Santa Ana's top news & views blog

New Santa Ana

Call us if you have a question

Category Archives: Health and Medical

This week’s Cochino List includes Tram Chim Restaurant and Hoa An Quan

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of Sept. 1 to Sept. 10. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Tram Chim Restaurant, 10131 Westminster Ave., Suite 114, Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 9, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Mom & Kid Nutrition, 12023 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 7, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Hoa An Quan, 14291 Euclid St., Suite D-101, Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 1, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 2
  • Teo Sandwiches, 14014 Magnolia St., Suite 1-C, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 7, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 10
  • Miss Donuts & Yogurt, 2200 Harbor Blvd., Suite E-170, Costa Mesa, Closed: Sept. 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Mama K’s, 10450 Beach Blvd., Suite 108, Stanton, Closed: Sept. 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation,
  • G’s Boat House, 200 Main St., Suite 101-A, Huntington Beach, Closed: Sept. 7, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Subway, 7907 Knott Ave., Buena Park, Closed: Sept. 8, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Huntington Beach Beer Co., 201 Main St., Suite E, Huntington Beach, Closed: Sept. 7, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Las Venaditas Bar, 2660 W. Lincoln Ave., Anaheim, Closed: Sept. 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 8
  • Update: Mogu Mogu at 2969 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed Sept. 1 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 3.
  • Update: Hotties Pizza at 440 Fair Drive, Suite B, Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed Aug. 31 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 3.
  • Update: Big Chopsticks at 25098 Marguerite Parkway, Suite A, Mission Viejo, which was ordered closed Aug. 26 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Aug. 31.

Second Be Well OC Campus and System of Care Data Integration Solution to be funded by the State

Posted on by Posted in Health and Medical, Orange County Leave a comment

Santa Ana, Calif. (August 20, 2021) – The County of Orange has received funding from the State of California to support the County’s Be Well mental health initiative along with funding for data integration. in the upcoming year.

Chairman Andrew Do of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, First District Supervisor, who championed both funding request efforts for the County stated, “The funding for another Be Well OC treatment facility and data integration system to coordinate services will help the County build an effective behavioral health system that has been lacking for too long. With the first Be Well OC campus in the City of Orange at full capacity, a second campus will expand our ability to provide much needed mental health services for all Orange County’s residents. Data integration allows County staff across departments to access relevant information for coordination and delivery of services to better meet the needs of individuals utilizing these services.”

Senator Tom Umberg (D-Santa Ana) and Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Laguna Beach) were integral in securing state support to the County’s second Be Well Campus. Thanks to their efforts, the project will receive $5 million dollars for a second service location to be built in the City of Irvine. Resources provided will include clinical services as well as residential services for mental illness and substance use to treat both adults and youth. The County of Orange is dedicated to educating the community and providing access to services by establishing multiple service locations to address increased demand for mental health and substance use disorder services.

“The second Be Well location is another step in developing a mental health system for our community that provides multifaceted treatment and we are optimistic that a second campus will continue the transformation of mental health and substance use care in Orange County and be a resource for people in need of assistance,” said Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, Supervisor, Fourth District. “I am also excited that we also received funding to enhance data integration across care programs to improve the quality of care and connection to services that we offer our residents.”

The County of Orange will also receive $2 million dollars to invest in a system of care data integration for care coordination thanks to the work and support of Senator Pat Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) and Senator Tom Umberg (D-Santa Ana). Currently the County operates five different systems of care and programs across various departments including health care, behavioral health, community corrections, housing and benefits and support services. To most effectively and efficiently coordinate care and treatment of vulnerable residents who are consistently crossing multiple systems of care, the County is developing a software solution for a coordinated data-sharing platform allowing information sharing among service providers, County departments and external stakeholders.

“We greatly appreciate the efforts of Senator Umberg and Assemblymember Petrie-Norris to secure funding for these two critical projects,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley, Second District. “ I have known both legislators for many years and was pleased to see our advocacy efforts pay dividends for our taxpayers. The second Be Well campus will allow more Orange County residents to have access to mental health and wellness services, while the data integration project will allow for more information sharing between our county agencies to better assess the needs and assist our most vulnerable residents.”

Services at the second Be Well location will also include wellness and social services, crisis stabilization units, substance use disorder intake and referrals, withdrawal management, and substance use disorder and co-occurring residential treatment, all of which are a critical need for the community.

“This is great news for our County. The Be Well campus in my district in Irvine, and we are fulfilling our promise to provide critical resources for Orange County residents who need mental health care. The Be Well model can inspire communities throughout California and our nation, while changing the future on how we treat mental health,” said Supervisor Donald Wagner, Third District. “The County also received funding to update technology that will increase efficiency from check-in to discharge and beyond.”

Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett stated, “Mental health care continues to be a top priority for me, and this funding is critical to our efforts to provide a comprehensive system of care to all Orange County residents regardless of their ability to pay. We now have the opportunity to not only build a second facility, but also streamline services and resources across County departments through a robust data integration system.”

Concurrently, for each system of care within the County, there are several departments providing services and assistance to the specific population. Today, each department maintains its own data-gathering and reporting structure and is responsible for the maintenance, privacy, security and integrity of the information. The plan to invest in a solution that allows for integration and communication across systems of care is fundamental in improving services.

“Our neighbors need help. Countless Orange County residents are struggling with the compounding challenges of homelessness, substance use disorder, and unaddressed mental health issues. These conditions do not occur in a vacuum—they are interrelated,” said Senator Tom Umberg. “I am proud to collaborate with the County of Orange and Be Well Orange County to secure $5 million in state funding for a behavioral health wellness campus that will deliver coordinated behavioral health services to all Orange County residents.”

“While the scale of the homelessness crisis is staggering, we have the strategies, resources and will to solve it,” said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris. “By securing state funding for a second Orange County Be Well mental health center we are streamlining resources to provide our community proven care to address the underlying issues of mental illness and substance abuse. In this public-private partnership we can act now to save lives and heal our communities.”

“I am pleased that the bipartisan effort that I led to include vital funding for Orange County has been secured in the state budget. The funding will facilitate the assessment and linkage of homeless Californians to housing and supportive services within the county. By increasing data sharing among public agencies, we will be able to better help vulnerable residents access the care and services they need,” said Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel).

The second of three planned campuses, Be Well Campuses are the outcome of a public-private partnership that began with the Orange County Board of Supervisors Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee in 2015, comprised of Chairman Andrew Do and Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, examining behavioral health services in Orange County.

“The shared vision and the shared commitment to actualize the vision remains. Orange County is creating a world-class system of mental health care for all residents, and we are doing it today. We are grateful to the many elected leaders and so many in our community joining together to make this vision a reality,” said Richard Afable M.D., M.P.H., President and Board Chair, MindOC / Be Well Orange County.

The City of Santa Ana will consider civic childcare centers and a health agency

Posted on by Posted in Civic Affairs, Health and Medical, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The Santa Ana City Council this week approved agreements to provide childcare services at two community centers and conduct a feasibility study on creating a municipal public health agency.

These are two of the first programs to move forward under the Revive Santa Ana pandemic recovery initiative.

Revive Santa Ana, which is funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), is designed to provide short-term financial and health assistance as well as address long-term health, education, youth and other service needs in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In July, the City Council approved a spending plan for the first, $80 million phase of the initiative.

On Tuesday, Aug. 17, the City Council authorized the City Manager to execute a facilities use agreement with Training and Research Foundation to operate childcare centers at Corbin Community Center and El Salvador Community Center, through Aug. 31, 2026. This program fits into one of the City Council’s priorities in Revive Santa Ana of providing more early childhood education opportunities for Santa Ana families.

The City Council also authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with Health Management Associates, Inc. to provide feasibility and fiscal evaluation services for a municipal public health agency, for a total project cost not to exceed $200,000. The Council included this in Revive Santa Ana in order to explore whether the City of Santa Ana could create its own health agency and not have to depend on the Orange County Health Care Agency for services such as COVID-19 testing and vaccination.

Childcare Centers

The Training and Research Foundation (TRF) is a non-profit organization that serves low-income preschool children and families by providing school readiness services that include education, health and nutrition. The childcare that TRF provides is crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic for parents who need to return to the workforce.

The agreement between the City and TRF offers the usage of the Corbin and El Salvador community centers for a wide variety of services. TRF will provide services to children up to age 3 who are Santa Ana residents, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. TRF will be able to serve 65 to 75 infants and toddlers based on this agreement, with class sizes consisting of 6 to 12 infants or toddlers.

Eligibility for these services will be done through applications reviewed by TRF, which will determine the criteria of need for services of Santa Ana residents. A proper recruitment process will also be done by TRF, which will include a community information session and the creation of a waiting list for interested family members.

Health Agency Study

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised community and public awareness of the importance of public health agencies. This unprecedented pandemic has also raised the expectations for public health departments to address substantial local health inequities amongst jurisdictions in Orange County.

The City of Santa Ana, like many other California jurisdictions, is considering whether the current public health delivery structure is meeting the needs of its residents. Currently, the County of Orange provides all public health services to County residents, including Santa Ana.

Under California law, municipalities have responsibilities for public health functions, but they can transfer this authority to counties. Most communities have chosen to do this due to the extent of the duty, required infrastructure, and associated expenses. Four California cities have their own health departments: Pasadena, Long Beach, Vernon and Berkeley.

The feasibility and fiscal evaluation for a municipal health agency for the City of Santa Ana is expected to be completed in about eight months and will be presented to the City Council.

More information on the childcare program and the results of the study will be on the Revive Santa Ana webpage when available.

California implements nation-leading vaccine verification measure for large events

Posted on by Posted in California, Disease, Health and Medical, Public Safety Leave a comment

SACRAMENTO – Today, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) strengthened requirements already in effect for mega events in the Beyond the Blueprint Framework, announcing that proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before an event starts, will be required for indoor gatherings where 1,000 or more participants or spectators are attending. Currently, verification of being vaccinated or a pre-entry negative test is necessary where there are 5,000 or more persons for an indoor event.

“The Delta variant has proven to be highly transmissible, making it easier to spread in large crowds where people are near each other for long periods of time,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer. “By requiring individuals to be vaccinated, or test negative for COVID-19 at large events, we are decreasing the risk of infection, hospitalization and death.”

Beyond dropping the requirement from 5,000 to 1,000 individuals, self-attestation to verify a person’s vaccination status will no longer be accepted. The aforementioned changes will remain in place until November 1, 2021.

In recent weeks, California has led the nation in implementing measures to increase vaccinations and slow the spread In recent weeks, California has led the nation in implementing measures to increase vaccinations and slow the spread of COVID-19, including:

  • Vaccine verification for school staff. Requires all school staff to either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week.
  • Vaccine verification for state workers. Requires all state workers to either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week, and encourages local governments and other employers to adopt a similar protocol. Following California’s announcement, some of the largest California businesses and local governments followed suit, as did the federal government.
  • Vaccinations for health care workers. Requires workers in health care settings to be fully vaccinated or receive their second dose by September 30, 2021.
  • Universal masking in K-12 settings. Aligned with guidance from the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics, California was the first state to implement universal masking in school settings to keep students and staff safe while optimizing fully in-person instruction.
  • Medi-Cal vaccination incentives. $350 million in incentive payments to help close the vaccination gap between Medi-Cal beneficiaries and Californians as a whole, significantly stepping up outreach in underserved communities.
  • Statewide mask recommendation. In response to the spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations and new CDC guidance calling for masking, the state recommended mask use for indoor public settings regardless of vaccination status.

Since first implementing these measures on July 26, California has administered nearly 1 million new first doses. California has led the nation in implementing vaccination and safety measures. California leads the nation in vaccinations, with more than 46 million doses administered and 78 percent of the eligible population having received at least one dose. California remains committed to increasing vaccination rates and urges businesses and local communities to encourage vaccination.

Today’s announcement is supported by leaders in the events and arts sectors who are committed to making larger events safer for their attendees while encouraging more people to get vaccinated.

“We are pleased to see the Newsom Administration take proactive steps to support the arts and live events industries to keep audiences, performers and workers safe as we continue to battle the spread of COVID. The arts have always led with safety first and it is imperative that for every community’s economic, social, and emotional recovery, we must do everything we can to allow for secure gatherings. We implore Californians to get vaccinated and follow public health mandates so we can all enjoy the benefits of arts, culture and creativity and our sector can get back to work,” said Julie Baker, Executive Director of Californians for the Arts.

“Vaccination and health check requirements ensure everyone can continue enjoying live music while also encouraging even more people to go get vaccinated, which is why Live Nation has made this the standard at our venues and festivals across the country. We fully support California’s efforts and will stay in lockstep to keep bringing live music back to the Golden State,” said Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment.

“Today’s announcement adds another layer of protection to make our State, our venues and our communities safer. Our fans, our team members and our families all want to feel as protected as possible from COVID-19 while enjoying our favorite concerts and sporting events. We are proud to partner with public health officials to continue to play a role in encouraging those who haven’t gotten vaccinated to follow the advice of the medical experts,” said Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians age 12 and up can go to myturn.ca.gov or COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians age 12 and up can go to myturn.ca.gov or call (833) 422-4255 to schedule an appointment or go to myturn.ca.gov/clinic to find a walk-in clinic in their county.

Click here to get your official California Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record.

Statewide COVID-19 Data as of Today 

  • California has 4,057,724 confirmed cases to date. Numbers may not represent true day-over-day change as reporting of test results can be delayed.
  • There were 14,317 newly reported confirmed cases Tuesday.
  • Cases are increasing statewide, largely among unvaccinated populations.
  • For the week of August 9 – August 15, the average case rate among unvaccinated Californians is 51 per 100,000 per day and the average case rate among vaccinated Californians is significantly lower at 7.6 per 100,000 per day.
  • The vast majority of new cases are among the unvaccinated with 500% higher case rates among the unvaccinated than for those who are vaccinated.
  • The 7-day positivity rate is 6.1%.

Third dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines recommended for immunocompromised persons

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

On April 13, 2021 the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after completing their two-dose series. The CDC media statement can be found here.

This recommendation comes after FDA modified the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) on August 12, 2021 for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to allow for administration of a third dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after an initial 2-dose primary mRNA COVID-19 vaccine series for certain immunocompromised people (i.e., people who have undergone solid organ transplantation or have been diagnosed with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise).

Key Recommendations for Providers

Moderately to severely immunocompromised patients should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 28 days after a second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

Additional Recommendations

  • The age groups authorized to receive the additional dose are unchanged from those authorized to receive the primary vaccination series:
  • Pfizer-BioNTech: aged ≥12 years
  • Moderna: aged ≥18 years
  • When presenting to a medical provider for receipt of the third dose, the CDC and OCHCA recommend that patients be allowed to self-attest that they have a qualifying medical condition without need of a doctor’s note.
  • Ideally individuals who qualify should be vaccinated with the same vaccine as they received during their first and second dose. However, if that is not possible, receiving a third dose with another mRNA vaccine is acceptable.
  • An additional vaccine dose is not currently recommended by the CDC for immunocompromised persons who received a single dose of the J&J vaccine. The FDA continues to evaluate data on the effectiveness of this vaccine for immunocompromised individuals.
  • There is no indication for checking SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers either prior to, or post vaccination, in any individuals
  • CDC does not recommend additional doses or booster doses for any other population at this time.
  • While receiving a third COVID-19 mRNA vaccine dose is likely to increase protection in these patients, as a group they will remain at elevated risk for severe COVID-19. Even after receiving this dose, people who are immunocompromised should continue to take prevention measures including wearing a mask, staying 6 feet apart from others they do not live with, and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces to protect themselves and those around them against COVID-19.

Background

People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised make up about 3% of the adult population and are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 because they are more at risk of serious, prolonged illness. Indications for a third mRNA dose include:

  • Active treatment for solid tumor and hematologic malignancies
  • Receipt of solid-organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy
  • Receipt of CAR-T-cell or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within 2 years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy)
  • Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
  • Advanced or untreated HIV infection
  • Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids (i.e., ≥20mg prednisone or equivalent per day), alkylating agents, antimetabolites, transplant-related immunosuppressive drugs, cancer chemotherapeutic agents classified as severely immunosuppressive, tumor-necrosis (TNF) blockers, and other biologic agents that are immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory.

Additional Information

CDC has posted guidance regarding the use of an additional mRNA COVID-19 vaccine dose for immunocompromised people here, and information to assist with discussion of this recommendation with patients here.

For questions or concerns, please contact the Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180.

This week’s Cochino List includes Subway Sandwiches

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of Aug. 5 to Aug. 13. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Subway, 3548 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, Closed: Aug. 6, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 6
  • 7 Leaves Cafe, 2429 W. Ball Road, Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 10, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 12
  • Big Chopsticks, 4953 Lincoln Ave., Cypress, Closed: Aug. 12, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Snack bar at The Rinks Yorba Linda Ice, 23641 La Palma Ave., Yorba Linda, Closed: Aug. 11, Reason: Insufficient hot water
  • Wienerschnitzel, 6131 Lincoln Ave., Buena Park, Closed: Aug. 5, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: Aug. 6
  • Sizzler, 10471 Los Alamitos Blvd., Los Alamitos, Closed: Aug. 5, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 8

Orange County expands early childhood mental health consultation services

Posted on by Posted in Andrew Do, Health and Medical, Mental Health, OC Health Care, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Orange County is expanding Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation services for children up to eight years old.
 
“Children have experienced unexpected stressors as a result of the pandemic,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “As students return to the classroom this fall, for the first time in over a year for many, parents and teachers must work together with mental health professionals to improve their student’s social, emotional, and behavioral health and development.”
 
On August 10th, the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an amendment to the contract with Charitable Ventures of Orange County to increase the early childhood mental health consultation services to children up to eight years old. Chairman Andrew Do, seconded by Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, proposed to include an additional $5 million dollars in funding from the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA).
 
Early childhood mental health consultation is a prevention-based service that educates and builds the capacity of staff, programs, and systems in childcare settings to prevent, identify, treat, and reduce the impact of mental health problems among young children and their families.
 
“We saw how young children faced many challenges over the past year such as disruptions to their daily routines, adjusting to virtual learning, and missing seeing their friends and family,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee, Vice Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “This prevention-focused approach will help strengthen their social and emotional wellbeing during the pandemic and beyond.”
 
Under the approved amendment, Charitable Ventures, an Orange County-based nonprofit, will support the community’s increased need for services to families with young children. These services will be provided by mental health consultants who have extensive knowledge in trauma, adverse childhood experiences, challenging behaviors, and social and emotional skills development and can appropriately train childcare educators.
 
Training will be offered at early childhood education sites, community-based organizations, as well as virtually for a period of three to six months.
 
“These services will equip our early childhood providers, school districts, and local community youth leaders with the proper knowledge and training needed to ensure healthy development in young children despite the stressors they may be experiencing,” added Supervisor Do.
 
From July 2020 to April 2021, Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation services reached over 1,500 children in Orange County. With an anticipated increase in urgency for mental and emotional assistance in response to the pandemic, these services aim to double and reach at least 3,000 children by 2022.
 
“It’s critical that we continue to train educators, faculty, and members of the community across Orange County to recognize and identify signs of mental or behavioral issues in students and connect them to resources,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee.
 
In 2020, the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved their first contract for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant services with Charitable Ventures. Since then, Chairman Do and Vice Chairman Chaffee have continued to improve the realm of mental health in Orange County through numerous measures.

Orange County Chairman Andrew Do represents the First District communities of Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Westminster, Fountain Valley, and Midway City. In addition to health and safety-based COVID-19 response planning, he has reformed Orange County’s mental health services, expanded access to health care, and led efforts to combat homelessness

Orange County Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee represents the Fourth District, which includes the cities of Fullerton, La Habra, Brea, Placentia, and portions of Anaheim and Buena Park. In his first term, Vice Chairman Chaffee has combatted homelessness by supporting the creation of and allocating funding to the Buena Park and Placentia Navigation Centers and during the COVID-19 pandemic, he provided more than $15 million to small businesses in the Fourth District and school Districts in the Fourth District with technology grants to assist students with distance learning during the pandemic.

The first West Nile Virus positive mosquito sample of the year has been identified in Orange County

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Fullerton, Health and Medical, Orange County, Orange County Vector Control District Leave a comment

Orange County’s first West Nile Virus (WNV) positive mosquito samples of the season were identified last week in Fullerton through routine trapping and testing by the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD).

NV positive mosquito samples have been identified in Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside County this year.

St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) was detected in five mosquito pools in Riverside County last week for the first time in 2021.

One human case of WNV was reported two weeks ago from Los Angeles County.

No human infections of WNV or SLEV have been identified so far this season in Orange County.

West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental United States, according to the CDC.  It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, which starts in the summer and continues through fall.

There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV in people. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.

You can reduce your risk of WNV by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito bites.

$4M Health Equity and Literacy Grant awarded to the City of Santa Ana

Posted on by Posted in Civic Affairs, Federal Government, Health and Medical, Literacy, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The City of Santa Ana has been awarded a $4 million federal health equity and literacy grant to help underserved populations get better access to health services and information in response to COVID-19.

The two-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) will allow for the rapid expansion of current and planned services to increase COVID-19 testing and vaccination, reduce gaps in vaccination and other health disparities, and improve health literacy-related outcomes for low-income, medically underserved patients in and around Santa Ana. Health literacy is a person’s ability to find, understand and use information and services to help them make health-related decisions for themselves and others.

“This grant will be an essential tool to bridge the health equity gap that affects much of our community,” Santa Ana Mayor Vicente Sarmiento said. “Our residents live in some of the most densely populated neighborhoods in California, and many are frontline workers and immigrants, all of which has contributed to higher COVID-19 case and death rates. The pandemic isn’t over yet, so we can’t let up in our efforts to protect the people of Santa Ana.”

The City’s $4 million grant is part of a $250 million, two-year federal initiative to identify and implement best practices for improving health literacy to enhance COVID-19 vaccination and other mitigation practices among underserved populations. The Advancing Health Literacy (AHL) to Enhance Equitable Community Responses to COVID-19 initiative is part of President Biden’s National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness.

Over the next two years, the City of Santa Ana will work with local community-based organizations to develop a health literacy plan to increase the availability, acceptability, and use of COVID-19 public health information and services by racial and ethnic minority populations. The initiative is called Health Equity and Literacy in OC (HEAL-OC). The projects will focus on populations considered vulnerable for not receiving and using COVID-19 public health information.

Grant recipients are also expected to leverage local data to identify racial and ethnic minority populations at the highest risk for health disparities and low health literacy, as well as populations not currently reached through existing public health campaigns.

Over the two-year term of the grant, the City is awarding funding to the following local community organizations, as approved by the City Council, that will help in providing health services and education:

Coalition of OC Community Health Centers: $1.2 million
Latino Health Access: $910,000
Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance, Inc. (working with several other Asian outreach organizations): $800,000
University of California, Irvine (UCI): $689,804
“The Advancing Health Literacy initiative is a vital part of the HHS efforts to help communities hardest hit by the pandemic access and understand COVID-related information,” said Assistant Secretary for Health, Dr. Rachel L. Levine, M.D. “This funding, and the partnerships with local and community entities across the country, will help our national efforts to continue to tackle health disparities surrounding COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and treatment.”

Health literacy is a central focus of the Healthy People 2030 blueprint for improving the health of the nation, which is sponsored by the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health. Healthy People 2030 has elevated health literacy within one of its overarching goals: Eliminate health disparities, achieve health equity, and attain health literacy to improve the health and well-being of all.

For more information about OMH, visit minorityhealth.hhs.gov.

About the Office of Minority Health

The Office of Minority Health (OMH) is dedicated to improving the health of racial and ethnic minority populations through the development of health policies and programs that will help eliminate health disparities.

About Santa Ana

Santa Ana is downtown for the world famous Orange County, California. It is the County Seat, the second-most populous city in Orange County, and is home to a vibrant evening scene and arts community. Over 1,200 City employees work hard every day to deliver efficient public services in partnership with our community to ensure public safety, a prosperous economic environment, opportunities for our youth, and a high quality of life for residents. Learn more at www.santa-ana.org.

This week’s Cochino List inclues El Carbonero and El Tapatio

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of July 29 to Aug. 6. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • El Carbonero, 803 S. Main St., Santa Ana, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 4
  • El Tapatio Restaurant, 1214 E. Pomona St., Santa Ana, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 3
  • Bo Ke Restaurant, 12921 Fern St., Suites A-C, Garden Grove, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: Aug. 3
  • Quan Ngon, 8851 Garden Grove Blvd., Suite 115, Garden Grove, Closed: Aug. 2, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: Aug. 3
  • S&J Gran Cafe, 12835 Harbor Blvd., Suite E-6, Garden Grove, Closed: Aug. 4, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 5
  • Ajisen Ramen, 2700 Alton Parkway, Suite 145, Irvine, Closed: Aug. 4, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Zankou Chicken, 2424 W. Ball Road, Suite T, Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: Aug. 3
  • Tacos & Co., 3601 Jamboree Road, Suite B-6, Newport Beach, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 4
  • Hong Kong Banjum at A.R Mart, 1701 W. Orangethorpe Ave., Suite 108, Fullerton, Closed: Aug. 3, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 5
  • Pho May, 10503 Valley View St., Cypress, Closed: July 30, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 31
  • SeaLegs at the Beach, 17851 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, Closed: July 29, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 30
  • Update: Belinda’s Taqueria and Restaurant at 6072 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, which was ordered closed July 29 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 30.
  • Update: Wienerschnitzel at 1951 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed July 29 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen July 30.
  • Update: King Pollo at 530 N. State College Blvd., Anaheim, which was ordered closed July 28 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Aug. 5.

This week’s Cochino List includes WaBa Grill

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of July 23 to July 30. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • WaBa Grill, 1215 E. Warner Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 26, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 26
  • Update: Los Cristales at 1638 S. Standard Ave., Santa Ana, which was ordered closed July 20 because of insufficient hot water, was allowed to reopen July 26.
  • Update: Oasis Nutrition at 431 E. First St., Suite 4-K, Santa Ana, which was ordered closed July 20 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 26.
  • Update: Hamamori at South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Suite 320, Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed July 21 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 23.
  • Wok-In, 2394 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, Closed: July 26, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 28
  • Wienerschnitzel, 1951 Harbor Blvd., Costa Mesa, Closed: July 29, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Artist Restaurant, 14281 Brookhurst St., Suite A, Garden Grove, Closed: July 28, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 28
  • Tai Chi Cuisine, 5414 Walnut Ave., Suite A, Irvine, Closed: July 26, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: July 26
  • Update: On The Rocks Bar & Grill at 12752 Valley View St., Suite V, Garden Grove, which was ordered closed July 17 because of fire or other disaster damage, was allowed to reopen July 27.
  • Belinda’s Taqueria and Restaurant, 6072 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, Closed: July 29, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • King Pollo, 530 N. State College Blvd., Anaheim, Closed: July 28, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Hot-N-Chili, 111 W. Avenida Palizada, Suite 305, San Clemente, Closed: July 28, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 29
  • Super Torta, 1151 N. Euclid St., Suite N, Anaheim, Closed: July 28, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 30
  • Update: Creamistry at 26841 Aliso Creek Road, Suite B, Aliso Viejo, which was ordered closed July 16 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 23.

The State of CA is recommending masking indoors again for everyone including the vaccinated

Posted on by Posted in California, Disease, Health and Medical, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SACRAMENTO – In response to the spike in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and new CDC guidance calling for masking measures to prevent the spread of the highly transmissible and deadly Delta variant, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated its Guidance for Face Coverings, recommending mask use for indoor public settings, regardless of vaccination status.

“The Delta variant has caused a sharp increase in hospitalizations and case rates across the state. We are recommending masking in indoor public places to slow the spread while we continue efforts to get more Californians vaccinated,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer.

Under the CDC’s new guidance, more than 90% of California’s population is currently in areas designated as substantial or high transmission.

According to the CDC, getting vaccinated helps protect from the virus and the circulating variants, including the Delta variant that is now seen in the majority of California’s new cases.

California continues to work to increase vaccination rates across the state. This week, California took the nation-leading step of requiring state and health care employees to provide proof of vaccination or submit to regular testing. California had also led with its K-12 school guidance, requiring universal masking and other prevention measures as schools fully open for the upcoming school year.

CDPH is continuing to motivate businesses and local communities to encourage vaccination to prevent new outbreaks in areas of substantial and high transmission.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians can go to myturn.ca.gov or call (833) 422-4255 to schedule their appointment or go to myturn.ca.gov/clinic to find a walk-in clinic in their county.

This week’s Cochino List includes Birrieria Nochistlan, California Creationz and Oasis

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana Leave a comment

The O.C. Health Care Agency has released a list of the eateries (including restaurants, caterers and even school kitchens) that they inspected and shut down for the week of July 15 to July 23. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Birrieria Nochistlan, 1628 S. Standard Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • California Creationz, 1320 N. Grand Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • Los Cristales, 1638 S. Standard Ave., Santa Ana, Closed: July 20, Reason: Insufficient hot water
  • Oasis, 431 E. First St., Suite 4-K, Santa Ana, Closed: July 20, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Hamamori at South Coast Plaza, 3333 Bear St., Suite 320, Costa Mesa, Closed: July 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • On The Rocks Bar & Grill, 12752 Valley View St., Suite V, Garden Grove, Closed: July 17, Reason: Fire or other disaster damage
  • King Noodles 68, 10561 Bolsa Ave., Garden Grove, Closed: July 15, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Yogurtland, 2318 N. Tustin Ave., Suite B, Orange, Closed: July 15, Reason: Employee restrooms nonfunctional, Reopened: July 16
  • Cutie Lounge, 9191 Bolsa Ave., Suite 122, Westminster, Closed: July 20, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: July 21
  • Zombee Donuts & Bakeshop, 802 E. Chapman Ave., Fullerton, Closed: July 21, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • Alta, 506 31st St., Newport Beach, Closed: July 21, Reason: Insufficient hot water, Reopened: July 22
  • Dollar Tree, 1230 W. Imperial Highway, Suite B, La Habra, Closed: July 21, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Pizza D’oro, 8468 Indianapolis Ave., Huntington Beach, Closed: July 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • Mariscos Playa de Corales, 640 W. Chapman Ave., Placentia, Closed: July 21, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • Simply Cakes and Cupcakes, 24002 Via Fabricante, Suite 401, Mission Viejo, Closed: July 20, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: July 20
  • Juice It Up!, 9111 Atlanta Ave., Huntington Beach, Closed: July 20, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: July 22
  • Broken Yolk Cafe, 8010 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, Closed: July 17, Reason: Fire or other disaster damage
  • Creamistry, 26841 Aliso Creek Road, Suite B, Aliso Viejo, Closed: July 16, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Taqueros, 31401 Camino Capistrano, Suite 3, San Juan Capistrano, Closed: July 22, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Update: A coffee bar at El Dorado Hand Car Wash, 26815 La Paz Road, Aliso Viejo, which was ordered closed July 14 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen July 20.
  • Update: Mai Anh Thach Che at 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 115-C, Westminster, which was ordered closed July 15 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen July 16.

Free healthcare career training offered by the County of Orange and Futuro Health

Posted on by Posted in Education, Health and Medical, Jobs, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – In partnership with the Orange County Workforce Development Board (OCWDB), the County of Orange (County) is launching a new career initiative with Futuro Health to provide job seeker opportunities in high-demand healthcare occupations.

With the need for mental health assistance and behavioral health support on the rise, this initiative comes at an opportune time. California’s projected demand for healthcare workers is currently at approximately 500,000 by 2024. Programs to be offered to meet the growing need include the following healthcare careers:

• Registered Dental Assistant
• Community Health Worker with Behavioral Health
• Care Coordinator: Chronically Ill Populations
• Care Coordinator: Behavioral Health Populations

Through this new initiative, participants registered through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) will have free access to career training opportunities with Futuro Health and services offered through the Orange County One-Stop Center including:

• Training in healthcare career pathways
• Opportunities for job placement
• Workshops on resume writing, interviewing techniques, and 21st-century career skills
• Access to computers, internet, telephone, copier, fax machines, labor market information, and more

Interested WIOA participants can register at https://bit.ly/ochealthcarejobs to attend a virtual orientation. Following the orientation, participants will register for their program of choice directly through Futuro Health. Programs will be offered in-person and online and expected to begin on Wednesday, September 15, 2021.

For more information including how to become a WIOA member or register for the program without WIOA status, visit oconestop.com or call the Orange County Economic and Business Recovery Call Center at (714) 480-6500.

The Orange County Development Board, through the Orange County Business Service Center and Orange County One-Stop Center, offers comprehensive services such as hiring assistance, career transition services, and employment services to businesses and job seekers at no cost.

Futuro Health is a non-profit organization focused on improving the health and wealth of communities by growing the largest network of credentialed allied healthcare workers in the nation. Futuro Health believes that investing in education and skills training and retraining results in better paying-jobs for workers, better care for patients, and better workers for employers to hire.

The OC Health Care Agency urges residents to take precautions against COVID-19

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Public health officials at the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) are encouraging residents to take adequate safety precautions in the wake of increasing COVID-19 cases in the county. Currently, there are no plans to implement a new mask mandate in Orange County; however, those who are not fully vaccinated must continue wearing a mask indoors in accordance with guidelines from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“With the recent reopening of the State’s economy, we had expected to see an increase in our COVID-19 cases and positivity rates,” said Dr. Clayton Chau, County Health Officer and Agency Director of the HCA. “The average number of cases increased from 31 to over 100 per day over the last month, and our total testing positivity increased from 0.6% to 2.5%. Hospitalizations also jumped from 54 to 119 patients per day and ICU admissions increased from 13 to 31 patients per day. This means we need to continue being proactive about protecting our loved ones and neighbors and taking the necessary steps to help reduce the risk of infection throughout our county.”

In line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the HCA is reminding individuals to avoid large crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, especially those who are not fully vaccinated or who live with others who are unvaccinated or have high health risk of contracting COVID-19. Over 90% of new positive cases are among people who are not fully vaccinated, and over 95% of those hospitalized with COVID-19 had not been fully vaccinated. According to the CDC, all COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized in the United States are effective against COVID-19, including serious outcomes like severe disease, hospitalization, and death.

Testing also remains a critical component of the County’s strategy to reduce viral transmission. “Testing helps support early detection and prevent the spread of possible variants,” said Dr. Margaret Bredehoft, Deputy Agency Director of HCA Public Health Services. “Self-collection, at-home COVID-19 test kits are available at no cost by visiting www.ochealthinfo.com/covidtest. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, please seek testing, regardless of your vaccination status.”

To keep the community informed, the HCA will report Orange County COVID-19 case counts and testing figures daily, Monday through Friday, beginning July 19, 2021. Dr. Chau also encourages individuals who remain hesitant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, to learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine through credible sources including the CDC, the CDPH, the Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.