Orange County COVID-19 update

As of today the O.C. Health Care Agency is reporting that there are 17 cases of Covid-19, the novel Coronavirus, in Orange County.

Eleven of these cases are travel-related. Three were contacted via person-to-person spread and three more were community acquired.

So far no deaths are reported.

Twelve of the victims are male and 5 are female. Seven of them are in the 18-49 age group and 6 are in the 50 to 64 age group while four are over 65.

There is now laboratory evidence of community transmission in Orange County, indicating that COVID-19 is likely spreading in the community.

People aged 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions (heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease) should stay home.

All residents should practice good health hygiene which includes washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve (not hands).

As of 3/15: The total number of people tested by HCA Public Health Lab (PHL) = 160. HCA PHL has kits available to test 1,098 specimens.

Some key points include:

• High-risk populations which include older adults (ages 65 and higher) as well as people who have serious, chronic medical conditions (like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease) are at higher risk for contracting COVID-19. These individuals should self-isolate at home.
• Residents should practice good health hygiene which includes washing your hands, staying home if you are sick, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve (not hands).
• Minimizing risk through social distancing whenever possible which includes avoiding attendance at large gatherings (250 people or more). Small gatherings should be limited to no more than 10 people and provide social distancing of six feet per person.
• Maintain vigilance and personal readiness which includes being prepared if there is COVID-19 in your household or a disruption of daily activities in your community. For example, maintain a supply of medications, food and other essentials in your house.
• Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, stay home while you are ill. If you need to seek medical care, call your health care provider first so that appropriate precautions can be taken.

For the most updated information on this outbreak please visit CDC COVID-19.