a week or more. Therefore, rapid antigen tests are the best choice for finding out quickly if someone is contagious right now.

That is why San Benito County Public Health Services (SBCPHS) encourages every household to request test kits from www.covidtests.gov, and any other available source, to plan ahead and have in your medicine cabinet just in case.

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:

When should I get tested?

You should get a COVID-19 test if:

You have new symptoms such as fatigue, headache, body/muscle aches, cough, fever, sore throat, and/or congestion.
You have symptoms and are at high risk for severe illness because of other medical conditions, age, or have a compromised immune system. You may qualify for treatment to reduce your risk of severe illness.

Consider getting tested if:

You had a known exposure to someone with COVID 2-5 days ago, especially if you are unvaccinated.

Given how extremely contagious the Omicron variant is, if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot get tested:

Assume you have COVID-19 and follow isolation guidelines.
If members of your household are having similar symptoms, and at least one of them tests positive for COVID-19, you can probably assume that all members have COVID-19 and follow isolation guidelines.

Do not get a PCR test if:

You’ve tested positive in the last 90 days.
You have already tested positive with a rapid home test.
You need a negative test to end isolation early (for that, use a rapid home/antigen test).

I have tested positive for COVID-19. What should I do?

Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, previous infection or lack of symptoms who test positive for COVID-19 must:

Stay home (PDF) for at least 5 days.
Isolation can end after day 5 if symptoms are not present or are resolving
a diagnostic specimen (rapid antigen preferred) collected on day 5 or later tests negative.
1. If unable to test or choosing not to test, and symptoms are not present or are resolving, isolation can end after day 10.
2. If fever is present, isolation should be continued until fever resolves.
3. If symptoms, other than fever, are not resolving continue to isolate until symptoms are resolving or until after day 10.
4. Wear a well-fitting mask around others for a total of 10 days, especially in indoor settings.

I’m having symptoms of COVID-19. Where should I go?

Contact your primary care provider to arrange for testing and directions on what to do. If you need emergency care, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Should I go to the hospital for a COVID-19 test?

Where do I go to get tested / find tests?

What does it mean if the Hollister OptumServe location does not display on the www.lhi.care website?

There is a new pop up COVID-19 testing unit in my area, are they legitimate?

Don’t assume every COVID-19 test site is legit. With COVID-19 testing in short supply scammers are taking advantage of those seeking testing. Scammers have created fake and unauthorized at-home testing kits, as well as fake COVID-19 testing sites. If you question a testing site legitimacy, check the state website at www.covid19.ca.gov/get-tested/ to see if the site is listed on the website.

Additional information from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
Don’t assume every COVID-19 test site is legit | FTC Consumer Information
How to avoid buying fake COVID tests online | FTC Consumer Information

Who should I contact if my school age child needs a COVID-19 test?

The state has provided COVID-19 test to all schools. Parents should contact their children’s school principal to inquire about a COVID-19 test.

What health care providers or community-based organizations received rapid tests from San
Benito County Public Health Services distribution of the state allocation?

Places of Worship:

Aromas Bible Church
Calvary Baptist Church
Grace Bible Church
Hollister United Methodist Church
Lighthouse Full Gospel Church of Christ
Oasis Chapel
South Valley Community Church
St. Benedicts/Sacred Heart
Victory Outreach

Emergency Responders:

Hollister Fire Department
Hollister Police Department
San Benito County Probation
San Benito County Sheriff/Jail

Healthcare Providers & Congregate Living Facilities:

Dr. Craig Nagareda DDS
Dr. Marie Grageda
Dr. Marni Friedman
Dr. Silvia Morgan
Emmaus House
Hazel Hawkins Hospital
Hollister Pediatrics
Hollister Women’s Health
HOME Resource Center
Primary Care Associates
San Benito Health Foundation
SBC Migrant Camp
Whispering Pines LTCF

Community-Based Organizations:

Community Food Bank of SBC
San Benito County Free Library
San Juan Bautista Library
San Benito County LULAC
Youth Alliance

Do I have to pay for a COVID-19 test?

At-home test kits
Some rapid result tests

What type of mask should I wear?

What Else Should I Do?

Get everyone eligible in your family vaccinated as soon as possible, including a booster shot when eligible. Vaccination offers far more powerful and effective protection from these viruses than any testing and quarantine strategy. Adult and pediatric appointments are available at www.myturn.ca.gov. Residents should also check with health care providers and pharmacies for vaccine and booster availability.

Wear a mask with good fit and filtration in ALL indoor public settings (including public transportation). N95 and KN95 or surgical masks do the best job filtering out viruses.

Anyone feeling sick, even with mild symptoms (sore throat, cough, sniffles), should stay home, isolate from others, and get tested. Anyone confirmed positive for COVID should quarantine. Seek medical care if you experience respiratory difficulties.

Additional COVID-19 Testing Sites:

Virus Geeks: https://my.virusgeeks.com/
ARCpoint Labs Monterey-Fee Based Testing: https://www.labtestmonterey.com/
ARCpoint Labs Salinas-Fee Based Testing- https://www.labtestsalinas.com/
Monterey County Testing Sites: https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-a-h/health/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-testing-locations

Santa Cruz County Testing Sites: https://www.santacruzhealth.org/HSAHome/HSADivisions/PublicHealth/CommunicableDiseaseControl/CoronavirusHome/SAVELivesSantaCruzCounty/GetTested.aspx
Santa Clara County Testing Sites: https://covid19.sccgov.org/covid-19-testing

Merced County Testing Sites: https://www.co.merced.ca.us/3436/Testing-Locations
Kaiser Permanente COVID-19 Testing Information: https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/northern-california/health-wellness/coronavirus-information/testing
Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF) COVID-19 Testing Information: https://www.sutterhealth.org/for-patients/health-alerts/covid-19-faqs#category=screening-testing
Veterans Affair (VA) COVID-19 Testing Information:
Additional State vetted COVID-19 testing sites: www.covid19.ca.gov

For answers to other common questions about COVID-19 testing, go to www.covid19.ca.gov.

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

01-13-2022 COVID-19 Pop Up Testing Site Advisory

COVID-19 Pop Up Testing Site Advisory

January 13, 2022-San Benito County, CA: San Benito County Public Health Services has been made aware through media, public, and partner inquiries that a number of potentially fraudulent pop-up test sites have surfaced throughout the state of California as well as in San Benito County. These test sites have generated many questions and concerns. San Benito County Public Health Services takes these concerns very seriously and seeks to address all issues within its jurisdiction over clinical and public health laboratory testing and operations. In the context of pop-up test sites, this includes the on-site performance of diagnostic tests absent appropriate state laboratory licensure and issues pertaining to incorrect test results. Please note San Benito County Public Health Services does not have jurisdiction over pop-up test sites where patient specimens are collected and then sent off-site for laboratory testing, suspicious street vending operations, laboratory billing, and other potentially fraudulent business practices.

The only State supported COVID-19 testing site in San Benito County is through OptumServe which is located at 930 Sunset Dr. Hollister, CA 95023. Due to increase in testing demand this site will be appointment only and will not accommodate walk-ins until further notice. Appointments can be made at www.lhi.care.

Additional State vetted COVID-19 testing sites can be located at www.covid19.ca.gov. It is important to review this website should questions arise.

There are no out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing at a testing site. An insured person can get a COVID-19 test PDF when needed by any provider, in or out of their health plan network, at no cost. If you’re uninsured, the government pays for your test.

But there are some COVID-19 tests you do have to pay for:

At-home test kits
Some rapid result tests

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine booster appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255. For additional vaccination appointments please contact your healthcare provider or local pharmacy.

For more information about COVID-19 visit www.covid19.ca.gov.

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

01-05-2022 LESS THAN 50 COVID-19 VACCINE CASH INCENTIVE VOUCHERS REMAIN

LESS THAN 50 COVID-19 VACCINE CASH INCENTIVE VOUCHERS REMAIN
$200 CASH INCENTIVE VOUCHER PROGRAM FUNDING UPDATE

January 5, 2022-San Benito County: As of today, San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency has advised that there are less than 50 cash incentive vouchers remaining and once funds are fully exhausted the program will end. The anticipated end date is on or before Friday, January 7, 2022.

As a reminder, San Benito County residents aged 5 years and over who have been fully vaccinated after August 9, 2021, are eligible for the $200 cash incentive. The incentive program provides qualified individuals $200 cash after they complete their vaccination series (one dose J&J or two dose Moderna/Pfizer).

Individuals must bring proof of vaccination, identity, and San Benito County residency to:
San Benito County Health and Human Services
1111 San Felipe Rd. #108
Hollister, CA 95023
Monday-Friday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

These incentives are available to all San Benito County residents regardless of immigration status.

The following are approved verification documents: English or Spanish

To schedule a free COVID-19 vaccine or booster appointment please visit:
myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255 ore reach out to one of the providers below:

Dr. Claudette Grageda	Pinnacle Urgent Care
Dr. Martin Bress	Primary Care Associates
Dr. Paul Percival	San Benito County Public Health Services
Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital	San Benito Health Foundation
Hollister Pediatrics (Dr. Hue Nguyen-Ngo)	Local Pharmacies (Safeway, Lucky, RiteAid, Walgreens, CVS, iCare)

Free COVID-19 Testing is located at:
Hazel Hawkins Community Health Center
930 Sunset Dr. Building 2, Suite B
Hollister, CA 95023
Sunday – Thursday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Due to increase in demand walk-ins are extremely limited
Appointments strongly encouraged at lhi.care/covidtesting

For questions, please call San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline:
(831) 636-4113

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

11-18-2021 COVID-19 Boosters Available to Those 18 Years and Older to Avoid Winter Surge

COVID-19 Boosters Available to Those 18 Years and Older to Avoid Winter Surge

COVID-19 Boosters Available to Those 18 Years and Older to Avoid Winter Surge
Case rates have begun to climb as the holiday season approaches and people gather and travel.

November 18, 2021-San Benito County, CA – COVID-19 vaccine boosters are available to all adults 18 years and older, provided they qualify based on timing of the previous dose of the vaccine. Anyone in a higher-risk group – including seniors 65 and older, people with underlying medical conditions, people who work in high-risk settings and all Johnson & Johnson recipients – is urged to get a booster as soon as possible

“We are taking an expansive approach to COVID-19 boosters, realizing that people are at risk of getting COVID or spreading it as we enter the busy holiday season,” said San Benito County Health Officer, Dr. George Gellert. “We are already seeing an uptick in cases, and that could mean hospitalization for some vulnerable people. We have been stressing that boosters are essential for higher risk individuals, but now it’s become apparent that we need many more people to receive a booster dose so that we can protect ourselves, our families and friends, and our community.”

Get a booster shot as soon as you’re eligible:

If you got a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and feel you’re at risk, get a booster shot after 6 months
If you got a Johnson & Johnson vaccine, get a booster shot after 2 months

Your booster shot can be a different vaccine brand than you received before, as long as you completed your original vaccination series (one dose of Johnson & Johnson or two doses of Pfizer or Moderna).

To book your booster shot or find a walk-in clinic, visit My Turn, call 1-833-422-4255 or visit a local pharmacy.

Read more booster facts and booster questions and answers from CDPH.

More than 4,600 boosters have been administered in San Benito County since they were authorized for higher- risk groups in September. The County is averaging about 77 booster doses a day. Of the total administered, more than 2,200 boosters have gone to seniors ages 65 and older, bringing their rates of booster vaccinations to just under 1 in 2 residents. Meanwhile, more than 2,400 booster doses have been administered to residents under age 65.

Additionally, the COVID-19 Vaccine is now available for children 5-11 years of age. All San Benito County residents including minors who complete their initial vaccine series (one dose of Johnson & Johnson or two doses of Pfizer or Moderna) are eligible for a $200 cash incentive.

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

San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline 831-636-4113

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

11-12-2021 FUNDING UPDATE -Additional $250,000 Approved for COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

FUNDING UPDATE -Additional $250,000 Approved for COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

A family of 4 can receive up to $800 in cash incentive

November 12, 2021-San Benito County: On November 9, 2021, the San Benito County Board of Supervisors authorized an additional $250,000 for the $200 Cash COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Program.

San Benito County residents who get fully vaccinated after August 9, 2021, are eligible for a $200 cash incentive, including minors. Additionally, qualified individuals can receive a $25 gift card after they receive their first dose in the COVID-19 vaccination series. San Benito County residents, including minors, who receive a first dose (Moderna/Pfizer) or single dose of J&J after August 9, 2021, are eligible for the incentive.

Gift cards are available at San Benito County Public Health Services at 351 Tres Pinos Rd. Suite A-202, Hollister, CA 95023. Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Individuals must bring proof of vaccination, identity and San Benito County residency or San Benito County government employment. These incentives are available to all San Benito County residents regardless of immigration status.

The following are approved verification documents:

Vaccination Verification:
-CDC Covid-19 Vaccination Record Card

Documenting first dose received on or after August 10, 2021

-CDPH Digital Smart Health Card

Documenting first dose received on or after August 10, 2021

Adult Verification:
-Government Issued Photo Identification
-County Employee Paystub/ID (Employed by County of San Benito Only)

If ID does not have San Benito County address, then one of the following with photo ID

Utility Bill/ Insurance Statement
Mortgage Bill
Rental/Lease Agreement with Signatures

Minors under 18 Years Old Verification (must show parent or guardian/child relationship)
-Birth Certificate

With Parent/Guardian Residency Documentation

Currently, the County is providing COVID-19 vaccines to individual 5 years and older.

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

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255. San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline (831) 636-4113.

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

11-05-2021 COVID-19 Booster Shots Strongly Urged for All Eligible Individuals

COVID-19 Booster Shots Strongly Urged for All Eligible Individuals

COVID-19 Booster Shots Strongly Urged for All Eligible Individuals

November 5, 2021-San Benito County, CA: San Benito County Public Health Officials encourage all those who are eligible to get a booster shot. Under California Department of Public Health Guidance, people may choose which COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson) they receive as a booster shot. The CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of “mix and match” dosing for booster shots. “Protection from the initial vaccine series may decrease over time, and a booster shot is highly effective in preventing serious illness and death,” said Dr. George Gellert, San Benito County Health Officer. “People who are 65 and older are strongly encouraged to receive the booster shot, as well as anyone who lives in a long-term care facility, and anyone 50 years and older who has an underlying medical condition.”

Boosters are recommended for the following individuals: A Pfizer or Moderna booster shot is recommended if you:

Received your second dose at least six months ago, and
Are 65 or older, or
Are 18 or older and a long-term care resident, or
Are 18 or older and have an underlying medical condition, or
Are 18 or older and at increased risk due to social inequity (including that of communities of color), or
Are 18 or older and work or live in a high-risk setting (like a shelter)
- The CDC defines high-risk jobs as:
  - First responders (healthcare workers, firefighters, police, congregate care staff)
  - Education staff (teachers, support staff, daycare workers)
  - Food and agriculture workers
  - Manufacturing workers
  - Corrections workers
  - U.S. Postal Service workers
  - Public transit workers
  - Grocery store workers

A Johnson & Johnson booster shot is recommended if you:

Got your first dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago, and
Are 18 or older

The CDC definition of an underlying medical condition is very broad, and a significant portion of the population qualifies for a booster. For more information visit: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

COVID-19 additional doses and booster shots are not eligible for The San Benito County $200 Cash Vaccine Incentive program.

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine booster appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255 or visit a local pharmacy for appointments or walk-in availability.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit 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

11-02-2021 Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Children 5 through 11 Years of Age

Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Children 5 through 11 Years of Age

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Approves

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Children 5 through 11 Years of Age

November 4, 2021-San Benito County, CA: On November 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 to include children 5 through 11 years of age. This approval was based on thorough and transparent evaluation of the data that included input from independent advisory committee experts who overwhelmingly voted in favor of making the vaccine available to children in this age group.

Approval of the vaccine was determined based on these key points:

Effectiveness: Immune responses of children 5 through 11 years of age were comparable to those of individuals 16 through 25 years of age. In addition, the vaccine was found to be 90.7% effective in preventing COVID-19 in children 5 through 11.

Safety: The vaccine’s safety was studied in approximately 3,100 children age 5 through 11 who received the vaccine and no serious side effects have been detected in the ongoing study.

“As a parent and a physician, I know that parents, caregivers, school staff, and children have been waiting for today’s approval. Vaccinating younger children against COVID-19 will bring us closer to returning to a sense of normalcy,” said Dr. George Gellert, San Benito County Health Officer. “The comprehensive and rigorous evaluation of the data pertaining to the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness should help assure parents and guardians that this vaccine meets high standards.”

In the U.S., COVID-19 cases in children 5 through 11 years of age make up 39% of cases in individuals younger than 18 years of age. According to the CDC, approximately 8,300 COVID-19 cases in children 5 through 11 years of age resulted in hospitalization. As of October 17, 2021 - 691 deaths from COVID-19 have been reported in the U.S. in individuals less than 18 years of age, with 146 deaths in the 5 through 11 years age group.

During trial studies, side effects were generally mild to moderate in severity and occurred within two days after vaccination, and most went away within one to two days. The most commonly reported side effects included sore arm, injection site redness and swelling, feeling tired, headache, muscle and/or joint pain, chills, fever, nausea and decreased appetite. The FDA and the CDC have several systems in place to continually monitor COVID-19 vaccine safety and allow for the rapid detection and investigation of potential safety problems. For more information visit: vsafe.cdc.gov

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children 5 through 11 years of age is administered as a two-dose primary series, 3 weeks apart, but is a lower dose (10 micrograms) than that used for people 12 years of age and older (30 micrograms).
Children are eligible to receive the $25 gift card promotion when they get the first dose and $200 cash for the second dose.

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255 or visit a local pharmacy for appointments or walk-in availability. For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit VaccinateALL58.com.

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

10-27-2021 FUNDING UPDATE -$25 First Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

FUNDING UPDATE -$25 First Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

FUNDING UPDATE -$25 First Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

October 27, 2021-San Benito County: On October 12, 2021, it was announced that funding had exhausted for the $25 First Dose Vaccine Incentive Program. San Benito County Public Health Services is pleased to announce that an additional $60,000 in grant funding has been secured through the State of California to continue this incitive program. The program will provide qualified individuals a $25 gift card after they receive their first dose in the COVID-19 vaccination series. San Benito County residents, including minors, who receive a first dose (Moderna/Pfizer) or single dose of J&J after August 9, 2021, are eligible for the incentive. Additionally, county residents who get fully vaccinated after August 9, 2021, are eligible for a $200 cash incentive.

Gift cards are available at San Benito County Public Health Services at 351 Tres Pinos Rd. Suite A-202, Hollister, CA 95023. Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Individuals must bring proof of vaccination, identity and San Benito County residency or San Benito County government employment. The following are approved verification documents:

Vaccination Verification:
-CDC Covid-19 Vaccination Record Card

Documenting first dose received on or after August 10, 2021

-CDPH Digital Smart Health Card

Documenting first dose received on or after August 10, 2021

Utility Bill/ Insurance Statement
Mortgage Bill
Rental/Lease Agreement with Signatures

Minors under 18 Years Old Verification (must show parent or guardian/child relationship)
-Birth Certificate

With Parent/Guardian Residency Documentation

Currently, the County is providing COVID-19 vaccines to individual 12 and older. The County anticipates beginning to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to children under 12 by November 2021.

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

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255.

San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline (831) 636-4113.

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

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

San Benito County Public Health
831-636-4113

COVID-19 Related Medical Emergency at Spring Grove San Benito County - October 20, 2021: On October 19, 2021, an eleven-year-old, sixth grade student at Spring Grove School experienced a medical emergency. The student was transported to Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital and later flown to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford. The student is listed in critical condition. The student, family and Spring Grove Staff and students remain in our thoughts during this critical time. San Benito County Public Health Services confirmed that the student at Spring Grove School tested positive for COVID-19. Public Health Services will continue to contact trace and complete a case investigation regarding this incident. It should be noted from October 4-7, 2021, seventy-two (72) Spring Grove School sixth grade students attended a science camp in Santa Cruz County. Upon return from science camp, three (3) students tested positive for COVID-19. All 72 students quarantined for the required 10-day period. Public Health Services assures that all those in close contact with the hospitalized student and cases from the camp were notified of their exposure and quarantined in accordance with the COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for K-12 Schools in California, 2021-22 School Year found here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/K-12-Guidance-2021-22-SchoolYear.aspx. In addition, non-school contacts were also notified and continue to practice standard precautions and self-monitoring for COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of vaccination status. Currently, San Benito County Public Health Services and other health care providers are administering COVID-19 vaccines to individuals 12 years of age and older. San Benito County Public Health Services anticipates emergency use authorization approval for Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children 5-11 years of age in November 2021. For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, please visit MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255.

Health Officer Issues Recommendations on Social Distancing and Hybrid Meetings

San Benito County – October 11, 2021: Local government agencies throughout the state have been meeting via Zoom or other platforms since March 2020 when Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-29-20 authorizing remote public meetings during the pandemic. Assembly Bill 361 which was signed into law last month allows virtual board meetings to continue until Jan. 1, 2024.

On September 30, 2021, Interim Health Officer Dr. Ghilarducci, MD, FACEP issued the following recommendation on Social Distancing and Hybrid meetings.

“Given the considerable impact on our community from the COVID-19 virus and the Delta variant, I strongly recommend that all legislative bodies, including but not limited to the County, cities, and special districts, local commissions and committees, and subsidiary bodies, continue social distancing measures for public meetings, including offering, at the legislative body’s discretion, a remote or hybrid format for public meetings. Social distancing and masking remain crucial strategies in our fight to prevent contagion. Conducting public meetings in a remote or hybrid manner allows for members of the community to participate from the comfort of their homes without having to risk contracting the virus by attending in-person meetings.

These measures serve to help contain the spread of the disease and protect the community. All events public gatherings, including public meetings, create environments where a virus can potentially spread among attendees and participants. However, when combined with social distancing and masking policies, and the continued effort to increase vaccination within San Benito County, a remote or hybrid format for meetings maximizes avenues for public access and input and minimizes the risk of contagion for not only the public, but for agency staff, presenters, and legislative body members as well.”

The San Benito County Board of Supervisors will continue to hold meetings in a hybrid format offering zoom and in person options. To meet remotely, government agencies must make findings every 30 days that the existing state of emergency continues to directly impact the ability of the members to meet safely in person, or state and local officials continue to impose or recommend measures to promote social distancing.

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255 or visit a local pharmacy for appointments or walk-in availability.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit 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

10-06-2021 With Flu Season Approaching, Remember to Get the Flu Shot

With Flu Season Approaching, Remember to Get the Flu Shot

With Flu Season Approaching, Remember to Get the Flu Shot

San Benito County, CA – Amidist the COVID-19 vaccination, Public Health Services wants to remind you that the flu season is quickly approaching. Flu shots are conveniently offered at most locations in the county that offer COVID-19 vaccinations. Keep in mind, it takes a couple of weeks for the body to respond fully to the flu vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccines prevent the coronavirus and flu vaccines prevent influenza. An individual can catch both viruses at the same time, or one after the other. By getting the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine you are reducing your risk of potentially severe illnesses. For those needing both COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, it is safe to receive both at the same time.

Flu shots are widely available throughout the county. Appointments and walk-ins for both the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine are available through https://myturn.ca.gov/, in addition to the local pharmacies, provider offices and Public Health (through MyTurn).

Public Health Services will also be offering a No Cost Drive-through Flu Vaccination Clinic in November. Supplies will be limited. Free cloth face coverings will be provided, while supplies last.

Details are:
Date:               Friday, November 12, 2021
Time:               1:00pm-4:00pm
Location:         San Benito County Public Health Services Parking Lot
351 Tres Pinos Road, Hollister, CA 95023

Please talk with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about getting the flu shot or COVID-19 vaccination. For more information, visit VaccinateALL58.com. Local San Benito County COVID-19 information can also be found at https://hhsa.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

09-30-2021 Community Foundation For San Benito County Sponsors COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Raffle

Community Foundation For San Benito County Sponsors COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Raffle

San Benito County - September 30, 2021: The Community Foundation for San Benito County has received a grant of $1,500 from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation to coordinate and increase vaccine outreach. Collaborating with a coalition of county agencies and organizations, the Community Foundation of San Benito County is sponsoring a vaccine incentive raffle during the month of October.

The raffle will consist of a $500.00 cash prize to three (3) individuals. The vaccine campaign features local artist Venecia Prudencio and encourages residents to get vaccinated. The raffle is designed to partner with the County of San Benito’s Vaccine Incentive program to help boost vaccination of county residents.

The coalition is comprised of BenitoLink, Community Foundation for San Benito County, Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital, LULAC, San Benito County, San Benito County, San Benito County Arts Council, San Benito County Farm Bureau, San Benito Health Foundation, San Benito County Office of Education, San Benito YMCA, and Youth Alliance.

To be eligible to enter this raffle, San Benito County residents need to complete the COVID-19 vaccine series (second dose Moderna-Pfizer/single dose J&J) between October 1, 2021 to October 31, 2021. The drawing to be held on Friday, November 5, 2021 by the Community Foundation.

Eligible residents will be entered into this raffle after they receive their $200 cash incentive through San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency. The cash vouchers can be claimed at San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency at 1111 San Felipe Rd. Suite 108, Hollister, CA 95023, Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255

For more information about this program please call the San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline at 831-636-4113.

###

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

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

09-28-2021 New Health Officer Appointed in San Benito County

New Health Officer Appointed in San Benito County

New Health Officer Appointed in San Benito County

San Benito County, CA - On September 28, 2021, the San Benito County Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. George Gellert as the new Health Officer for the county. Dr. Gellert served as the Deputy Health Officer for almost a year alongside the County’s Interim Health Officer, Dr. David Ghilarducci. Together with the Health and Human Services Agency Director, Tracey Belton, they have led this county through the most challenging public health times in recent history with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Over the last 10 months, it has been my privilege to serve as Deputy Health Officer in San Benito County. Over that time, I have been highly impressed with the public health excellence, skills and dedication of the Health and Human Services Agency leadership and the entire Public Health team. I look forward to working with the team and our many community partners to put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us as soon as possible. And then, to returning to the advancement of the most innovative and high impact disease prevention initiatives which our county very much needs to reduce the risk and incidence of deadly chronic diseases, avoidable injuries, preventable maternal and child health issues, substance abuse and other causes of suffering and ill health in our community,” stated Dr. Gellert.

Dr. George Gellert comes to San Benito County with extensive and exemplary medical and public health experience. He is a physician executive and epidemiologist and has worked in population/public health for over 30 years. He first worked in local public health as a communicable disease control epidemiologist with the Los Angeles County Department of Health, and then as Deputy Health Officer/County Epidemiologist with the Orange County Health Care Agency. As the power of health information technologies to impact population/public health outcomes emerged, Dr. Gellert sought to engage these and served in leadership roles within industry (WebMD, HCORP). He also worked in non-profit international health at Project HOPE, and with the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna building an interagency coalition to address the epidemic of cancer in low-income nations. Dr. Gellert served as the Chief Medical Information Officer of CHRISTUS Health, one of the nation’s largest non-profit hospital systems, focused on the adoption of the electronic health record by its 15,000 physicians in advancing the practice of evidence-based medicine to improve patient care outcomes and reduce medical errors.

Dr. Gellert has delivered over 250 presentations at national/international public health and health information technology conferences, is a scientific peer reviewer for 22 leading public health and biomedical journals and has over 150 public health journal/book publications. He is a graduate of McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine (MD), Yale University’s School of Public Health (MPH), the UCLA School of Public Health Preventive Medicine Program (FABPM), and Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government (MPA).

“Dr. Gellert is an experienced physician who brings to San Benito County a record of integrity and wisdom coupled with a commitment to community. We are fortunate to have him as our Health Officer,” stated Tracey Belton, Health and Human Services Agency Director.

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

Community Foundation For San Benito County Sponsors COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Raffle

###

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

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

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09-28-2021 Third “Booster” Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Specific Pfizer Vaccinated Individuals

Third “Booster” Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Specific Pfizer Vaccinated Individuals

Third “Booster” Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Available for
Specific Pfizer Vaccinated Individuals

San Benito County, CA – A third “booster” dose is now available for specific Pfizer vaccinated individuals at least six months after completing an initial Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine series.

People previously vaccinated with Pfizer BioNTech who SHOULD receive a booster include:

Age 65 years and older;
Long term care residents; and
Age 50 through 64 years with underlying medical conditions or at increased risk of social inequities (including communities of color and others at risk of inequities).

People who MAY CONSIDER receiving a booster based on their individual benefits and risks include:

Age 18 through 49 years with underlying medical conditions; and
Age 18 through 64 who are at increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 due to their occupation or institutional setting. The CDC currently defines occupations at increased risk for COVID-19 as:
- First responders (healthcare workers, firefighters, police, congregate care staff)
- Education staff (teachers, support staff, daycare workers)
- Food and agriculture workers
- Manufacturing workers
- Corrections workers
- U.S. Postal Service workers
- Public transit workers
- Grocery store workers

The third dose is for individuals whose first two doses were the Pfizer vaccine only. No booster recommendations have been made yet by the Federal Drug Administration for individuals who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

The third “booster” dose does not qualify for any County incentive programs, including the $25 gift card promotion and $200 cash.

Appointments are available through https://myturn.ca.gov/, which also includes information about drop-in vaccination sites throughout the county, including local pharmacies.

Please talk to your healthcare provider about whether getting a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 third “booster” dose is appropriate for you. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit VaccinateALL58.com.

San Benito County COVID-19 Hotline 831-636-4113

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

09-02-2021 COVID-19 OptumServe Testing Site Changes Location and Increases Hours of Operation

COVID-19 OptumServe Testing Site Changes Location and Increases Hours of Operation

COVID-19 OptumServe Testing Site Changes Location and
Increases Hours of Operation

San Benito County, CA- Effective September 12, 2021, the COVID-19 OptumServe testing site previously located at the Veterans Building will be moving. The new location will be located at the Hazel Hawkins Community Health Center located at 930 Sunset Drive, Building 2, Suite B in Hollister, directly across the street from Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital. Hours of operation will be 7:00 AM-7:00 PM with days of operation Sunday through Thursday.

Testing continues to be an important public health practice in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Testing of all people and of all ages, including those who have no symptoms, who show symptoms of infection such as trouble breathing, fever, sore throat, or loss of the sense of smell and taste, and those who may have been exposed to the virus will help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

A positive test early in the course of the illness enables individuals to isolate themselves – reducing the chances that they will infect others and allowing them to seek treatment earlier, likely reducing disease severity and the risk of long-term disability, or death.

Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines are available at no cost either by drop-in or appointment. Appointments are available by calling 888-634-1123 or going online at MYTURN. 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.

For additional information on COVID-19 testing go to:

# # #

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

08-27-2021 San Benito County Offers $225 Vaccine Incentive

San Benito County Offers $225 Vaccine Incentive

San Benito County Offers $225 Vaccine Incentive

San Benito County – August 27, 2021: On August 24, 2021, the San Benito County Board of Supervisors approved a $500,000 cash vaccine incentive program for San Benito County residents and those employed by the County of San Benito who have been fully vaccinated on or after August 10, 2021. The cash vaccine incentive program will provide qualified individuals $200 after they complete their vaccination series (one dose J&J or two dose Moderna/Pfizer). Once the $500,000 has all been awarded, the program will cease.

Beginning August 30, 2021, cash vouchers will be available at San Benito County Health and Human Services Agency at 1111 San Felipe Rd. Suite 108, Hollister, CA 95023, Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Eligible individuals must bring proof of identity, fully vaccinated status, and San Benito County residency or county employment. The following are approved verification documents:

Vaccination Verification: (provide one)
-CDC Covid-19 Vaccination Record Card

Documenting fully vaccinated on or after August 10, 2021

-CDPH Digital Smart Health Card (myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov)

Documenting fully vaccinated on or after August 10, 2021

Adult Verification: (provide one)
-Government Issued Photo Identification
-County Employee Paystub/County ID (Employed by County of San Benito Only)
If the ID does not have a San Benito County address, then one of the following with a photo ID must be provided:

Utility Bill/ Insurance Statement
Mortgage Bill
Rental/Lease Agreement with Signatures

Minor Verification (must show parent/guardian-child relationship)
-Birth Certificate

With Parent/Guardian Residency Documentation
Other

In addition to the $200 cash incentive, San Benito County is also offering a$25 gift card for first dose vaccines received on or after August 10, 2021. These gift cards can be picked up at the Public Health office, please see additional details here.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine, visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/.
To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit the State’s MyTurn vaccine appointment system at myturn.ca.gov/ or call 1-833-422-4255

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

08-20-2021 San Benito County Free Library Face Covering Requirement

San Benito County Free Library Face Covering Requirement

San Benito County Free Library Face Covering Requirement

San Benito County – August 20, 2021: On the morning of August 20, 2021, numerous unmasked protestors entered the San Benito County Free Library. Once contacted the group was asked to put on face coverings, and the group refused to put on face coverings or leave the premises.

As a result, the San Benito County Free Library is now closed. The library will tentatively re-open on Wednesday, August 25th, 2021. The library will continue to provide telephone and online services.

Library customers will be asked to search for their items online via the library catalog (available at https://catalog.sbcfl.org/) and place a hold on the materials they wish to request. Customers who do not have internet access can place items on hold by calling the library at (831) 636-4107. Library staff will then pull the requested Library materials and call customers back to let them know that their materials are ready for pick-up. When customers arrive at the library to pick up their materials, they will send a text message to the library at (831) 613-8010 to alert the Library staff that they have arrived and a Library staff member will place the requested items on the Requested Materials Table outside the front entrance of the Library.

Community members who do not already have a Library card can sign up for one at http://sbcfl.org/my-account/get-a-library-card/. A Library staff member will contact you within 24 hours of registration with your Library card (barcode) number so that you have immediate access to our many online resources. Your physical Library card will be mailed to you.

Although the Library may be physically closed, Library staff members are still here to serve you. We continue answering phone calls, emails, and chat inquiries; for Library account information, help with accessing online resources, research questions, or help with any other Library services, please call us at (831) 636-4107, email us at library@cosb.us, or chat with us http:/sbcfl.org/ask-a-librarian/ Monday through Friday from 10 am to 6 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm.

Reminder - As is required per California State law, unvaccinated guests aged two-years-old and older must wear a mask or face shield covering the nose and mouth at all times while inside the San Benito County Free Library.

“Not everyone can be vaccinated, either because of age or personal health. As a result, the County requests that all library patrons wear a mask unless they are fully vaccinated. Although some individuals may be exempt from the State mask requirement, the County has established a more restrictive local rule to protect our residents' public health. If an unvaccinated individual is not able to wear a mask because of health conditions, religious beliefs, or otherwise personal choice, that individual may not enter the library. However, the Library continually works to provide library services to all individuals not able to enter the library, including but not limited to, curbside, telephone, and online services”. - San Benito County

The library has a behavior policy that indicates that any behavior that “endangers the safety or health of others” will not be tolerated.

Additionally, in its regulations and “Per California State law, all unvaccinated guests aged two-years-old and older must wear a mask or face shield covering the nose and mouth at all times while inside the San Benito County Free Library. Guests who are unwilling or unable to comply with this law will be asked to leave the library building and utilize our Curbside Service. The library staff reserves the right to ask a patron to leave the library for any of the reasons listed above”.

As recommended by the County’s adherence to a policy of requiring masks for unvaccinated individuals is an effort to help control the spread of COVID-19 and keep our employees and patrons as healthy as possible. We thank you for your cooperation.

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

08-18-2021 San Benito County Health Officer Order Directing Vaccination of Public Safety Workers

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

San Benito County Health Officer Order Directing Vaccination

of Public Safety Workers

San Benito County, California-August 18, 2021: Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Interim Public Health Officer Dr. David Ghilarducci, MD, FACEP issued a new public health order today directing all County of San Benito, City of Hollister and City of San Juan Bautista employees and contractors who provide Fire and Emergency Medical Services in San Benito County to be fully vaccinated by September 30, 2021. Additionally, the order requires all law enforcement personnel to provide documentation of vaccination to their employer or undergo weekly testing.

The new Order for all fire, law enforcement, and EMS which will take effect on August 19, 2021, expands a California Department of Public Health order issued on August 5, 2021 requiring employees in high-risk health care and congregate settings to be fully vaccinated by September 30, 2021.

Dr. Ghilarducci states that all fire, emergency medical services, and law enforcement workers are critical to public health and safety and these groups regularly interact with high-risk health care and congregate (jail) settings as well as with medically vulnerable individuals within the community.

This measure comes as COVID-19 cases have increased within San Benito County. As of today, San Benito County’s new cases per day per 100,000 residents was at 18.3. There are currently 5 patients hospitalized including 1 in intensive care. Meanwhile, San Benito County has fully vaccinated 58 percent of residents 12 and older while another 11 percent have been partially vaccinated.

Summary of Health Order:

All Fire and Emergency Medical Services workers must provide vaccination documentation to their employer and be fully vaccinated by September 30, 2021.
Those not yet fully vaccinated shall immediately undergo at least twice weekly testing.
For Fire and Emergency Medical Services testing will not be allowed as a substitute for full vaccination after September 30, 2021.
All law personnel must provide vaccination documentation to their employer or undergo weekly testing.
All unvaccinated workers must wear a FDA-cleared surgical mask or respirator in indoor settings.
Employer must maintain documentation of fully vaccinated employees

For additional information please visit www.sbccovid19.us.

To make a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit www.myturn.ca.gov/.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

July 19, 2021

Counties of Monterey, Napa, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Recommend Indoor Masking in Public Places as Extra Protection Against Increases in COVID-19

Case rates are increasing, especially among unvaccinated individuals.

With cases of COVID-19 rising locally and increased reports of the very infectious Delta variant, the Counties of Monterey, Napa, San Benito, and Santa Cruz recommend that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear masks indoors in public places. Out of an abundance of caution, people are recommended to wear masks indoors in places like grocery or retail stores, theaters, and family entertainment centers, even if they are fully vaccinated.

Businesses are urged to adopt universal masking requirements for customers entering indoor areas of their businesses to provide better protection to their employees and customers. This will also make it easier for businesses to be sure unvaccinated people are masked. Workplaces must comply with Cal/OSHA requirements.

The Health Officers of Monterey, Napa, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties state that the Delta variants are spreading quickly in this area and that COVID-19 hospitalizations among the unvaccinated are increasing. The Delta variants are easier to pass from person to person. The Health Officers urge everyone to take action to protect themselves and others by getting vaccinated and wearing a mask indoors and in crowded settings. In June, the Delta variants comprised 43 percent of all specimens sequenced in California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that Delta variants are now responsible for 58 percent of new infections across the country.

Fully vaccinated people are well-protected from infections and serious illness due to COVID-19 including the Delta variants. Vaccinating as many people as possible, as soon as possible, continues to be our best defense against severe COVID-19 infection and the harm it can do to our region. Vaccines are very effective, free, and widely available to everyone 12 years and older. Visit www.myturn.ca.gov or call 2-1-1 to find a vaccination site near you.

In the coming weeks, the Health Officers will revisit the recommendation for everyone to mask indoors in public settings as they continue to monitor transmission rates, hospitalizations, deaths, and increasing vaccination rates throughout the region. Data can be monitored here: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view.

06-10-2021 OptumServe Vaccination Site New Location

OptumServe Vaccination Site New Location

OptumServe Vaccination Site New Location

San Benito County – June 10, 2021: Effective June 14, 2021, the San Benito County OptumServe COVID-19 vaccination site will be moving from Rancho San Justo Middle School to its new location at 351 Tres Pinos Road Suite B, Hollister, CA 95023. June 11, 2021 is the last day appointments will be seen at the Rancho San Justo clinic location.

Individuals interested in an appointment at the OptumServe Vaccine site can schedule through the California MyTurn system at https://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 14 languages including Spanish.

State of California Vax for the Win:

On May 27, 2021 Governor Gavin Newsom launched “Vax for the Win,” a new multi-faceted vaccine incentive program designed to motivate Californians to get their vaccination leading up to the state’s reopening on June 15.

After May 27, 2021 individuals that begin and complete their COVID-19 vaccination will automatically be eligible to receive a $50 prepaid or grocery card. Individuals will be given the option to select from a $50 Virtual Prepaid Debit Card or a $50 grocery gift card from Kroger (which includes Ralphs, Food 4 Less and Foods Co.) or Albertsons (which includes Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions and Andronico’s Community Markets), while supplies last.

All Californians aged 12+ who are at least partially vaccinated are automatically eligible for the cash prize drawings taking place in June. Thirty winners in total will be selected for the “$50,000 Fridays” cash prize drawings on June 4 and June 11, totaling $1.5 million. On June 15, $1.5 million will be awarded to 10 lucky Californians – for a grand total of $15 million in cash prizes. Winners must complete their vaccination in order to claim their prize. If someone under 18 wins, the cash will be put in a savings account for them until they turn 18.

For more information, visit COVID19.ca.gov/vax-for-the-win. Local San Benito County COVID-19 information can be found at www.sbccovid19.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

Public Information Officer

sbcpio@cosb.us
831-636-4168

06-01-2021 San Benito County Advances to Yellow Tier

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

San Benito County Advances to Yellow Tier

San Benito County, California June 1, 2021:

Today the State announced that San Benito County has met the requirements to move to the Yellow Tier, and effective tomorrow, June 2, 2021, activities and businesses permitted in the Yellow Tier per the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy may resume operation. San Benito County has an adjusted daily new case rate per 100,000 residents of 1.3 thus moving into Yellow tomorrow. Businesses and activities permitted to open under the State’s Yellow Tier must continue to comply with the State’s Industry Guidance found here. On May 21, 2021, California Department of Public Health announced that as California fully reopens the economy, the state will move beyond the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Beginning June 15, 2021, all sectors listed in the current Blueprint Activities and Business Tiers Chart may return to usual operations (with the limited exceptions noted for Mega Events). More information regarding Beyond the Blueprint can be found here and Beyond the Blueprint Questions and Answers 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

05-17-2021 California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly releases Statement on Mask Guidance

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly releases Statement on Mask Guidance

Modified CDC mask guidelines not yet implemented in the State of California

San Benito County, CA – May 17, 2021:

Today California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly, announced that on June 15, 2021, California plans to implement the CDC’s guidelines around masking to allow fully vaccinated Californians to go without a mask in most indoor settings. He stated this four-week period will give Californians time to prepare for this change while we continue our relentless focus on delivering vaccines, particularly in underserved communities. As of May 3, 2021, face coverings are no longer required outdoors except at crowded events, and for unvaccinated people, when physical distancing cannot be maintained. Further, for indoor settings outside of one’s home, including public transportation and schools, face coverings continue to be required regardless of vaccination status. For additional information please visit https://covid19.ca.gov/ and to make a COVID-19 vaccine appointment please visit https://myturn.ca.gov/.

05-14-2021 COVID-19 Vaccinations Expanded to Include Youth Ages 12 to 15

Public Information Officer David Westrick

831-636-4168 or SBCPIO@cosb.us

For Release: Immediately

COVID-19 Vaccinations Expanded to Include Youth Ages 12 to 15

May 14, 2021 San Benito County, CA –

California Department of Public Health announced on May 12, 2021 that COVID-19 vaccination is now available for youth ages 12 to 15. Appointments can be scheduled through MyTurn, which also includes information about all vaccination sites throughout the county. California parents, legal guardians and emancipated youth can schedule appointments for young people in their families aged 12+ to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine using the statewide booking system MyTurn or by calling California’s COVID-19 Hotline at 1-833-422-4255 starting Thursday morning. This expanded eligibility comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) vaccine safety review panel and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup recommended on Wednesday, May 13, 2021 that the vaccine is safe and effective in protecting this age group against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. On May 10, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended the Pfizer vaccine's Emergency Use Authorization to allow administration for 12- to 15-yearolds, following clinical trials that proved it safe for this age group with only non-serious side effects like fatigue and headache. Several vaccination sites in San Benito County can accommodate the newly approved age group. Youth between 12 to 17-years old need parent or legal guardian consent which is completed during appointment scheduling at https://myturn.ca.gov/. No additional consent forms are required locally. San Benito County Public Health Services will continue its expansive efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccine for those communities hardest hit by COVID-19. Public Health Services is partnering with schools and other community organizations to establish vaccination clinics in San Benito County that have experienced disproportionately high rates of COVID-19 cases, and the Public Health Service’s robust outreach efforts will continue with this expansion of eligibility. Please visit covid19.ca.gov/vaccines for answers to questions on vaccinations for the 12+ age group. For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit VaccinateALL58.com.

04-06-2021 San Benito County Advances to Orange Tier

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

03-26-2021 Optum Serve Site to Provide COVID-19 Vaccinations

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
- Refer to the State high risk fact sheet: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/vaccine-high-risk-factsheet.aspx

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 15^th, 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

03-26-2021 Two Cases of Coronavirus South African Variant, One Case of UK Variant Detected in San Benito County

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 15^th, 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

03-17-2021 All San Benito County Educators Have Been Offered COVID-19 Vaccine

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

03-12-2021 San Benito County Advancing to Red Tier effective Sunday, March 14, 2021

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

03-09-2021 San Benito County Transitions to MyTurn for Statewide Registration for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

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

03-05-2021 ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE FULL - COVID-19 Drive-Thru Mass Vaccination Clinic Scheduled for Sunday, March 7, 2021 at Bolado Park

** 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

02-17-2021 San Benito County Public Health Services Vaccine Delivery for Agriculture, Food, Emergency Services and Education/Childcare Sectors

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:

Food and agricultural employees can register through the County’s bilingual vaccine interest portal.

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

02-12-2021 San Benito County Advancing Within Current Vaccination Tie

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

02-03-2021 Local COVID-19 Testing Availability Reminder Walk-in Now Available

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

02-03-2021 Vaccine Supply Shortages Prompt Older Adult Prioritization

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

01-28-2021 San Benito Health Foundation Under Investigation for Allegations of Inappropriate Vaccine Plan Diversion

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 25^th, 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 22^nd, 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

01-28-2021 San Benito County Public Health Services to Hold Drive-Thru COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic for 75+ by Appointment Only

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

01-25-2021 State Public Health Officials Lift Regional Stay at Home Order for All Regions of the State

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

01-22-2021 *UPDATED* San Benito County Anticipates Advancing to Phase 1B, Tier 1 the Week of 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:

Continue vaccinating all persons in Phase 1A
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

01-17-2021 San Benito County Received Moderna Vaccine Lot Linked to Possible Allergic Reactions

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.

V-safe link here

01-16-2021 COVID-19 Administrative Penalty Ordinance Approved

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 4/5^th 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:

first non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $100
second non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $250
civil penalty for a third and any subsequent non-commercial violation shall be a fine of $500

Commercial Penalties- Each Day a Separate Violation:

first violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of 1,000
second violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of $2,500
third violation involving a commercial activity shall be a fine of 5,000
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

01-14-2021 Vaccine Interest Portal is LIVE

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

01-13-2020 San Benito County Prepares to Enter Phase 1B: Contingent on the Receipt of Vaccine from the State

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

01-13-2021 New Employer State Law AB 685 and Workplace Reporting Portal

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

1 6d2bb16c0e COVID-Press-Releases 9adfb9c885

Thumb	Name	Size
	2021-01-13-SBC-Prepares-to-Enter-Phase-1B-Contingent.pdf 2021-01-13-SBC-Prepares-to-Enter-Phase-1B-Contingent.pdf Open Download Copy Link	662.61 KB
	2021-01-13-New-Employer-State-Law-AB-685-and-Workplace-Reporting-Portal.pdf 2021-01-13-New-Employer-State-Law-AB-685-and-Workplace-Reporting-Portal.pdf Open Download Copy Link	81.96 KB
	2021-01-13-New-Employer-State-Law-AB-685-and-Workplace-Reporting-Portal-SPANISH.pdf 2021-01-13-New-Employer-State-Law-AB-685-and-Workplace-Reporting-Portal-SPANISH.pdf Open Download Copy Link	82.35 KB
	2021-01-10-SBC-Covid-19-Vaccine-Update-eng-esp.pdf 2021-01-10-SBC-Covid-19-Vaccine-Update-eng-esp.pdf Open Download Copy Link	244.55 KB
	2021-01-07-San-Benito-County-Rolling-Out-Vaccine-Plan-eng-esp.pdf 2021-01-07-San-Benito-County-Rolling-Out-Vaccine-Plan-eng-esp.pdf San Benito County Rolling Out Vaccine Plan & COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard Open Download Copy Link	271.34 KB
	2020-12-23-Workplace-Reporting-Final-eng-esp.pdf 2020-12-23-Workplace-Reporting-Final-eng-esp.pdf Open Download Copy Link	373.92 KB
	2020-12-16-San-Benito-County-Prepares-for-Receiving-COVID-19-Vaccine.pdf 2020-12-16-San-Benito-County-Prepares-for-Receiving-COVID-19-Vaccine.pdf Open Download Copy Link	272.7 KB
	2020-12-10-Increased-COVID-19-Infections-Flu-Cold-Season-PR120720-v2-Eng-Esp.pdf 2020-12-10-Increased-COVID-19-Infections-Flu-Cold-Season-PR120720-v2-Eng-Esp.pdf Open Download Copy Link	247.04 KB
	2020-12-05-Regional-Stay-Home-Order-In-Effect.pdf 2020-12-05-Regional-Stay-Home-Order-In-Effect.pdf Open Download Copy Link	724.7 KB
	2020-12-04-PR-Regional-Stay-at-Home-Order.pdf 2020-12-04-PR-Regional-Stay-at-Home-Order.pdf Open Download Copy Link	233.5 KB

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San Benito County

Health & Human Services Agency

Hollister, California

COVID-19 Press Releases

Updated COVID-19 Testing Hours

San Benito County, CA. Effective October 16, 2022, OptumServe COVID-19 PCR and Rapid Antigen testing and treatment services will be changing their hours of operation in San Benito County.

Bivalent COVID-19 Boosters Most Effective Against Current COVID-19 Variants

San Benito County, CA. Earlier this month the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized Pfizer and Modern bivalent vaccine (“two strain”) booster for everyone aged 12+, following completion of their primary series at least two months ago, regardless of vaccine product used.

***PRESS RELEASE***

San Benito County Aligns with Updated State Guidance on Masking

COVID-19 Testing Update and Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

COVID-19 Boosters Available to Those 18 Years and Older to Avoid Winter Surge

FUNDING UPDATE -Additional $250,000 Approved for COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

COVID-19 Booster Shots Strongly Urged for All Eligible Individuals

Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Children 5 through 11 Years of Age

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Approves

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for Use in Children 5 through 11 Years of Age

FUNDING UPDATE -$25 First Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive

Health Officer Issues Recommendations on Social Distancing and Hybrid Meetings

With Flu Season Approaching, Remember to Get the Flu Shot

Community Foundation For San Benito County Sponsors COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Raffle

New Health Officer Appointed in San Benito County

Community Foundation For San Benito County Sponsors COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Raffle

More Messages

Navigate & Discover

Third “Booster” Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Specific Pfizer Vaccinated Individuals

COVID-19 OptumServe Testing Site Changes Location and Increases Hours of Operation

San Benito County Offers $225 Vaccine Incentive

San Benito County Free Library Face Covering Requirement

OptumServe Vaccination Site New Location

Public Information Officer

San Benito County Advances to Yellow Tier

San Benito County, California June 1, 2021:

California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly releases Statement on Mask Guidance

Modified CDC mask guidelines not yet implemented in the State of California

San Benito County, CA – May 17, 2021:

COVID-19 Vaccinations Expanded to Include Youth Ages 12 to 15

May 14, 2021 San Benito County, CA –

·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.

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.

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.

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

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

PRESS RELEASE