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Category Archives: Health and Medical

This week’s Cochino List includes 11 Westminster eateries and cafes

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana, Westminster 1 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. 17 to Sept. 25. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Yummy Bakery & Food To Go, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 115E-1, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Giai Phat Food Co., 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 123, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Sky Cafe, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 129, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Westminster Farmer’s Market, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 115-D, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Kensho, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 125, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Cho Tam Bien, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 115-E, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Ghien Mi Go Restaurant, 9500 Bolsa Ave., Suites G-L, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Com Tam Que Huong, 9500 Bolsa Ave., Suite B-H, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Mai Anh Food To Go, 9550 Bolsa Ave., Suite 115-C, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 22
  • Update: Cafe Goc Pho at 9880 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, which was ordered closed Sept. 15 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 18.
  • T4 Tea For U, 9500 Bolsa Ave., Suite A, Westminster, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: No water supply, (How does a tea house not have water?) Reopened: Sept. 22
  • P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, 1145 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, Closed: Sept. 23, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Class 302 Cafe, 18090 Culver Drive, Irvine, Closed: Sept. 23, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 25
  • Dos Toros, 221 Main St., Suite U, Huntington Beach, Closed: Sept. 22, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Commonwealth Mini Market, 3501 W. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 23
  • Azinoya Teriyaki at Anaheim Marketplace, 1440 S. Anaheim Blvd., Suite G-2, Anaheim, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened Sept. 23
  • BLVD Hotel, 2430 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, Closed: Sept. 21, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Broken Yolk Cafe, 2701 Harbor Blvd., Suite E-6, Costa Mesa, Closed: Sept. 17, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 18
  • Claim Jumper, 7971 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, Closed: Sept. 17, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 19
  • Update: Westend at 814 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed Sept. 17 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 18.
  • Update: A&J’s Drive-In at 403 S. Brookhurst St., Fullerton, which was ordered closed Sept. 16 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 24.

Bat found in Orange tests positive for rabies

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

(Santa Ana, CA) – A bat found along a brick wall in between 1500 and 1600 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road in the City of Orange, on Tuesday, September 22, 2020 at around 4 p.m., has tested positive for rabies.

While human rabies is very rare, each possible exposure should be carefully evaluated. Anyone who may have had contact with the bat, please call the Orange County Health Care Agency Epidemiology program right away at (714) 834-8180 for a nurse evaluation of the risk of rabies. After 5 p.m. or over the weekend, you can call the after-hours number at (714) 834-7792 and leave a message with your name and telephone number and we will return your call.

Rabies is spread by the bite of an infected animal or, rarely, from a scratch if the animal’s saliva gets into the scratch. Bats have very small teeth, and their bites may go unnoticed. Most cases of human rabies in the United States in recent years have resulted from bat strains of rabies.

If exposure to rabies could have occurred, there is a safe and effective treatment to prevent rabies from developing. Modern treatment for rabies uses a series of shots of a vaccine, which is given in the arm just like other vaccines.

To prevent rabies:

  • Avoid all contact with wild animals.
  • Vaccinate all cats and dogs against rabies.
  • Do not sleep with open unscreened windows or doors.
  • If bats are seen inside the house or other structure, close off the area and contact animal control. Once the bat(s) have been removed, close off any areas allowing entrance into the house.
  • Do not leave pet food outside where it will attract wild animals.
  • Immediately wash all animal bites with soap and water, being sure to flush the wound well, and then contact your doctor.
  • Report all animal exposures to your Animal Control program.
  • Obey leash laws.
  • Report stray animals to your Animal Control program.

More information about rabies is available at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/.

This week’s Cochino List includes Wawa Donkatsu and Cafe Goc Pho

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & 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. 10 to Sept. 18. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Wawa Donkatsu, 9562 Garden Grove Blvd., Suite G, Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 16, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 18
  • Cafe Goc Pho, 9880 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, Closed: Sept. 15, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Royal Liquor, 16501 Magnolia St., Westminster, Closed: Sept. 8, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Quan Vit Vit Vit, 15579 Brookhurst St., Westminster, Closed: Sept. 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 11
  • Lien Hue, 14291 Euclid St., Suite D-102, Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 11
  • Fortune Cookies, 1407 E. Katella Ave., Orange, Closed: Sept. 15, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Hometown Restaurant at 5394 Walnut Ave., Suite C, Irvine, which was ordered closed Sept. 9 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 14.
  • Westend, 814 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, Closed: Sept. 17, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • A&J’s Drive-In, 403 S. Brookhurst St., Fullerton, Closed: Sept. 16, Reason: Cockroach infestation
  • Gonzalez Market, 2230 W. Valencia Drive, Fullerton, Closed: Sept. 10, Reason: No water supply, Reopened: Sept. 11
  • Selanne Catering Kitchen, 1458 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, Closed: Sept. 10, Reason: Plumbing in disrepair, Reopened: Sept. 16
  • Healthy Junk, 201 W. Center Street Promenade, Suite B, Anaheim, Closed: Sept. 10, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 15
  • RJ’s Cafe at 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite F-120, Dana Point, which was ordered closed Sept. 10 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 11.
  • Loft Hawaiian Grill at 5950 Corporate Ave., Suite 300, Cypress, which was ordered closed Sept. 9 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Sept. 14.
  • Happy Liquor, 753 E. Whittier Blvd., La Habra, Closed: Sept. 4, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 9
  • Cafe Gazelle, 16041 Bolsa Chica Road, Huntington Beach, Closed: Sept. 4, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 8

The County of Orange is offering free flu shots

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

(Santa Ana, CA) – With flu season now upon us, the OC Health Care Agency is already anticipating the potentially devastating effects of a double whammy of influenza and COVID-19 cases hitting in the fall and winter months and urges everyone to get a flu shot.
 
“Even if you never get a flu shot, it’s absolutely vital that you take this important step to make sure we don’t overburden our health system,” said OC Board of Supervisor Chairwoman Michelle Steel, Second District. “It is essential that we all take the necessary precautions to avoid an outbreak of the flu as we continue to face the COVID-19 pandemic. Orange County wants to make sure every community has easy access to get a flu shot.”
 
Recognizing all of the things that people are worried about such as paying bills and dealing with the stress of social isolation due to COVID-19, the County is launching a flu vaccine campaign designed to encourage people to get their flu shot so they have one less thing to think about. The tag line is “Don’t worry about the flu, too” and drives people to the url: ochealthinfo.com/getyourflushot.
 
“Orange County is following our public health experts’ advice in protecting our community from COVID-19 and this upcoming flu season,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District. “To help provide early vaccines, which may potentially be scarce during this pandemic, the County of Orange will host free drive-thru and mobile flu vaccine clinics in each of the five supervisorial districts.”  
 
According to a Centers for Disease Control study of the 2018-19 flu season, of people 19 and older, 48.7% of White people received flu shots, while only 39.4% of Black people and 37.1% of Hispanics received the vaccine. 44% of Asian people were vaccinated. A study conducted in Orange County of the 2015-16 flu season produced very similar breakdowns in people vaccinated.
 
Third District Supervisor Donald P. Wagner said, “Our Board of Supervisors is pleased to be able to provide the flu shot free to anyone in the County who doesn’t have health insurance. It’s critically important that we protect everyone from a potential ‘twindemic,’ where COVID-19 and flu cases collide.”
 
The flu vaccine will be available as a shot or mist form at the Family Health Clinics by appointment only 8 – 11:30 a.m. and 1- 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Clinics are closed 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. People who live in the County should call 1-800-914-4887 for an appointment. There will also be flu pop-up clinics throughout the community that will be listed on the ochealthinfo.com/getyourflushot website.
 
Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee added, “We know there are some people who never get flu shots for various reasons. We are really emphasizing the need to do it this year. It’s rarely been as important.”
 
Outdoor boards, digital web banners and :15 PSA videos in English, Spanish and Vietnamese will be used to spread the message about the free Health Care Agency flu clinics. Additionally, the OC Health Care Agency is sponsoring an Estrella drive-in movie on September 18 to support the flu vaccine message with outdoor banners and :15 PSA video in Spanish.
 
“The similarities in symptoms between the flu and COVID-19 are startling,” said Fifth District Supervisor Lisa A. Bartlett. “Our website features a lot of important resources about the similarities and differences between the two illnesses as well as treatment and prevention. In order to mitigate the spread of the flu, I urge people to read these materials and get the shot as soon as possible!”
 
“Cooler weather is coming, and we know that when people spend more time indoors and have closer contact with each other, germs spread much more quickly,” said Dr. Clayton Chau, Director of the OC Health Care Agency and County Health Officer. “It is critical that everyone over 6 months old get a flu shot to decrease the incidence of influenza in the community and to ease the stress on the healthcare system when both viruses are likely to be circulating.”

O.C. COVID-19 testing expanded to vulnerable ethnic groups

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

Santa Ana, CA – COVID-19 has put a strain on economic disparities, leaving vulnerable communities to bear the economic brunt of the crisis.
Some of the many inequities in social determinants of health that put racial and ethnic minority communities at increased risk for COVID-19 positive cases, include: lack of access to healthcare, income and wages, occupation, discrimination, and housing conditions.

In late June, when evidence became clear about the increased level of COVID-19 infection in the Latino community, Supervisor Doug Chaffee and Supervisor Andrew Do – who both represent Orange County’s Testing Ad Hoc Committee – announced the launch of the Latino Health Equity Initiative to eliminate barriers that kept Latino residents from accessing vital COVID-19 related information.

On September 15, to address the needs of other ethnic minority groups in the county – particularly the Asian Pacific Islander (API) and the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) communities – the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved Supervisor Chaffee and Supervisor Do’s proposal to direct the Health Care Agency to develop a COVID-19 testing strategy and operational plan to expand testing into these communities.

“Some of our residents from racial and ethnic minority groups may be hesitant to seek care because they distrust government,” said Supervisor Do, who represents the First District. “This proposal builds off of the Latino Health Equity Initiative, and first calls to identify community-based organizations in the API and MENA communities to administer the testing strategy.”

According to the latest available statewide data, over 60 percent of all COVID-19 cases are in the Latino community, followed by other 22 percent in other ethnic communities. People from certain racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately represented in essential work settings and have more chances to be exposed to COVID-19 due to not being able to work from home or not having paid sick days, among many other factors.

“Essential workers in the API and MENA communities are experiencing higher rates of COVID-19 infections as they continue to provide for their families during the pandemic,” said Supervisor Chaffee, who represents the Fourth District. “We must keep our communities safe – especially ones that are disproportionately affected by COVID-19.”

To eliminate many linguistic, cultural, transportation and other barriers that exist for the API and MENA communities, the Health Care Agency will first identify community-based organizations to administer the COVID-19 testing strategy following the California Department of Public Health COVID-19 testing guidelines.

County-Operated Testing Site for Orange County Residents

Anaheim Testing Super Site

Location: Anaheim Convention Center

Address: 800 W Katella Ave, Anaheim (West Street entrance)

Days: Tuesdays – Saturdays Times: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

*Lane dedicated to First Responders

Click here for more information.

Costa Mesa Testing Super Site

Location: OC Fair & Event Center

Address: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa (Gate 4 Entrance)

Days: Monday – Fridays Times: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

*Lane dedicated to First Responders

Click here for more information.

Latino Health Access Partnership

Locations: Santa Ana & Anaheim Schools

Visit Latino Health Access’s Facebook for more information and testing locations.

You can also call their support line at 714-805-7838

*these locations are open for Santa Ana and Anaheim residents only and services are offered to non-English speakers

OC COVID-19 Testing Network

Locations: Throughout Orange County

Click here for more information and testing locations.

*services are offered to non-English speakers

For more information on the testing priorities at each of these sites, and other resources, please visit the Orange County Health Care Agency Network of Testing at www.ochealthinfo.com/covidtest.

And to find out what to do while waiting for test results, or if a COVID-19 test is positive, please visit www.ochealthinfo.com/protecteachother.

Orange County Supervisor 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, Supervisor Chaffee has combatted homelessness by supporting the creation of and allocating funding to the Buena Park and Placentia Navigation Centers and has spurred economic development by reinvesting $14.5 million to small business in the Fourth District.

Orange County Vice Chairman Andrew Do represents the First District communities of Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Westminster, Fountain Valley, and Midway City. In his second term, Vice Chairman Do has advocated for health and safety-based COVID-19 response planning, reformed Orange County’s mental health services, expanded access to health care, and led efforts to combat homelessness. Supervisor Andrew Do was one of the first officials in the state to propose a face covering mandate.

Garden Grove man the first to die of the West Nile Virus in the O.C. this year

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Garden Grove, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County Vector Control District, Santa Ana Leave a comment

(Santa Ana, CA) – The first human death associated with West Nile virus (WNV) infection in Orange County has been confirmed this week by OC Health Care Agency officials. The case is an elderly male resident of Garden Grove who died with WNV infection complications.

Orange County has had 5 symptomatic WNV infections reported this year. Two had WNV neuroinvasive disease and three had WNV fever; of these, four were hospitalized. Because about 80% of people infected with WNV have no symptoms, and the majority of cases of West Nile fever do not seek medical care and are not tested, the reported case counts greatly underestimate the number of infected people in Orange County.
 
Symptoms of West Nile fever include fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. Anyone who develops the more serious symptoms of West Nile neuroinvasive disease such as severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, muscle weakness or vision loss should seek medical care immediately. People over 50 years of age and those with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of serious complications from West Nile virus infection.
 
It is especially important to take precautions against mosquito bites during West Nile virus season. Recommended precautions include:

Recommended WNV precautions include:

• Emptying all standing water on your property to reduce areas in which mosquitoes may breed, including flower pots and pet bowls
• Making sure your window and door screens are in good condition
• Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or products containing IR3535, always following label directions
• Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors

Information on mosquito control is available on the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s website at www.ocvector.org. Other websites with helpful information about WNV include:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov
• State of California www.westnile.ca.gov
• OC Health Care Agency www.ochealthinfo.com/wnv

The Santa Ana CARES Mobile Resource Center to visit city parks starting today

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The Santa Ana CARES Mobile Resource Center will be visiting City parks beginning today, Sept. 9, 2020.

There will be free COVID-19 testing for Santa Ana residents, information on rental assistance and other resources, free masks, and more.

The dates and locations are:

• Sept. 9 – Madison Park, 1528 S. Standard Ave.
• Sept. 14 – Memorial Park, 2102 S. Flower St.
• Sept. 16 – Delhi Park, 2314 S. Halladay St.
• Sept. 21 – El Salvador Park, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive
• Sept. 23 – Rosita Park, 706 N. Newhope St.
• Sept. 28 – Pacific Electric Park, 401 E. McFadden Ave.
• Sept. 30 – Windsor Park, 2915 W. La Verne Ave.
• Oct. 5 – Mabury Park, 1801 E. Fruit St.
• Oct. 7 – Cesar Chavez Campesino Park, 3311 W. 5th St.
• Oct. 12 – Prentice Park, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave.
• Oct. 14 – Lillie King Park, 500 W. Alton Ave.

The Resource Center will operate 4-7 p.m. at all locations except Pacific Electric Park, where the Resource Center will be available 12:30-7 p.m.

For more information on Santa Ana CARES assistance programs, visit www.santa-ana.org/CARES.

El Centro de Recursos Móvil de Santa Ana CARES Visitará los Parques

El Centro de Recursos Móvil de Santa Ana CARES visitará los parques de la Ciudad a partir de hoy 9 de septiembre de 2020.

Habrá pruebas de COVID-19 gratis para los residentes de Santa Ana, información sobre asistencia para el alquiler y otros recursos, máscaras gratuitas y más.

Las fechas y lugares son:

• 9 de septiembre – Madison Park, 1528 S. Standard Ave.
• 14 de septiembre – Memorial Park, 2102 S. Flower St.
• 16 de septiembre – Delhi Park, 2314 S. Halladay St.
• 21 de septiembre – Parque El Salvador, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive
• 23 de septiembre – Rosita Park, 706 N. Newhope St.
• 28 de septiembre – Pacific Electric Park, 401 E. McFadden Ave.
• 30 de septiembre – Windsor Park, 2915 W. La Verne Ave.
• 5 de octubre – Mabury Park, 1801 E. Fruit St.
• 7 de octubre – Cesar Chavez Campesino Park, 3311 W. 5th St.
• 12 de octubre – Prentice Park, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave.
• 14 de octubre – Lillie King Park, 500 W. Alton Ave.

El Centro de Recursos funcionará de 4 a 7 de la tarde en todas las ubicaciones excepto Pacific Electric Park, donde el Centro de Recursos estará disponible de 12:30 a 7 de la tarde.

Para más información sobre los programas de asistencia de Santa Ana CARES, visite www.santa-ana.org/CARES.

Most of Orange County reopened as the County moves to the Red Tier

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

Santa Ana, Calif. (September 8, 2020) – Today, the County of Orange moved from the Purple Tier to the Red Tier as a part of the Governor Newsom’s Blue Print for a Safer Economy.  This allows certain business sectors to re-open immediately and businesses to expand their operations with certain restrictions. Additionally, County Health Officer Dr. Clayton Chau has issued related new Orders and Strong Recommendations, which also include seasonal flu vaccination for certain county residents and visitors. Access the document in its entirely here.

A listing of some of the activities and businesses now re-opened and/or expanded today are as follows:

  • Restaurants
    • May re-open for indoor dining with modifications
    • Capacity must be limited to 25 percent or 100 people, whichever is less
    • Must close every night by 10 p.m.
  • Places of Worship
    • May re-open indoors with modifications
    • Indoor activities must be limited to 25 percent of capacity or 100 people, whichever is less
  • Shopping Centers
    • May re-open with modifications
    • Indoor capacity must be limited to 50 percent for shopping malls, destination shopping centers, and swap meets
    • Common areas are closed
    • Reduced capacity shopping center food courts (see Restaurants guidelines for more details)
  • Retail
    • May re-open with modifications
    • Retail capacity must be limited to 50 percent
  • Personal Care Services (nail salons, body waxing, tattoo parlors, piercing studios, skin care & cosmetology, and massage services)
    • May re-open indoors with modifications
  • Movie Theaters
    • May re-open with modifications
    • Capacity must be limited to 25 percent or 100 people, whichever is less
  • Wineries
    • May be open outdoors only with modifications

Orange County residents may search for a business or activity type by visiting https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/ and typing in “Orange” in the County field, entering the business or activity type, and clicking, “GET LATEST STATUS.”

“Today, Orange County takes another step in the right direction in our fight against COVID-19. As we move into the state’s less stringent “red tier” designation, the restrictions on our business sectors will be significantly relaxed,” said Chairwoman Michelle Steel, Second District. “With our continued hard work, I am confident that we will continue trending in the right direction and move into the Orange tier in the not too distant future. The County of Orange can’t get there without everyone’s help and participation in observing health guidelines.”

A new blueprint for business sector re-opening was unveiled by Governor Newsom on August 28, 2020, which includes a color-coded, tiered system that will use two metrics to measure the novel coronavirus: spread rate and test positivity percentage.

The tiers are designated by four colors: purple (widespread), red (substantial), orange (moderate) and yellow (minimal with the lowest restrictions).

“As Orange County moves along the State’s new tier system, we must all continue to be vigilant and not let our guard down,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District. “Adhering to social distancing guidelines, good hygiene, and using face coverings, will ensure that we continue to trend in a positive direction so we can reopen more business sectors while ensuring the safety and security of all of Orange County residents.”

Under the new State monitoring guidelines, Orange County is now the Red Tier, the second-most restrictive tier of all the four tiers in the State.

Counties must remain at each tier for a minimum of 21 days. The State’s new website, www.COVID19.ca.gov, will track the metrics, show an interactive map and list business sectors open by each county.

“Orange County has been hitting the marks from the State but we haven’t been getting the credit we’re due and that’s been a source of frustration for us,” said Supervisor Don Wagner, Third District. “The State should give up on their failed phasing systems and return local control to the counties. Trust local leaders, businesses, and schools to reopen safely.”

The State’s tiers systems are based on two metrics: case rate and the percentage of positive tests. For Orange County to remain in the Red Tier, we will have to report between four to seven COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents per day and a positivity rate between five percent to eight percent.

“It’s important that Orange County continues to make strides in the right direction,” said Supervisor Doug Chaffee, Fourth District. “We know that many are tired of hearing it, but we see the fruits of people wearing face-coverings, social distancing and ensuring proper hygiene. It’s important to continue to do your part.” 

For the Orange County to transition to the Orange Tier – Tier Three – the County will have to report between 1-3.9 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents per day and a positivity rate between 2-4.9 percent for at least two consecutive weeks. This is in addition remaining on the Orange Tier for a minimum of 21 days.

“It is my goal that the County continues to take all the right measures and precautions to ensure the health and safety of our residents, while at the same time, allowing for the safe reopening our economy so Orange County can get back to business,” said Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District. “This has been a challenging time for so many people in my district, including many of our small businesses. It’s time for us to move forward and get our economy back on track so Orange County can once again thrive and come back even stronger than before,” she said.


The Orange County school waiver process will not be impacted by the Governor’s new system. Schools can re-open on a widespread basis (without a waiver) once a county is in the red tier for at least two weeks. There will then be a 14-day wait for all K-12 schools in Orange County to be eligible for re-opening in-person education, which will put us on track for September 22, 2020. To view the current list of schools that have applied for a waiver and their respective statuses, please click here.

For questions related to COVID-19, visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus, or follow the OC Health Care Agency on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).

This week’s Cochino List includes two Santa Ana coffee shops

Posted on by Posted in Business, Disease, Food, Food & 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 Aug. 28 to Sept. 4. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Huskins Coffee Co., 1901 E. First St., Santa Ana, Closed: Sept. 2, Reason: Rodent infestation
  • Coffee Heist at MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Suite 704, Santa Ana, Closed: Sept. 2, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 3
  • Trang Tien, 9609 Bolsa Ave., Westminster, Closed: Sept. 2, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 3
  • Phoholic, 14932 Bushard St., Westminster, Closed: Sept. 2, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 4
  • Hong Kong Express, 11092 Magnolia St., Suite B, Garden Grove, Closed: Sept. 1, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 2
  • Monty’s Jr. Market, 9029 Cerritos Ave., Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 31, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 1
  • O’Malley’s, 140 Main St., Seal Beach, Closed: Aug. 31, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 3
  • Star Liquor Jr. Mart, 1210 S. State College Blvd., Suite A, Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 31, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Sept. 1
  • Old Crow Smokehouse at Pacific City, 21022 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite B-230, Huntington Beach, Closed: Aug. 31, eason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Sept. 1
  • Golden State Coffee Roasters, 109 W. Santa Fe Ave., Placentia, Closed: Aug. 28, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 28

High O.C. temperatures bring risk of heat-related illnesses

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

(Santa Ana, CA) – The National Weather Service is forecasting elevated temperatures for Orange County over the next few days, increasing the risk of heat related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke for those who are more sensitive to heat.

Prolonged exposure to excessive temperatures may cause serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can even be fatal. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea or vomiting and dizziness. Warning signs of heat stroke may include an extremely high body temperature, unconsciousness, confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, and a throbbing headache. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediately call for medical assistance. Move the person to a shady area and begin cooling their body with water.

Recommended precautions to prevent heat related illnesses include:

  • Drink plenty of water; don’t wait until you are thirsty.
  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Stay out of the sun if possible, and when in the sun wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, and use sunscreen.
  • Avoid strenuous activities if you are outside or in non-air conditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area.
  • Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.
  • Check on those, like neighbors, who are at high risk to make sure they are staying cool – including seniors who live alone, people with heart or lung disease, and young children.
  • Stay cool indoors.

In addition, California ISO has issued a Flex Alert for September 5 – 7, 2020. Energy experts are asking residents and businesses to use AC early in the day, pre-set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher and avoid appliance use from 3 – 10 p.m.

For more information on heat related illnesses, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/.

The County of Orange Reminds us to remain vigilant against COVID-19 this Labor Day weekend

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Santa Ana 1 Comment

Santa Ana, Calif. (September 3, 2020) – With the upcoming Labor Day weekend, we understand that many Orange County residents and visitors alike will be visiting our beaches, parks and will be with their friends and loved ones.

To help get the word out to stay safe this Labor Day weekend, the County of Orange is using digital web banners and social media to help spread the word driving people to ochealthinfo.com/slowthespread website for downloadable Facebook, Twitter and Instagram posts anyone can use.
Beach-goers, park enthusiasts and other celebrants this weekend are asked to please make sure to adhere to the County’s health orders making sure you are physically distanced and wearing face coverings whenever inside or in close quarters.

To find out more about how we can all work together to slow the spread of COVID-19, go to ochealthinfo.com/slowthespread.

For questions related to COVID-19, visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus, or follow the
HCA on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).

This week’s Cochino List includes 7 eateries in Tustin

Posted on by Posted in Disease, Food, Food & Health, Health, Health and Medical, Insects, OC Health Care, Orange County, Public Safety, Restaurants, Santa Ana 10 Comments

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. 20 to Aug. 28. Most of these eateries reopen pretty quickly after the health inspectors determine their issues have been resolved.

  • Tustin Carniceria, 15822 Pasadena Ave., Tustin, Closed: Aug. 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 27
  • Thai 1, 560 W. 19th St., Suite C, Costa Mesa, Closed: Aug. 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 26
  • Vitaly, 2937 Bristol St., Suite B-103, Costa Mesa, Closed: Aug. 25, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 26
  • Rincon de Guanajuato, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite A, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • China West Express, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite E, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • Kairakutei, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite L, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • El Habanero Mexican Food, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite D, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • Paleteria Azteca, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite G, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • Sushi Bear, 17292 McFadden Ave., Suite B, Tustin, Closed: Aug. 23, Reason: Sewage overflow, Reopened: Aug. 24
  • Hanna’s Restaurant & Bar, 22195 El Paseo, Suite 110, Rancho Santa Margarita, Closed: Aug. 26, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 27
  • Flame Broiler, 1009 N. State College Blvd., Anaheim, Closed: Aug. 26, Reason: Cockroach infestation, Reopened: Aug. 27
  • Sessions Sandwiches, 414 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, Closed: Aug. 21, Reason: Rodent infestation, Reopened: Aug. 25
  • Update: Water-mill Rice Cake at 6142 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, which was ordered closed Aug. 20 because of a rodent infestation, was allowed to reopen Aug. 24.
  • Update: Snow Monster at 9600 Bolsa Ave., Suite G, Westminster, which was ordered closed Aug. 19 because of insufficient hot water, was allowed to reopen Aug. 24.
  • Update: Big Chopsticks at 1089 Baker St., Suite C, Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed Aug. 18 because of sewage overflow, was allowed to reopen Aug. 24.
  • Update: MaDee Thai Kitchen at 401 E. 17th St., Suite C, Costa Mesa, which was ordered closed Aug. 14 because of a cockroach infestation, was allowed to reopen Aug. 24.

Governor Newsom Unveils a new stringent and slow plan for living with COVID-19

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Blueprint recognizes that COVID-19 will be with us for a long time and that we all need to adapt and live differently to get through this 

New plan imposes risk-based restrictions on sectors across state; expands time between changes  

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today unveiled the Blueprint for a Safer Economy, a statewide, stringent and slow plan for living with COVID-19 for the long haul. The plan imposes risk-based criteria on tightening and loosening COVID-19 allowable activities and expands the length of time between changes to assess how any movement affects the trajectory of the disease.

Like every aspect of California’s response, data and science are the North Star, and as a result, this new framework makes a number of changes to the state’s previous resilience roadmap.

Californians can go to covid19.ca.gov to find out where their county falls and what activities are allowable in each county.

“This Blueprint is statewide, stringent and slow,” said Governor Newsom. “We have made notable progress over recent weeks, but the disease is still too widespread across the state. COVID-19 will be with us for a long time and we all need to adapt. We need to live differently. And we need to minimize exposure for our health, for our families and for our communities.”

The Blueprint builds on lessons learned from the first six months of the disease – and the new scientific understanding that has been collected – to create a new system for regulating movement and COVID-19 transmissions. It includes:

  1. At least 21 days to expand activities beyond the initial tier to ensure California better limits the spread of the virus;
  2. Mandatory metrics – case rates and test positivity – to measure how widespread COVID-19 is in each county and guide what is allowed;
  3. A uniform state framework, with four categories instead of 58 different sets of rules;
  4. A more nuanced way of allowing activity: Instead of open vs. closed, sectors can be partially opened and progressively add to their operations as disease transmission decreases; and
  5. A new process for tightening back up again quickly when conditions worsen.

Based on recent data, each county will fall into one of four colored tiers – Purple (Widespread), Red (Substantial), Orange (Moderate) and Yellow (Minimal) – based on how prevalent COVID-19 is in each county and the extent of community spread. That color will indicate how sectors can operate.

For example, in the Purple (Widespread) tier where the disease is widespread, restaurants can only operate outdoors. But once a county has achieved a lower level of disease transmission and moved into the Red (Substantial) tier, restaurants can operate with 25 percent capacity indoors or 100 patrons, whichever is fewer.

It relies on two leading health metrics: number of cases per 100,000 residents and percentage of COVID-19 tests that come back positive. In addition, counties will also be required to show they are targeting resources and making the greatest efforts to prevent and fight COVID in communities and with individuals with the highest risk, and demonstrate improvements in outcomes.

Counties must remain in every tier but purple for a minimum of 21 days before being eligible to move into the next tier. Each Tuesday, California will update each county’s data for the previous week and make corresponding changes to tiers. In order to move into a less restrictive tier, a county must meet that tier’s criteria for two straight weeks.

Conversely, counties that fail to meet the metrics for their current tier for two consecutive weeks must move to the next most restrictive tier. The plan also includes an “emergency brake” where the state can intervene more immediately for concerning factors like hospitalizations.

Purple (Widespread) is substituted for the previous County Data Monitoring List (which has equivalent criteria to Purple). Schools in the (Purple) Widespread tier aren’t permitted to reopen for in-person instruction, unless they receive a waiver from their local health department for TK-6 grades. Schools can reopen for in-person instruction once their county has been in the Red (Substantial) tier for at least two weeks.

The plan also emphasizes that no matter what restrictions the state puts in place, COVID-19 will get the upper hand if Californians don’t adapt their behaviors for the duration of the pandemic.

That means, until an effective vaccine is distributed, Californians must wear a mask every time they’re with people outside their household. Residents must take activities outside and maintain distance even with loved ones who do not live with them. Californians must realize that the safest place to be is still at home. And the elderly and those with medical conditions should still stay away from others as much as possible.

The Governor today also announced new PSAs highlighting the dangers of social gatherings during the pandemic and partnerships with Yelp, Facebook, Google and OpenTable, which will now encourage businesses to share COVID-19 safety precautions through new features so that customers can make informed decisions to protect their health and safety.

To learn more, visit covid19.ca.gov.

Dr. Clayton Chau selected as the new O.C. Health Officer

Posted on by Posted in Clayton Chau, Health and Medical, OC Health Care, Orange County Leave a comment

Santa Ana, Calif. (August 26, 2020) – In unanimous vote by the Orange County Board of Supervisors yesterday, Clayton Chau, M.D., Ph.D., was selected as County Health Officer.

Dr. Chau will serve as the Director of the OC Health Care Agency (HCA) as well as County Health Officer. He was hired on as the HCA’s Director on May 4, 2020 and subsequently assumed the role as Acting County Health Officer on June 9, 2020.

Dr. Chau worked for the HCA’s Behavioral Health Services team from 1999-2012 and was most recently Chief Clinical and Strategy Officer for Mind OC, the not-for-profit created to support the advancement of Be Well OC.

In addition to his time at Mind OC, Dr. Chau was previous employed by Providence Health System, the third largest health system in the country, as the Regional Executive Medical Director of the Institute of Mental Health and Wellness, Southern California Region. Dr. Chau was also appointed by the 23rd U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services serving on the Interdepartmental Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee.

His past positions include Senior Medical Director for Health Services at L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest nonprofit health plan in the nation, responsible for behavioral health, care management, utilization management, and disease management. In that capacity, Dr. Chau was actively involving in the development of the Los Angeles County Whole Person Care Program. He was also the Co-Principal Investigator for a multi-year Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Innovation grant in Transforming Clinical Practice.

Dr. Chau received his PhD in Clinical Psychology from Chelsea University in 2004, and his medical degree from the University of Minnesota in 1994. He completed his psychiatry residency at the University of California, Los Angeles/San Fernando Valley followed by a fellowship with the National Institute of Mental Health in psychoneuroimmunology focusing on substance use disorder and HIV. Additionally, he has served as an Associate Clinical Professor and Lecturer at a variety of renowned academic institutions including the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Chau has conducted international trainings in the areas of health care integration, health care system reform, cultural competency and mental health policy.

Orange County adds a second COVID-19 testing site at the OC Fairgrounds

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

Large-scale drive-through coronavirus testing opens at OC Fair & Event Center August 26

Santa Ana, Calif. (August 25, 2020) – Just six weeks after opening the Anaheim Supersite, the County of Orange announced today a second supersite opening at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa on
August 26.

360 Clinic will be conducting no-out-of-pocket cost testing leveraging personal insurance reimbursements and federal government assistance for the uninsured, with additional financial support from the County.

“I’m so pleased that we are opening this new test site to offer additional convenient access to testing for our residents, particularly for those within my district,” said Orange County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman
Michelle Steel, Second District. “Testing is one of the keys to our ability to slow the spread of the virus and still go about our business of getting back to work and enjoying life in our community.”

“This new site in Costa Mesa bolsters our local testing capacity, enabling more symptomatic and asymptomatic Orange County residents within priority groups, to access free contactless testing with quick turnaround times on results,” said Vice Chairman Andrew Do, First District. “To make our testing network better still, the county is establishing a call center and making website registration options accessible in multiple languages to ensure that all residents, no matter their primary language, have equal access to vital testing services.”

Tests will be available for individuals prioritized for testing by the California Department of Public Health:

  • People with symptoms
  • Close contacts with people known to have COVID-19
  • Healthcare workers, first responders
  • Residents and employees of congregate living facilities
  • Essential workers (grocery store, food supply, utility workers, public employees and teachers)

“There are three key messages we want to convey to people who may have been reluctant to get tests –particularly at our supersites,” said Third District Supervisor Donald P. Wagner. “1. Wait times in your car are
generally no more than 30 minutes. 2. The tests are self-administered, safe, easy and pain-free. 3. Results are available in 24 to 48 hours so you can quickly determine whether you test positive for COVID-19 or not and plan
accordingly.”

“We are committed to continuing to offer testing options to our residents that are easy and convenient for all of Orange County’s residents. Tests are just one tool in our arsenal to beat the novel coronavirus, but it’s a powerful
tool,” said Fourth District Supervisor Doug Chaffee.

Fifth District Supervisor Lisa A. Bartlett added, “Our goal is to do everything we can to slow the spread of COVID-19 including making it as easy and convenient as possible for residents to get tested. The addition of the Costa Mesa Supersite will hopefully bring us one step closer to achieving that goal. The more options that are available for people to get tested and get results in a timely manner, the quicker we can mitigate the spread of the
virus. In addition to the extensive test site locations, we’ve launched major marketing, advertising and community outreach campaigns centered around the importance of protecting yourself and each other by wearing a face covering, washing hands frequently and staying six feet apart.”

Costa Mesa Mayor Katrina Foley added, “We know that mass testing with prompt results combined with mask wearing and social distancing is necessary for our kids to return to in-person school and our business community to reopen. This Supersite, the second largest in California, opens up another path on our road to recovery. We are grateful that the City of Costa Mesa and the OC Fair will host and support this important public health program.”

“The good news is that our seven day daily case count is going down compared to where we were in July. This is especially encouraging given the additional testing capacity we’ve added,” said Orange County Director of the OC Health Care Agency and Acting County Health Officer Dr. Clayton Chau.

Orange County residents who meet the Public Health criteria may register online starting today at https://360clinic.fulgentgenetics.com/. Participants will be asked to provide their contact information along with their health insurance information (if they have it) while selecting their appointment date and time. Once a resident has successfully registered, they will receive a confirmation text or email. They will be required to show this confirmation on the date and time of their registration in order to be tested.

Starting on Wednesday, August 26, the Costa Mesa Supersite will operate Mondays – Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Questions can be directed to 360 Clinic representatives at (800) 446-8888. More information about testing
as well as other testing sites across Orange County may be found at: ochealthinfo.com/covidtest.

More Information:

  • OC Health Care Agency Network of Testing, visit ochealthinfo.com/covidtest
  • To find out what to do while waiting for test results or if a COVID-19 test is positive, go to ochealthinfo.com/protecteachother