Previous ​Archived COVID-19 Updates​


December​

New State Travel Advisory, Indoor Masking and Mega-Event Requirements

In California, case rates have increased 47% and hospitalizations are up 14% since Thanksgiving. Beginning December 15, 2021, masking is required for all public indoor settings in California regardless of vaccination status. Mega event attendees must show vaccination proof or negative COVID-19 test. Also it is recommended that anyone arriving in California get tested within three to five days. For details on the new guidance, read the Dec. 13 CDPH news release​​.  ​Sacramento County has had a Health Order since July 30, 2021 that requires face coverings to be worn in indoor public settings regardl​ess of vaccination status due to COVID-19 case rates of more than 5 per 100,000. ​

COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Update

The CDC recommends a COVID-19 booster (third dose) for anyone 18 or older who received a Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their second shot. For those who received a J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, it is recommended that everyone receive a booster dose at least two months after their initial shot. Mix and match of vaccine dosing is allowed. For more information on boosters and to find your vaccine, visit MyTurn.ca.gov or the Sacramento County COVID-19 Vaccine webpage. There are also vaccination sites in hospitals, physicians’ offices, local pharmacies, pop-up clinics, and more. Read the SacCountyNews story for details: 11/23/2021 - COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Update​​ 

News Story

November​​​​​

Sacramento Co​​unty Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, December 16

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen Thursday, 12/16 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum Eventbrite ​registration: https://bit.ly/3qpjO3G. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Arabic and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered on Zoom you will need to re-register on Eventbrite.​ ​​​

​COVID-19 Holiday Safety Tips

Gatherings and travel for fall and winter celebrati​ons may put people at increased risk for COVID-19. For a safe holiday, decide how to minimize COVID-19 risk while celebrating, e.g., wash hands often or use hand sanitizer, stay home when sick, wear a face mask and clean/disinfect high contact surfaces. ​Sacramento County Public Health recommends reducing the spread of COVID-19 during holidays by following the COVID-19 Holiday Safety Tips and read the SacCountyNews Story, Holiday Food Safety and Reducing COVID-19 Risk.

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Th​ursday, November 18

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen Thursday, 11/18 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum Eventbrite registration: https://bit.ly/3qpjO3G. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Arabic and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered on Zoom you will need to re-register on Eventbrite. 

News Stories 

October​

COVID-19 Vaccinations for Children Ages 5-11

Soon, children who are 5-11 years old can receive the rigorously tested and reviewed Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Visit MyTurn.ca.gov​ to make an appointment starting Nov. 4, 2021 or contact your primary care provider for available appointments. The vaccination for this age group is a 2-dose series taken 3 weeks apart and is one-third the dose of the vaccine for those 12 years old and up. COVID-19 has become one of the top 10 causes of pediatric death, and tens of thousands of children and teens have been hospitalized with COVID-19. This vaccine is the best way to protect children, and before being authorized for children, scientists and medical experts completed their review of safety and effectiveness data from clinical trials of thousands of children. ​Learn more about vaccines​.

Reduce Risk of COVID-19 for Fall/Winter Gatherings

Fall and winter are full of wonderful celebrations that can include large gatherings of family, friends and travel. Read the Sacramento County Public Health COVID-19 Guidance for Holiday Events and Gatherings to reduce your risk while enjoying this time of year. For additional guidance go to the County’s Environmental Management website​

CDC recently released additional information regarding booster shots

The guidance outlines who should get a third vaccine dose and who can receive a booster. If you are confused, you’re not alone. Read the COVID-19 Booster Shot FAQs.

Restaurant Industry: Don’t Miss a Free Webinar on COVID-19 and Resources 

The webinar for the restaurant industry will be held on Thursday, October 14, at 10:30-11:30 AM. Hear from Sacramento County Public Health, Environmental Management, and Economic Development. Advanced registration is required: https://saccounty-net.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_ugyAfTqWSvuBRFHahDegDw. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information to join the webinar.

News Story

September​

Teleconferencing Recommendation for Public Meetings - The Sacramento C​ounty Health Officer currently recommends the use of teleconferencing for local legislative bodies, including commissions, committees, boards, and councils to allow for virtual participation in public meetings and is a social distancing measure that may help control the transmission of COVID-19 and its variants. Utilizing teleconferencing options for public meetings is an effective and recommended social distancing measure to facilitate participation in public affairs and is intended to satisfy the requirement of the Brown Act. Please review the SCPH Teleconferencing Recommendation Document (09/28/2021).

Guidance for Reducing COVID-19 Risk during Halloween and Fall Activities

It’s that spooky time of year that trick or treaters love and we have COVID-19 Guidance for Safe Fall/Halloween Activities as well as tips for Halloween in your neighborhood and fall time favorites such as haunted activities, pumpkin patch hay rides, and apple picking. The guidance is intended to help you know risk levels of certain activities, reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect those who are vulnerable. For more information go to the County’s Environmental Management website

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, October 28

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 10/28 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community m​​embers can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered you will need to re-register to get Zoom notifications and reminders about this event. 

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, September 23

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 9/16 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered you will need to re-register to get Zoom notifications and reminders about this event. 

News Story

August​

COVID-19 Testing/Vaccination FAQs, Myths & Sources 

As COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to rise, increasing vaccination rates in our community remains the most powerful tool to ending the pandemic. With added FDA approval for the Pfizer vaccine and vaccine clinics throughout the community, it’s easier than ever to get vaccinated. For those still on the fence about the COVID vaccine, read the FAQs and information on myths.  

FDA Approves COVID-19 Vaccine 

On Aug. 23, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the vaccine, Comirnaty (koe-mir’-na-tee), for the prevention of COVID-19 for those 16 years old and older, which had been known as the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine under the emergency use authorization – EUAs are used during public health emergencies to prevent, diagnose, or treat a disease. The vaccine also continues to be available under the EUA for individuals 12 through 15 years old and as a third dose in certain immunocompromised individuals. Read the details on the FDA website: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-covid-19-vaccine 

​​​​​RESCHEDULED TO 9/23: Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, September 16 

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 9/16 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered you will need to re-register to get Zoom notifications and reminders about this event. 

Indoor Mega Events Require Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination or Negative Test

CDPH announced that starting Sept. 20 through Nov. 1, mega events in California require attendees of indoor gatherings with 1,000 or more must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination, or show a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event beginning. Review details:  https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Beyond-Blueprint-QA.aspx

News Story

July​

07/29/2021 - Sac County Public Health Issues New Health Order

New CDPH Face Coverings Guidance, July 28, 2021

About 15 percent of the population do not have the option for vaccination and the more contagious Delta variant develops more severe symptoms. As a result, CDPH recommends universal masking indoors statewide. Until we reach immunity through vaccination, the COVID-19 infection risk will remain. View the July 28, 2021 CDPH Guidance for Face Coverings

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, August 19

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 8/19 from 6-7:30PM. We understand that many community members may have questions around the variants, vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered you will need to re-register to get Zoom notifications and reminders about this event. 

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, July 22

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 7/22 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31​AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. NOTE: If you had previously registered you will need to re-register to get Zoom notifications and reminders about this event. 

July 15 SacCountyNews Story: SacCounty Public Health Recommends Masking

Due to the recent day-over-day case rate increases of COVID-19 from the highly infectious Delta variant, the Sacramento County Public Health Officer strongly recommends masking indoors. In less than a month, Sacramento’s daily case rate has risen drastically, from 3.8 on June 20 to 10 on July 14. While cases continue to surge and until vaccination rates have increased in Sacramento County, vaccinated residents are strongly recommended to wear masks in indoor settings where vaccination verification is not required and the vaccination status of others is unknown. Read the SacCountyNews story for details.

News Stories

June​​

State Provides a Portal to Access Your Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record - You can safely ac​cess your digital vaccine record for free at MyVaccineRecord.CDPH.CA.GOV by entering your name, DOB, and phone/email associated with your vaccine record. Then create a four-digit PIN that generates a special QR code so you decide how and when to share your vaccination record. This is an optional means to obtain your COVID-19 vaccine information, and is the digital version of your paper vaccine card. It is one of the options to show proof of vaccination - the QR code will work with specific types of QR readers. However, the State is not implementing a mandatory passport system in California. Learn more and access your digital vaccine record by going to https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/ 

California is Open. What Does This Mean?

CDPH has created four new fact sheets to help Californians understand what the state's June 15 reopening means. 

Reopening the California Economy

With decreasing COVID-19 transmission rates and increasing vaccination rates, California has fully reopened its economy. This means no more physical distancing, no capacity limits, no county tiers, and relaxed mask guidance. Find out more on the State's website: https://covid19.ca.gov/safely-reopening/ 

Vaccinated and Traveling?

See CDC's latest recommendation for traveling in the U.S.: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html

Antigen Testing – Rapid Results in 15 Minutes

Our 13 COVID-19 Community Testing Sites are adding antigen rapid testing options (results in 15 minutes) for those who need immediate results starting Monday, June 14, in additional to the traditional PCR testing currently offered. Patients may follow-up a positive antigen result with a PCR test to ensure accuracy in the same visit (PCR results are within 3 days).  The antigen test is not as sensitive as the PCR test. Antigen testing will not suffice for air travel or when a PCR test is required to get into an events. However, it is a great option for those who are unvaccinated and must have regular testing for school sports and workplace testing, or if you’ve been around a large group of people, or have a known COVID-19 exposure, for example. Learn more about free testing.

Beyond the Blueprint June 15

With more people getting protection from getting the COVID-19 vaccine, California plans to fully reopen the economy on June 15. Life will begin to feel a lot like before COVID-19. Restaurants, shopping malls, movie theaters, and most everyday places will be open as normal with no capacity limits, facial coverings or social distancing required. This does not apply to those who are unvaccinated, schools, health care settings and some other public settings and large events. Learn more from CDPH

CDPH Updated Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings

CDPH has provided updated face covering guidance as California is slated to lift many of its COVID-19 related restrictions on June 15. Per the guidance, unless exempt, unvaccinated individuals are advised to continue wearing a mask in indoor and outdoor public spaces. Those who have been vaccinated are not required to wear a mask in most indoor and outdoor settings. However, masks will still be required by all who are not exempt in public transportation settings, health care settings, and correctional facilities, for example. Read the June 9, 2021 CDPH Masking Guidance for details: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/guidance-for-face-coverings.aspx.

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, June 24

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye, Rachel Allen and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 6/24 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation.

Sacramento County Enters Orange Tier with New Health Order

Sacramento County’s June 1 Health Order is effective immediately until it expires at 12:01 a.m., on June 15, 2021, unless rescinded or amended by the Health Officer. The Sacramento County Health Order reflects the State’s Orange Tier 3 (moderate) in the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Our Health Order includes the CDPH face-covering mandate and documents the requirement for schools to abide by the CDPH Guidance for K-12 Schools and COVID-19 K-12 In-Person Instruction. Additionally, ordered is that sports programs abide by the CDPH Outdoor and Indoor Youth and Recreational Adult Sports Guidance. Some of the major advancements of moving from the Red Tier 2 (substantial) to the less restrictive Orange Tier 3 (moderate) are that many businesses, sectors, and events will have greater indoor/outdoor capacity or can reopen or operate indoors. Dr. Kasirye recognizes that it is still important for the County to reach this lower tier before June 15. This advancement signifies there is lower risk of spreading COVID-19 in the community and will increase capacity that much earlier for businesses. The State of California is slated to expire the tier structure on June 15 and go Beyond the Blueprint

June 1 Health Order: https://www.saccounty.gov/COVID-19/Documents/20210601_Sacramento_County_Health_Order.pdf

​Red vs Orange flyer: https://www.saccounty.gov/COVID-19/Documents/COVIDTierFlyerRedvsOrange.pdf 

​​Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, June 10

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye, Rachel Allen and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 6/10 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation.

News Story

May​

What families need to know about COVID-19 vaccines 

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, May 27

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye, Rachel Allen and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 5/27 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation.

Sacramento County Public Health Forum on COVID-19, Thursday, May 13

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye, Rachel Allen and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 5/13 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing.  This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. Community members can register for the online forum: https://bit.ly/31AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation. 

FDA Expands Pfizer Vaccine EUA for Ages 12-15 - Next Steps

On May 10, the FDA expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to include adolescents 12 through 15 years of age. By mid-week, the next step is for the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to make its review, as well as the Western States Scientific Safety Review to independently review the FDA's expanded EUA related to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Upon their approval, the use of the Pfizer vaccine for 12-15 year olds may begin in California counties. 

Stay Home After Travel – Especially after International Travel – Get Tested 

It is recommend that you delay travel until you are fully vaccinated to reduce spreading COVID-19, particularly the variants. It is important if you aren’t fully vaccinated, that when you do travel:

  • Stay home (self-quarantine) for 7 days after travel AND about 3-5 days after travel, get tested for COVID-19
    • Even if you test negative, stay home for 7 days.
    • If you don’t get tested, stay home for 10 days.
  • Avoid being around people who are at risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not. 

Find a number of free COVID-19 testing sites in Sacramento County.

Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps Coordinator Awarded CESA Gold Award

Lynn Pesely, Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps (SMRC) coordinator has been awarded the Gold Award from the California Emergency Services Association (CESA). Pesely activated the SMRC in alignment with the March 2020 County Emergency Operations Center activation and has been a relentless champion of the countywide response efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her knowledge, skills, and leadership have become a bedrock against which all involved county departments, leaders and those in the community have come to lean upon. Pesely reflects the highest standards and traditions of the public safety community and proven herself a distinguished leader in the field. She will be honored during the May 2021 virtual CESA Annual Emergency Management Training and Conference

News Stories 

April​

Sacramento County Public Health Hosts a COVID-19 Online Community Forum, April 29

Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Conversation with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen this Thursday, 4/29 from 6-7:30PM.  We understand that many community members may have questions around the vaccine and testing. This would be a great opportunity for community members to connect directly with our Public Health Leadership. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese Interpretation.  Register for this April 29 Online Community Forum.

CDPH Masking Update

CDPH issued the following statement by State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón, Director of CDPH, in response to today’s announcement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to update masking guidance for fully vaccinated Americans: We have reviewed and support the CDC’s new masking recommendations and are working quickly to align California’s guidance with these common sense updates. While more than 50% of Californians 16+ are partially or fully vaccinated, many others are still not vaccinated, and the threat of variants remains. We continue to urge all eligible Californians to get vaccinated to help us move past this pandemic.

Sacramento County Public Health Agrees J&J Vaccine Use Should Resume 

On April 23, 2021 the FDA and CDC lifted the recommended pause on the use of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine following a thorough safety review. The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup also supported this recommendation. Sacramento County Public Health agrees that the vaccine is safe and providers should resume use of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine to prevent the continued spread of the disease, severe disease, and deaths from COVID-19.

April 15, 2021 Public Health Order

Effective immediately, the April 15 Sacramento County Health Order has been released which reflects the changes and the alignment with the State of California restrictions and guidance for the Red Tier 2/Substantial in the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Included in the County’s Health Order: 

  • California Department of Public Health (CDPH) face covering mandate that requires all people to wear face coverings in public spaces in California unless exempt. 
  • Requirement for schools to abide by the CDPH Guidance for K-12 Schools and COVID-19 K-12 In-Person Instruction. 
  • Sports programs in Sacramento County must abide by the CDPH Outdoor and Indoor Youth and Recreational Adult Sports Guidance.  

Join Us for the SCPH COVID-19 Community Forum on Apr. 15

Sacramento County Public Health has its next COVID-19 Community Forum with Dr. Kasirye and Dr. Cohen, Thursday, 4/15 from 6-7:30PM, to ask Public Health leadership about the vaccine and testing. Please register to join this online forum:. https://bit.ly/3​1AMaL0. This event will have American Sign Language (ASL), Chinese, Hmong, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese interpretation.

In-Person Public Meeting Guidance 

The Sacramento County Health Officer established criteria for safely conducting public meetings. At this time, Boards, Councils, Commissions, and other bodies that conduct public meetings in Sacramento County may do so in-person with public attendance with COVID-19 mitigation measures. 

Updated Travel Advisory April 2, 2021

CDPH and the CDC recommend delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated, as air, bus or rail travel increases the chance of getting and spreading COVID-19 particularly with more transmissable variants of the virus. After you’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you should keep taking precautions — like wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart from others, and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces in public places until more is known. Read the updated travel advisory and learn more about domestic travel during COVID-19.

News Stories​

March​​​​​

March 16, 2021 Public Health Order​​​

The State announced Sacramento County is allowed to move from the most restrictive Purple/Widespread Tier 1 to the less restrictive tier of Red/Substantial Tier 2 per the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy.  Sacramento County Public Health has issued the March 16, 2021 Health Order to reflect the move to the Red Tier. Read SacCountyNews story with the summary of the updates. ​​

March 16, 2021 Tuesdays at 2 with Sacramento Metro Chamber with Dr. Kasirye Facebook Live 

Dr. Kasirye recaps the year and discusses the County's move to the Red Tier. Watch the discussion on Facebook Live.​  

March 12 Public Health Order

The State of California has made adjustments to a business sector in the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. To align with the changes, Sacramento County Public Health is issuing an updated Public Health Order, effective Saturday, March 13. Under Sacramento County’s current tier designation of Purple/Widespread Tier 1, the Order allows wineries, breweries and distilleries in Sacramento County to operate outdoors with specific mitigation measures (with reservations, 90-minute time limit, table seating, onsite consumption, closed by 8pm). ​​ 

March 12 - California has 2 million People Vaccinated in HPI quartile 1

The State has updated its Tier criteria for case rate, test positivity, and health equity metric thresholds to move to less restrictive Tiers with reaching 2 million vaccinations in the lowest Healthy Places Index quartile 1. 


Update to Allowable Activities to State's Blueprint for a Safer Economy - March 11

March 10, 2021 Public Health Order​

On March 10, 2021, Sacramento County Public Health issued an updated health order to account for a recent change by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) that now allows indoor sports with specific measures in place, including COVID-19 testing as a provision in the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy Purple/Widespre​ad Tier 1.  The specific changes in are in section #8 of the March 10 Sacramento County Health Order:  Removal of the word “outdoor”; and link added to updated Sacramento County local sports guidance, which aligns with the newest CDPH guidance. Read the full March 10, 2021 Health Order. ​​

​​COVID-19 Online Public Health Forum - Thurs., March 18

COVID-19 Public Health Online Forum with Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye is March 18 from 6 - 7:30 p.m. and will feature a Q&A format. Advanced registration is required. Register for the forum: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__MItRI1lQwaaXlUlemJfRA

COVID-19 Online Public Health Forum - Thurs., March 4

COVID-19 Public Health Online Forum with Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye is tonight from 6 - 7:30 p.m. and will feature a Q&A format. Advanced registration is required. Register for the forum: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__MItRI1lQwaaXlUlemJfRA

Spring Holiday and Easter Celebration Guidance

For the health and safety of community members during the COVID-19 pandemic, gatherings and activities should be outdoors and must be limited to three households or less for no more than 2 hours and take other precautionary measures per CDPH's Guidance for Private Gatherings. Learn more about safer alternatives to traditional festivities

March 3, 2021 Public Health Order

Sacramento County is in Purple/Widespread Tier 1, but this week has met criteria of fewer than 14 per 100,000 new COVID-19 cases. This new benchmark allows elementary schools (grades K-6) that hadn’t already, to now reopen with County and State approval based on specified safety plans and mitigation measures for in-person instruction. This criteria also qualifies youth and adult sports activities for outdoor low-contact, moderate-contact, and high-contact sports with specific mitigation measures and requirements in the sports guidance. Inter-team competitions are permitted for allowable sports. However, tournaments or competitions involving more than two teams are prohibited. Read the full March 3 Public Health Order.

News Stories

February​

February 8 - Updated Sacramento County Public Health Order

On Feb. 6, the State of California updated its Blueprint for a Safer Economy tier structure purple tier criteria to allow indoor operations for places of worship – at a 25 percent capacity maximum with modifications that prohibit singing/chanting. In order to coincide with the State’s tier structure, Sacramento County has updated its public health order. Effective immediately, Sacramento County’s Feb. 8 Health Order aligns with Purple/Tier 1 Widespread to continue some indoor and outdoor operations under reduced operational capacity, and supersedes the Jan. 25, 2020, Order. Additionally, for schools, counties must reach a COVID-19 adjusted case rate threshold established by the State of California (currently an adjusted case rate of less than 25 cases per 100,000 for g​​rades K-6) before additional schools may reopen for in-person instruction. Inter-team competitions are permitted for outdoor low-contact sports. Tournaments or competitions involving more than two teams are prohibited. 

News Story

January​​

COVID-19 Public Health Forum Online, Jan. 21

Sacramento County will hold an online Zoom Public Health Forum on COVID-19 for the community on Thursday, January 21, featuring a question and answer format with Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye from 6-7:30 pm. This “community conversation” forum format allows the community to get updated on COVID-19 and have the opportunity to ask questions. Advanced registration is required and pre-registered individuals will be sent a link to the Zoom meeting. Register for the COVID-19 Public Health Forums.

01/14/2021 - When Can I Get Vaccinated?  

Sacramento County is currently using the limited allocation of vaccines to inoculate Phase 1a Tier 1 – 3 priority list of workers – healthcare, first responders and congregate care setting staff. The state has also released availability for 65+ residents to request vaccines. At this time, residents who are 65+ should wait to receive more information from their healthcare provider and/or public health regarding vaccination information. Monitor our vaccination webpage for timely updates on new phases, vaccine availability and prioritization of groups.  

Jan. 13 Sacramento County Health Order to Align with Purple/Tier 1

On Jan. 12, the State of California announced that the Greater Sacramento region is permitted to exit the State’s Regional Stay at Home Order with a four week ICU availability projection of 19 percent. Counties in the Greater Sacramento region can resume operating under the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy tier structure. Based on the State’s tier criteria, Sacramento County will be in Tier 1/Purple. Sacramento County Public Health will be issuing an updated Health Order to align with Tier 1/Purple that will be effective Wed. Jan. 13, 2021, that reopens some indoor and outdoor operations under reduced operational capacity. Sacramento County will continue to provide details regarding the updated Health Order. Review the differences between the Regional Order and Purple Tier 1

COVID-19 Public Health Forum Online, Jan. 7

Sacramento County will hold an online Zoom Public Health Forum on COVID-19 for the community on Thursday, January 7, featuring a question and answer format with Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye and Rachel Allen, Sacramento County Public Health Immunization Program Manager from 6-7:30 pm. This “community conversation” forum format allows the community to get updated on COVID-19 and have the opportunity to ask questions. Advanced registration is required and pre-registered individuals will be sent a link to the Zoom meeting. Register for the COV​ID-19 Public Health Forums.​

News Stories​

December​

​​12/31/2020 - Public Health Order Announcement for Sacramento County​ - ​County Health Order Remains in Effect

The State of California will release its official four-week ICU availability projections on Saturday, January 2, regarding the Greater Sacramento Regions eligibility to exit the State’s Regional Stay at Home Order that took effect on Dec. 10, at 11:59 p.m.  However, the State has indicated today in a news release that its Regional Order will likely be extended for the Greater Sacramento Region to help ensure ICU capacity. Independent of the State’s Health Order, Sacramento County’s current Public Health Order that also became effective on Dec. 10 for Sacramento County will remain in effect until it is rescinded​ or amended by the Sacramento County Health Officer​​. ​

12/30/20 - ​Sacramento County Adds New COVID-19 Vaccine Webpage

​The new COVID-19 Vaccine webpage​ will be regularly updated and will provide information about the vaccine, including safety and what phase and tier Sacramento County Public Health is in for the vaccine distribution. ​ ​

12/29/20 - Coronavirus Variant Strain

It’s been reported by the CDC that a variant strain has been found in the U.S. – including in California. For details about the variant strain, visit the CDC website. In the meantime, everyone should use the tools we’ve been using to slow the spread of the virus: stay home as much as possible, socially distance, always wear a mask in public, and do not gather with non-household members.

12/23/20 - ​A Message from County Public Health Officer about Consequences​ of Holiday Gathering
​Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye reports, "Tragically, hospitalizations and deaths are at an all-time high since the pandemic began. Sacramento County was at about 70 cases a day in mid-October. Now, we are averaging over 800 cases a day and that number could surge to 1,000 or more a day in the coming weeks if we don't commit to not gathering with non-household members. We all need to stay home as much as possible, and socially distance and wear a mask when we must be in public spaces." ​​

12/9/20 - Greater Sac in Regional Stay Home Order on Dec. 10​ ​
Today, the State of California announced that the Greater Sacramento region has met the ICU availability criteria of 15 percent or less to trigger the State’s Regional Stay at Home Order​. Sacramento County Public Health has issued an updated Dec. 9, 2020 Sacramento County Health Order that aligns with the State’s Regional Stay at Home Order. The Health Orders will take effect Thursday, Dec. 10, at 11:59 p.m. Once triggered, these orders will remain in effect for at least three weeks. After that period, they will be lifted when a region’s projected ICU capacity meets or exceeds 15 percent. The Health Order restricts all operations of certain sectors such as hair salons, bars and personal care services. While other sectors are only permitted to operate outdoors, such as gyms, and places of worship.  Some essential operations are allowed to operate but may have reduced capacity, such as retail at 20 percent and grocery at 30 percent. Finally, restaurants are only allowed to provide take-out and delivery - no dining indoors or outdoors. The Health Order includes the State's curfew for counties in the Purple Tier 1 and the updated face coverings guidance. Please review the ​December 9, 2020 Health P​ublic Order ​and read the SacCountyNews story on the updated Health Order.

​12/9/20 - Sacramento County Community Survey

Sacramento County would like to hear your thoughts on our current COVID-19 response. Your input will help us determine areas for improvement to our COVID-19 response!​ Participants will have a chance to win one of many $50 Amazon gift cards!​ Get the QR code to the survey here.​ Questions? Contact: VallergaD@saccounty.net.  The survey is available in multiple languages (ArabicHmongRussian​| Simplified Chinese | SpanishVietnamese​) 

​12/7/20 - COVID-19 Vaccine Information

12/2/20 - COVID-19 Public Health Forum Online, Dec. 3 & 17
Sacramento County will hold an online Zoom Public Health Forum on COVID-19 for the community on December 3 & ​17 featuring a question and answer format with Dr. Peter Beilenson, director of Sacramento County’s Department of Health Services and Public Health Officer Dr. Olivia Kasirye from 6-7:30 pm. This “community conversation” ​forum format allows the community to get updated on COVID-19 and have the opportunity to ask questions. Advanced registration is required and pre-registered individuals will be sent a link to the Zoom meeting. Regis​ter for the COVID-19 Public Health Forums.

News Stories

Nov​e​mber

11/16/20 - How to More Safely Celebrate During COVID-19 
Thanksgiving is around the corner, but with COVID-19 cases spiking locally and throughout the U.S., the way we celebrate will need to be different so it’s safer. Sacramento County Public Health and Environmental Management have provided Holiday Guidance to take part in the holiday while reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19, and as always, keeping food safety in mind, too. To get full details of the Holiday Guidance, read the SacCountyNews story.

11/13/20 - ​California Issues ​Travel Advisory for Non-Essential Travel

On Nov. 13, 2020, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a travel advisory for non-essential travel due to a spike in ​COVID-19 cases statewide. People arriving in California from other states or countries, including returning California residents, should practice self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival and limit interactions to immediate household. Californians are encouraged to stay home or in their region and avoid non-essential travel to other states or countries to reduce the risk of virus transmission. Read the CDPH Non-Essential Travel Advisory for details.

11/10/20 - ​Nov. 13 Sacramento County Health Order for Tier 1​

On Nov. 10, the State of California announced new COVID-19 Tier assignments for counties. Due to increasing case rates, Sacramento County will move back to the more restrictive Tier 1 Purple. Effective at noon on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020, the amended Sacramento County Health Order will align with the State’s Pu​​rple Tier 1 for allowable activities, which closes certain indoor operations or reduces operational capacity. Learn more on the Sa​cCountyNews

News Stories​

​October

​10/28/20 - SacCounty Streamlines COVID-19 Contact Tracing Via Email and Text
Sacramento County Public Health is making the COVID-19 case investigation process more efficient by launching a new solution to streamline its COVD-19 contact tracing. The new program powered by Qualtrics allows the department to contact individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 via email or text. The communication will link those positive for COVID-19 with an assessment that gathers contact information for those they have exposed. Public Health then notifies these contacts that they may have been about exposed to the virus and the actions they should take. To learn more read the SacCountyNews story.

​10/27/20 - Housing for the Harvest is a Sacramento County partnership with La Familia to Slow the Spread of COVID-19
Housing for the Harvest provides farm workers or food processing workers who have COVID-19 or been exposed to the virus with a free hotel room to effectively quarantine/isolate to protect their family, co-workers and the community from contact with the COVID-19 virus. Please see the Housing for the Harvest flyer for details in English and Spanish.​

10/19/20 - ​CDC Adds Vaccine-Specific Content to the CDC COVID-19 Website 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added vaccine-specific content to its extensive COVID-19 website. Newly posted resources include information on vaccination planning, how vaccine safety is being ensured, and frequently asked questions. These resources are intended to clarify how COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will be made and how the vaccines will be monitored for safety. CDC anticipates making  updates available ​as vaccines become authorized or approved and recommended for use in the United States.  

​10/13/20 - Schools/Gatherings: Updated SacCounty Health Order
As Sacramento County has been allowed to move further into the State’s less restrictive Red Tier 2 (substantial), the Sacramento County Health Order has been a​mended, effective October 13, at 3 p.m., from its previous Health Order on September 29. The primary updates to the Oct. 13 Sacramento County Health Order on the topics of requirements for in-person learning at all schools and gatherings.​ Read the SacCountyNews story.​​

News Stories​

September​

09/29/20 - Due to Lowering COVID-19 Risk, SacCounty Announces New Health Order for Red Tier 2 

As of September 29, Sacramento County had an adjusted daily case rate of 6.6 per 100,000 and positivity rate of 4​​.6 percent, for the second consecutive week, which meets criteria for placement in Red Tier 2 (substantial). Effective at 3:00 p.m., today, Sept. 29, the Sacramento County Health Order has been amended to move into the State’s less restrictive Red Tier 2 (substantial) from its previous designation of Purple Tier 1 (widespread). Schools in Sacramento County must continue to follow the specific Order issued by the Health Officer on Aug. 28​. Sacramento County must continue to meet criteria for Red Tier 2 for an additional two weeks before allowing all​ schools (transitional kindergarten-12th grade) the option to open for in-person instruction. When this criterion is met, the Health Order for schools will be amended/rescinded. 

09/23/20 - Nail Salons Allowed to Reopen in Sacramento County

Effective September 23, at 3 p.m., Sacramento County will allow nail salons and physician-ordered electrolysis to resum​e indoor operations with modifications while following State of California guidance, the County’s face covering order, strict social distancing protocols and sanitization. To reflect this new change, Sacramento County has ​upda​ted the Public Health Order​​​. ​

09/22/20 - Make Your Plans to Celebrate Halloween in Your Own Neighborhood and Trick-or-Treat Safely ​HappyHalloween.PNG


​09/15/20 - Flu Vaccination Urged During COVID-19 Pandemic 

​Sacramento County Public Health urges everyone to prioritize getting the flu shot this flu season to protect you and your family from the deadly virus. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. Getting a flu vaccine this fall will not only reduce your risk from flu but also help conserve potentially scarce health care resources. Get your free flu vaccination from Sept - Nov. ​​​

News Stories

August ​​​​​

08/31/20 - SacCounty Health Order Amended for New Tier System

A new tiered system of county monitoring and for re-opening of businesses sectors was announced by the Governor. Sacramento County has been placed in Purple/Tier 1 (widespread) for having a daily case count of more than seven per 100,000 people and positivity rate of more than eight percent.  Counties are required to remain in an assigned tier for a minimum of 3 weeks and must meet criteria for the next tier for two consecutive weeks before being able to advance to the next tier. The Health Order for Sacramento County was amended and goes in effect: August 31, 2020 Public Health Order 

Many of the same business sectors remain having "Outdoor Operation Only" -- including restaurants, Hair salons and barbershops; All retail/shopping centers (25% maximum capacity); and Professional sports (without live audiences).

SacCountyNews Story: SacCounty Health Order Amended for New Tier System 

State’s Tier system and specific allowable activities for Sacramento County, go to: https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/​​

08/10/20 - Pop-up Testing Site Announced for Wed., Aug. 12, starting at 8 a.m.​

The CA National Guard will operate a community-based pop-up COVID-19 testing site on Wednesday, August 12 at 8:00 a.m. in Elk Grove, at Elk Grove Regional Park (9950 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624). Testing is first come, first served an​d testing capacity is limited. Testing will be drive-thru only. There are no appointments needed,​ but testing will be on a first-come-first-served basis until daily capacity (100 tests per day) is reached. There are no prerequisites, such as having symptoms, for testing, but residents must be 18 or over and have a valid ID and contact information for test results. Results will be provided to residents within 5 – 7 business days after testing. ​ View the full schedule of all Community-Based Testing Site locations​.​​​

​08/05/2020 - Latest Appointment Information on SacCounty Community COVID-19 Testing Sites

The newest Community-Based Testing Site in Rancho Cordova is now scheduling free COVID-19 testing appointments for Tuesdays. Additionally, St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church Community Testing Site is ramping up to be on the same appointment system, supply chain, and test processing/results through StemExpress as our other Community-Based Testing Sites – expect St. Paul’s sch​eduling information coming soon for appointments every Friday starting Aug. 14! The Sacramento County Department of Health Services has partnered with UC Davis Health, StemExpress and local community agencies to provide these locations for free COVID-19 testing within Sacramento County communities. View the full schedule of all Community-Based Testing Site locations​.​

News Stories

July

07/31/2020 - Sacramento County’s Utilization of the CARES Act Funding

The U.S. Treasury CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund was created to stabilize​ State, Local, and Tribal budgets to manage the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. Sacramento County established a Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) Committee to review and recommend funding that meet specific requirements. View the CARES Act Funding & CRF webpage​ that provides a summary of the spending categories and CARES Act FAQs.  ​​

​​07/31/2020 - Workplace Guidance for Businesses

07/28/2020 - New SacCounty Community COVID-19 Testing Sites

To provide additional locations for free COVID-19 testing in Sacramento County communities, the Sacramento County Department of Health Services has partnered with UC Davis Health, StemExpress and local community agencies at four new sites. Beginning the week of August 3, three new Community-Based Testing Sites will provide COVID-19 testing by appointment in North Highlands, Folsom and Galt. As the fourth new Community-Based Testing Site by appointment, testing will begin on August 11 in Rancho Cordova. View the full schedule of all Community-Based Testing Site locations.

07/14/20 - Community Sites Partner with New Testing Supplier Starting July 20 - COVID-19 Testing Returning to Sacramento Neighborhoods

Sacramento County and UC Davis Health worked to secure needed testing supplies and lab services from StemExpress that will start the week of July 20 at the Community-Based COVID-19 Testing Sites. The re-launch of the partnership provides much-needed service to expand testing that is critical to offer accessible testing led by and within the diverse neighborhoods of Sacramento County.  

Each of the five Community-Based Testing sites to launch next week will have 100 tests per day for this first week starting July 20 to transition to the new system, which is expected to scale up the testing capacity to 1,500.  UC Davis Health will continue collecting the specimens at each test site and StemExpress will host a new registration system for all Community-Based sites that will provide test results. StemExpress is expected to be able to turnaround testing results within 72 hours – providing critical information to patients that may be COVID-19 positive. 

Testing at all Community-Based sites will be by appointment only, and priority will be given to those on waitlists and/or had cancellations. For testing locations and appointment details visit our COVID-19 Testing webpage (appointment scheduling details and link will be updated on 7/16).​​​

News Stories

May

​​COVID-19 Update, May 25

Sacramento County Emergency Renter Protection Act of 2020​​

On Wednesday, March 25, 2020, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors introduced an ordinance related to temporary prohibition of evicting residential tenants due to the impacts of COVID-19, also known as: “Sacramento County Emergency Renter Protection Act of 2020." The Board adopted the ordinance on April 1. The effective date is May 1, 2020.

Retail in Sacramento County

In accordance with the direction provided by the Governor on Thursday, May 7, florists, toy shops, other small businesses and department stores can provide services, as long as those services are limited to curb-side delivery and pickup only. For questions, call the Public Health Hotline at (916) 875-2400.

​Complete COVID-19 Survey and Get Tested. 

Starting May 6, anyone 18 years old or older ​living in Sacramento County can get tested for COVID-19 si​mply by completing the screening survey. Survey participants who complete the screener will be eligible for an appointment at the Mobile Testing Site. Learn more on the Online Screening webpage for COV​ID-19 testing in Sacramento County​. 

Community COVID-19 Testing Sites have also​ opened at the following locations: St. Paul's Missionary Baptist Church; La Familia’s Maple Neighborhood Center; and Robertson Community Center. Learn more on the COVID-19 Testing Sites webpage​


​​COVID19, Closed Schools and Child Abuse Prevention 

​Child abuse prevention is more important than ever because of the disruptions COVID-19 has caused to daily life.  If you see or hear something that causes you concern of suspected child abuse, report it, by calling the Sacramento County Hotline at 916-875-5437 (875-KIDS). If there is immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For more information, read the Sacramento COVID-19 Child Abuse Prevention news story.​

Homeless Response Plan

The Board of Supervisors ​authorized the Department of Human Assistance (DHA) to accept funding from and enter into an agreement with the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency (BCSH) to provide emergency services and support to persons experiencing homelessness in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. For more information read the Sacramento COVID-19 Homeless Plan news story. To learn more about the Sacramento​ COVID-19 Homelessness Response Team and its progress, visit the Responding to Homelessness website.

News Stories:

​​April

​COVID-19 Update, April 29

SacCounty Health Officer Extends COVID-19 Order​

The Sacramento County Public Health Officer​ issued a new Public Health Order effective at 11:59 p.m., May 1, and will be in effect until 11:59 p.m., May 22, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded or amended by the Health Officer. The Public Health Order reinforces the direction for all individuals to stay home and extends the terms of the order to continue social distancing and reducing person-to-person contact to further slow transmission of COVID-19. For questions about the Public Health Order, call the County's COVID-19 Hotline: 916-875-2400, and to report a violation, call 3-1-1.​

COVID-19 Update, April 28

COVID19, Closed Schools and Child Abuse Prevention 

​Child abuse prevention is more important than ever because of the disruptions COVID-19 has caused to daily life. Calls to Child Abuse Hotlines are down since schools discontinued classes in March when the Stay at Home Healt​h Order was issued. Chi​ldren not being able to interact with their teachers and daycare staff who regularly assess them for general wellness. If you see or hear something that causes you concern and you suspect child abuse, report it as quickly as possible, by calling the Sacramento County Hotline at 916-875-5437 (875-KIDS). If there is immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For more information, read the Sacramento COV​ID-19 Child Abuse Prevention news story​.

COVID-19 Update, ​April 7​​

​Homeless Response Plan Adopted by County Board of Supervisors

​The County Board of Supervisors, Sacramento City Council and the Sacramento City/County Continuum of Care are considering actions and funding recommended in the Sacramento COVID-19 Homelessness Response Plan (Homelessness Response Plan).  Sacramento County Board of Supervisors approved the plan today, the City Council will vote tonight.

For more information abo​ut the Sacramento COVID-19 Homeless Plan, read today's news story.

Sacramento County Public Health Officer Extends COVID-19 Order
The Sacramento County Public Health Officer has issued a new Public Health Order effective at 11:59 p.m., April 7, and will be in effect until 11:59 p.m., May 1, 2020.

The Public Health Order reinforces the dire​ction for all individuals to stay home and extends the terms of the order to increase socia​​l distancing and reducing person-to-person contact to further slow transmission of COVID-19.

The new Public​ Health Order has further clarifications and limitations than the previous Order. Those include:

  • Requiring essential businesses to implement social distancing protocols
  • Restricting access to recreation facilities
  • Clarifying essential activities and essential travel
  • Clarifying and limiting essential business activities
  • Directing all businesses and government agencies to cease non-essential operations at physical locations in the County
  • Prohibiting all non-essential gatherings of any number of individuals
  • Continuing to exempt individuals experiencing homelessness from the order but urging them to find shelter and government agencies to provide it

For more information about the Public Health Order, read today's news story, the Public Health Order, and Public H​ealth Order FA​Qs​

COVID-19 Update April​ 6​​​​

COVID-19 Update, ​April 1 ​​Mobile Testing Site Open to Public. 

A Community-Based Testing Site (CBTS) for COVID-19 was set up in Sacramento County in the latter part of March. The site was spearheaded by the California Department of Public Health, Verily, the California Office of Emergency Services and the Governor’s Office in coordination with Sacramento County Public Health. 

Originally, the testing was targeted to people referred through a health care provider. Public Health is now encouraging anyone with mild to moderate symptoms to visit www.projectbaseline.com to be screened for testing. 

Those who meet testing eligibility will be scheduled for a drive-through appointment for free COVID-19 testing and will be sent details by email or phone on how and where to get tested. 

​The COVID-19 testing location is unable to take walk-ins and testing is by appointment only – those not registered will not be tested. Medical care is not provided on site. 

Public Health Hotline Available

Sacramento County Public Health has a COVID-19 hotline available at  ​916-875-2400 for Sacramento County residents. ​Callers to the hotline will receive the following information and transfer options:

  • ​Referrals for frequently asked questions
    • Chinese language referral to 211
    • Russian language referral to 211
    • Media referral to COVIDMedia@saccounty.net
    • Referral to EMD/311 to report bar or restaurant violations of the public health order
    • Referral to CA Department of Labor for employees/employers
    • Sacramento County COVID-19 website: Covid19.saccounty.net 
  • ​Eight transfer options: 
    • Spanish-language line
    • Main SCPH CD number
    • Negative Testing Results
    • Specimen (testing) Collection Appointments
    • General COVID-19 questions
    • Guidance on whether a business is essential or non-essential
    • School Districts, Day Care Center
    • Community Based Organizations and Faith-Based Organizations

COVID-19 Update, ​April 1​​

There are more confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Sacramento County – the cases now total 314 and of those there is additional confirmed deaths, bringing that count to 9. 

​While the case increase was expected, w​hat was not is Sacramento County Public Health’s discovery that approximately one-third of the confirmed cases are linked to gatherings related to churches. Sacramento County is urging – and, not just because the Public Health Order calls for it – all residents, from all faiths and all backgrounds to stay home – lives in our communities depend on it. 

New data also suggests that people may be able to spread the COVID-19 virus 2-3 days before developing symptoms. The possibility of pre-symptomatic transmission makes it important for everyone – even if you feel healthy – to stay home as much as possible, wash your hands often and to stay at least six feet away from others.

“Social distancing works. We must keep our distance from others and not gather with any non-household members. Period. If we do not slow the spread of cases, a surge of sick people could have the potential to overwhelm our hospitals, doctors and equipment resources and could result in additional deaths,” said, Dr. Peter Beilenson, Director of the Department of Health Services.

With people staying home to stagger virus exposure and our hospital systems implementing their surge plans, such as cancelling elective surgeries, these will allow our hospital systems to work optimally to save the most lives.  

While essential businesses remain open, residents should also minimize trips to these businesses, such as going grocery shopping just once a week rather than every day. Sacramento County commends all who have complied with the Public Health Order. However, for the smaller group of individuals, businesses and faith groups that are not following the COVID-19 Public Health Order, the County is working to educate them about the importance of protecting themselves all in our community from COVID-19. 

Beginning today, case numbers on the Sacramento County COVID-19 website will be updated Monday through Friday. With these increasing cases, Sacramento County will share additional data about confirmed cases that is broken down by cities and unincorporated Sacramento County. Right now, the County has COVID-19 cases in all but one city; yet, it is almost certain that the virus is circulating in all our communities. 

Staying home is a strain on everyone, but until there are treatments, enough protective gear for our health care workers and hospital ​beds, staying home is our best tool to slow the spread of the virus and save lives.

The Public Health Order continues to be in effect to slow the spread of the virus. Please take all reasonable means to stay home, and only venture out to public spaces when it is absolutely necessary – and when you must – maintain social distancing at all times. The Public Health Order is available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Russian​

Message of the Day: Approximately one-third of the confirmed cases in Sacramento County are linked to gatherings related to churches. Sacramento County is urging all residents, from all faiths and all backgrounds to stay home. Please see #5 of the Sacramento County Public Health Order​. ​​​

News S​​tories​

March

​COVID-19 Update,​ ​March 30

Since Friday, March 28, there has been an increase of 60 confirmed COVID-19 cases and an additional death in Sacramento County.

As of March 30, at 11:30 a.m., ther​e is a total of 224 confirmed COVID-19 cases, and the number of those who have died of complications of COVID-19 is 7 (Individuals who died from complications of COVID-19 were either age 65+ or had underlying health conditions). 

Ages of all confirmed cases:

  • Age 0-17:  3
  • Age 18-64:  140
  • Age 65+:  81

​There have been confirmed cases in the unincorporated areas as well as in all the cities within Sacramento County, except for Isleton. 

“This data tells us, that regardless if we live in urban, suburban or rural areas, it is imperative that all of us continue to stay home as much as​ possible. When w​e absolutely must go out – whether in your neighborhood or to ​grocery shop – we must maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from each other,” said Dr. Peter Beilenson, Director of the Department of Health Services.​

COVID-19 Update, March 27​

In the last two days, there has been an increase of 51 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Sacramento County. As of March 27, at 11a.m., there is a total of 164 confirmed COVID-19 cases, and those who have died of complications of COVID-19 is 6 (Individuals who died from complications of COVID-19 were either age 65+ or had underlying health conditions). 

While those older than age 65 tend to have more severe complications of COVID-19, the 18-65 year old group in Sacramento County has the highest rate of positive tests. Currently, there are 95 in the 18-65 age range, and for those over 65, there are 66 adults. For the 0-17 group, there are few, at three individuals. The overall average age is 56, and the age spread is 9 and 97 years old. Between the genders, there is less than a 2-percentage point difference, with more males than females testing positive. 

​“Although these numbers are unsettling, they are not surprising,” said Dr. Peter Beilenson, Director of the Sacramento County Department of Health Services. “Together, using social distancing, we are reducing new cases today, which will stagger the rate of cases in the weeks to come.”

If we are to move the needle on reducing new COVID-19 cases, Beilenson says, there are promising models that show an exponential impact on suppressing new cases if we can continue to reduce our social contact as the Health Order directs. 

“A Health Order like this is unprecedented so it is to be expected that there would be a learning curve – but the most important action people can take is to stay home, don’t gather with others, be sure to keep your six foot distance and clean your hands and surfaces often,” said Beilenson. 

​Sacramento County Departments are working to share helpful information. County Regional Parks is doing its part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by implementing precautionary ​measures to keep our parks open and guests safe. The Office of Economic Development is providing support to employers and the workforce through the challenges of COVID-19 by providing an information line and adding new resources for businesses as they become available. As well, Sacramento OES launched a Community Resources page that includes a broad scope of COVID-19 information, from maps with school lunch distribution to signing up for emergency alerts.

​COVID-19 Update, Marc​​​h 25

As COVID-19 testing​ continues to increase, there are more confirmed COVID-19 cases within the community. Sacramento County has 113 confirmed COVID-19 cases, and five who have died from complications of COVID-19. The five individuals who died from complications of COVID-19 were either older than 70 or had underlying health conditions.

​​COVID-19 Update, Marc​​​h 23

Sacramento County has 88 c​​on​firmed COVID-19 cases, and 4 who have died from complications of COVID-19. The four individuals who died from complications of COVID-19 were older than 70 and had underlying health conditions.

​​​​COVID-19 Update, March 20​​

Sacramento County has 53 confirmed COVID-19 cases, and three who have died from complications of COVID-19. Due to the community transmission of this virus in Sacramento County, yesterday, the Sacramento County Health Officer directed all individuals living in the county to stay at their place of residence except for essential activities until at least April 7, 2020. 

Individuals an​d organizations may have questions around:

  1. ​Getting further guidance on whether your business is exempt or non-exempt from the Public Health Officer Order. 
  2. Reporting a violation of the Public Health Officer Order.​

To get further guidance on whether your business is exempt or non-exempt from the Public Health Officer Order:
  • Step 1: If you have not already, please take a look at page 5 of the Public Health Order and this FAQ​ to see if your business is listed as an essential business. 
  • Step 2: If you do not have clarity after reading the FA​Q, go ahead and call 916-875-2002. 
  • Step 3: Our Health Services Team will connect back with you shortly.
To report a violation of the Public Health Officer Order, call 3-1-1.
 

The intent of the Public Health Order is to ensure that the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible, while enabling essential services to continue, to slow the spread of COVID-19 to the maximum extent possible.

The Public Health Order directs that there should not be gatherings in any formal setting – please, see below. To report a violation of the Public Health Officer Order, call 3-1-1. 

  • All bars, wineries and brew-pubs should be closed
  • All in-dining at restaurants should cease (take out and home delivery with social distancing may continue)
  • All gyms should be closed 
  • All bingo halls and card rooms should be closed​

Update for March 19, 2020 - 11:00 a.m.​

As of March 19, 2020, at 11:59 p.m., the Sacramento County Health Officer is directing all individuals living in the county to stay at their place of residence except for essential activities. The legal order is based on the same directives of social distancing issued this week to slow the transmission of the disease, but it provides more detail and enforcement ability. The legal order limits activity, travel and business functions to only the most essential needs and is intended to protect those most vulnerable to the disease, slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, and preserve local healthcare capacity.

The intent of this Order is to ensure that the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence to the maximum extent feasible, while enabling essential services t o continue, to slow the spread of COVID-19 to the maximum extent possible.

All individuals currently living within the County of Sacramento are ordered to stay at home or place of residence. To the degree individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces, they must at all times as reasonably possible maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other person when they are outside their residence. All persons may leave their residences only for Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses. All businesses with a facility in the County, except Essential Businesses, are required to cease all activities at facilities located within the County except Minimum Basic Operations. For definitions, please see the Public Health Order. 

Public Health Order materials:

​​Update for March 17, 2020 - 2:15 p.m.​​

​Updated Directives From Sacramento County Pubic Health

Facts about COVID-19: 

  • As we have had more extensive experience with COVID-19, it is clear that a significant majority of those infected have no or only mild symptoms.
  • With additional testing the number of cases of COVID-19 are growing.
  • The vast majority of these cases are now the result of community spread. 
  • Public health team efforts have been focused on identifying persons with COVID-19, separating them from others, and tracking down persons who were exposed to the infected person. This containment strategy helped to slow the introduction of the virus, but has to be redirected to address the larger number of cases in the region. 
  • Public health staff have shifted their efforts to community mitigation measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect those who are most vulnerable to severe illness. 
  • Although community mitigation measures can be disruptive, these recommendations are to protect the public's health. 

COVID-19 is affecting us all and we are all in this together. The goal for all of us is to protect those who are the most vulnerable from exposure to carriers of COVID-19. We recognize that it would not be possible to list all the essential sites or command how individuals and businesses must carry out these directives. Individuals and employers need to weigh the risk of exposure to the public and operating as usual. In summary, effective immediately and until further notice, Sacramento County public health officials direct the public, to the best of their abilities, implement the following: 

  • Workplac​​es: 
    • Workplaces and businesses should implement telecommuting and teleconferencing for their employees, where appropriate and feasible.
    • Only those employees performing essential duties that cannot be performed by telecommuting should physically come to work
  • Vulnerable Populations: This guidance exempts individuals who work in essential services, such as hospital and health care workers, pharmacists, peace officers, firefighters, staff at skilled nursing facilities and residential care facilities for the elderly, and other essential workers
    • Those aged 65 and older and/or those with chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, heart disease, or lung diseases such as COPD, as well as those with severely weakened immune systems are at highest risk of complications. 
    • People at higher risk should stay home and away from gatherings of un-related individuals
    • Those in the vulnerable populations can go outside (to walk the dog, go on walks or go to the park) provided they are at least six feet from others
  • Less Vulnerable Populations:
    • All those at l​ower risk ​should stay home to the maximum extent possible except when going to essential sites
  • Essential sites INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO :
    • Health Care Facilities
    • Grocery stores
    • Pharmacies
    • Hardware stores/plumbers/electricians for emergency services
    • Businesses that provide food, shelter and social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals
    • Newspapers, television, radio and other media services
    • Gas Stations and auto supply, auto repair and related facilities
    • Banks and related financial institutions
    • Plumbers, electricians, exterminators and others who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation and essential operation of residences
    • Airlines, taxis and other public and  private transportation providers
    • Agriculture, including  food processing and distribution
  • Gathering Places: 
    • No gatherings in any formal setting
    • All bars, wineries and brew-pubs should be closed
    • All in-dining at restaurants should cease; take out and home delivery (with social distancing) may continue
    • All gyms should be closed 
    • All bingo halls and card rooms should be closed
  • Schools: 
    • All Sacramento schools are closed 
  • Sick Persons: 
    • Everyone should stay home if they are sick until they have had no fever, cough or other respiratory symptoms for at least 72 hours after symptoms resolve, or 7 days from when symptoms began, whichever is longer.
    • Anyone who lives with someone who tests positive for COVID-19 should stay home for 14 days.
    • Those with cold-like symptoms who can manage their symptoms at home with over-the-counter-drugs, should do so, regardless of whether they have a cold, the flu, or COVID-19. 
      • If, however, difficulty breathing and lethargy develops, or symptoms were better and then got worse, they should call their healthcare provider, or urgent care center ahead so they can prepare to take care of them. 
      • People should only call 911 or go to an emergency department if they believe that they are extremely sick or their life is in imminent danger. Other emergencies are still occurring, and emergency resources must be available to address all of them, not just COVID-19
  • Masks: Follow CDC's recommendations for using a facemask. 
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. 
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a healthcare facility). 

Update for March 17, 2020 - 10:15 a.m.​

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced yesterday directives to address the need to slow the spread of COVID-19, and Sacramento County urges compliance with those directives.

The Governor's directives​ included: 

  • Prohibiting all gatherings of any size, effective immediately
  • Halting in-person dining at restaurants, while allowing take-out dining to continue
  • New self-isolation guidance for those aged 65 years or older, and those living with chronic health conditions. This guidance exempts individuals who work in essential services, such as hospital and health care workers, pharmacists, peace officers, firefighters, staff at skilled nursing facilities and residential care facilities for the elderly, and other essential workers:
    • Remaining at home until further guidance is issued
    • Continue with outdoor activities
    • Practice social distancing, both in and outside the home
    • Stay in touch with older residents  by phone, email, or other on-line tools (like Skype and Facebook)
    • Identify family, friends, neighbors and caregivers who can provide support
    • Have over-the-counter medicines, prescription medicines and medical supplies (tissues, etc.) on hand
    • Have a plan for if you get sick
    • Practice hand washing
    • Use “respiratory etiquette," such as covering a cough with a  tissue or sleeve, and having tissues and no touch trash cans within reach
    • Clean and disinfect homes to remove germs, and practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces with common cleaning supplies

For more details on the California Department of Public Health's Guidance on self-isolation for older adults and those who​ have elevated risk, read the elevated risk guidance document.

​Update for March 16, 2020​

The California Governor announced directives yesterday to address the need to slow the spread of COVID-19, and Sacramento County urges compliance with these directives. The directives include closing all bars, wineries, brew pubs and night clubs, as they are considered non-essential; that restaurants cut their seating capacity in half but no more than 50 to comply with social distancing requirements; and those who are 65 and older or with chronic underlying health conditions should stay home.  

Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 (65 years and older and/or those with underlying health conditions) should be limited to no more than 10 people – including those at retirement facilities, assisted living facilities, developmental homes, and support groups for people with health conditions. All recommendations will be in place until at least the end of March.

At this time, Sacramento County's level of community transmission or impact of COVID-19 is “minimal to moderate." 

The California State Department of Public Health (CDPH) defines a “gathering" as “any event or convening that brings together people in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, cafeteria, or any other indoor or outdoor space." Visit the CDPH website for its ​guidelines on gatherings​.

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