By Raiza Giorgi
publisher@santaynezvalleystar.com
Six additional cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in the City of Santa Maria as of Sunday, according to Santa Barbara County Public Health officials.
The total number of confirmed cases is 514 and 401 have fully recovered. Although most cases of COVID-19 exhibit mild or moderate symptoms, PHD recommends additional measures to prevent exposure among vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, cancer, immunodeficiency, asthma, COPD and others). PHD recommends that residents, especially those who are vulnerable:
- Stay home except for essential tasks. Ensure you have a two-week supply of medication on hand.
- When engaging in essential tasks away from home, remain 6 feet away from others and wear a facial covering.
- Wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Keep surfaces clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant
The ages of the new cases range from 18 to over 70 years old. 51 people are recovering at home, 42 are in the hospital with 17 in the ICU and 12 are pending an update, health officials reported.
Please visit Santa Barbara County’s coronavirus web page for other preparedness resources and updates at https://publichealthsbc.org/.
For general questions about COVID-19 and precautions currently recommended by Santa Barbara County Public Health, residents may call the 2-1-1 Call Center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialing 2-1-1 if calling from within the county; or (800) 400-1572 if calling from outside the area.
