County of Ventura COVID-19 Update 7/2/20

Good Afternoon, Here’s your COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura.

144 new cases
2,912 new people tested
1,885 recovered cases
80 hospitalized
28 in the ICU
1,308 under quarantine
47 deaths (1 additional death 89 year old male with co-morbidity)
64,047 total people tested

Celebrate at home this Fourth of July – without visitors

Community urged to help slow the spread of COVID-19

Ventura County health officials remind all residents and visitors that the coronavirus continues to pose serious health hazards and to not take part in social gatherings during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. Social gatherings are a known source of spreading the disease.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases has continued to rise recently, along with hospitalizations and ICU usage throughout all of Southern California. Health officials are concerned the Independence Day weekend could cause a spike if residents do not adhere to safety guidelines.

“We don’t want any more closures, but our numbers are increasing,” said Ventura County Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “Private gatherings are a problem. Please don’t mix households, even if you think everyone is healthy, and instead celebrate the holiday with the people you live with. We started seeing more and more cases after Memorial Day and we can’t afford another jump after the Fourth of July. We must work together by staying apart. These actions can save lives.”

Hospitals have prepared for a surge in cases for months, and health officials remind the community that everyone has a part to play in flattening the curve and slowing the spread of the disease. These measures include wearing face coverings as required, maintain social distancing and frequent handwashing.

Governor Newsom announced Thursday the closure of indoor dining and the closure of wineries and bars for at least three weeks. The Governor was responding to a recent surge in coronavirus cases statewide and placement of several counties on a state-generated watch list, including Ventura County. The local Public Health Officer Order on closures is included with this release.

“This virus is very real, and we know it is spreading and growing,” said Ventura County Public Health Director Rigo Vargas. “Gatherings of family and friends are dangerous right now, and vulnerable communities are especially impacted by these gatherings.”

For more information visit www.venturacountyrecovers.org.

Beach Closures: Ventura County beaches will be closed this holiday weekend from 5:00 a.m. on July 3 through July 6 at 5 a.m. to prevent crowding that results in the spread of COVID-19. To support this effort parking lots and restrooms will also be closed.

The Ventura County Public Health Department recommends the following measures to prevent exposure to COVID-19:

Stay home when possible.
Do not gather. Gatherings are still prohibited in the State. You may only gather with members of your household.
Remain six feet away from others.
Wear a facial covering in public spaces.
Wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Stay home when you are sick. Do not go to work or other places.

Ventura County Business Assistance Grant Program applications launched today for the program. Applications are available until July 8, 2020. The program includes grants of $5,000 for small businesses to alleviate impacts from COVID-19. Learn more at www.vcreopens.com.

Frequently Asked Question: Why are protests allowed if other gatherings are not allowed?

State public health directives do not prohibit in-person outdoor protests as long as social distancing is practiced and face coverings are worn. You can learn more about protected activities from the State at https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/#political.

COVID-19 drive through testing sites

No cost. No insurance needed. No appointment needed.