Corona Virus Basics – Links to Resource Pages
Staying up to date with current factual information can help ease any anxiety or stress about the situation. Text “coronavirus” or “covid19” to 211211 for information on how the illness spreads, prevention & treatment, symptoms and more. Texters may share their zip code to be directed toward websites with local information where available. If you are unable to text, call 211 or 800.833.2900
Contra Costa Health Services is updating a webpage with information here. This page is updated with new information as it becomes available.
We are updating this post as information is made available from Contra Costa Health Services. .Información en Español aquí.
The CDC is updating a robust site with information and answers to commonly asked questions here.
March 16, 2020
Today the Bay Area Health Directors will issue a Joint Order that will significantly impact all of the Bay Area. The Order will require:
- ALL PERSONS TO SHELTER AT THEIR PLACE OF RESIDENCE OTHER THAN TO PROVIDE OR RECEIVE ESSENTIAL SERVICES.
- DIRECTING ALL BUSINESSES TO CEASE NON-EXEMPT OPERATIONS AT PHYSICAL LOCATIONS.
- PROHIBITING ALL NON-ESSENTIAL GATHERINGS OF ANY NUMBER OF PERSONS.
- ORDERING CESSATION OF ALL NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL
While the Order is mandatory, the expectation is that most people and business will comply to ensure the safety of everyone.
Keep in mind that the outcome desired is to “flatten the curve” of the virus so as not to overwhelm health care systems and facilities.
There are numerous Definitions and Exemptions to the Order to allow for “essential activities” for individuals and business to insure the health and safety of our communities.
Bay Area Health Departments are drafting FAQs to cover as many of the most immediate questions as possible, but we know that there will be many questions that we can’t answer initially.
The press conference will be carried live on Santa Clara County Public Health’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sccpublichealth
The Order will be effective at midnight March 16, 2020, and remain in effect until April 7, 2020, but may be extended.
What is
Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The virus spreading from Wuhan, China currently is known as a “novel coronavirus” meaning it is a strain of virus not previously seen in humans. This virus presents as an upper respiratory illness with symptoms similar to the common flu and is spreading person-to-person. The virus has caused death but cases have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness depending on a variety of factors that are not yet fully known.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms are similar to those of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Because of the similarity to flu symptoms, the CDC is recommending that people who have recently traveled or been in contact with someone who has recently traveled outside of the U.S. and starts experiencing these symptoms to contact a health professional for guidance.
What does CDC recommend people do to prevent spreading the virus?
The CDC recommends taking steps extreme precautions to prevent illness. Wash your hands regularly, avoid contact with people who have recently traveled outside of the country, and follow directions of local health departments.
Here are some handy resources from the CDC to share. Help everyone stay calm and healthy.
Call 211 if you have questions. We are here 24/7.
Volunteer Ideas
Click here for Volunteer Ideas
Bay Area Stay-at-Home Order
See Press Release: Bay Area Health Officers Issue Updated Stay-at-Home Order with New Restrictions to Last Through May 3, 2020. According to the release, more time and additional restrictions are needed to slow the spread and reduce future impact on local hospitals from COVID-19.
See Health Officer Order Through May 3 (PDF). Read the Summary of New Shelter Order for further clarification.
