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 nine.
While the case increase was expected, what 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 canceling 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.
