Second confirmed case of COVID-19 in Santa Barbara County

The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department (PHD) is confirming another positive case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a north county resident. This is the second confirmed case in Santa Barbara County.

The person identified is in their 50’s and does not have underlying health conditions. The individual is recovering in isolation at home until cleared by the Public Health Officer. PHD is taking steps to identify persons who may have had close contact with this person, including friends, family members, or health care professionals. PHD will monitor them and take appropriate measures, including testing for infection, if needed.

This person has no history of travel within or outside the United States, but did have contact with someone confirmed to have COVID-19. This second case did not have contact with Santa Barbara County’s first confirmed case. PHD will notify the public immediately should the investigation indicate any further action or if additional precautions are needed.

“The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department Barbara County is continuing to mandate social distancing measures to slow the spread of the virus. We are asking our residents to avoid unnecessary outings and practice diligent distancing of 6 feet or more between persons when in the community, shared Dr. Henning Ansorg, Health Officer for Santa Barbara County.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19. Find more information about home care and current criteria used for COVID-19 testing countywide here.

Since human coronaviruses most commonly spread through respiratory droplets, community members are reminded to take measures to prevent the spread of respiratory illness:

•   Wash your hands with soap and water

•   Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands

•   Avoid close contact with people who are sick

•   Stay away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory

  symptoms like fever and cough

•   Keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, and toys for

  children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant.

  For more information about COVID-19 and PHD’s response, please visit www.publichealthsbc.org or call the County Call Center Monday through Friday 8a.m. – 5p.m. at (833) 688-5551.