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Santa Barbara County is reporting 60 new COVID-19 cases today, 8/5/20, and regrettably 3 new deaths. Note: Due to state-level computer issues, recent data in our dashboards is likely an underestimate of cases in our county. More info: http://PublicHealthSBC.org/status-reports
Two individuals who died were over 70 years of age and were associated with congregate living facilities in the South County Unincorporated Area. The third death was a person between the ages of 50 to 69 with underlying health conditions who died on July 5 in the City of Santa Maria. Deaths are reported when a death certificate is processed listing COVID-19 as a cause or a significant condition. The process can take several days and up to 2 months to finalize if pending Coroner verification.
With the beginning of the yearly tradition of Old Spanish Days Fiesta in Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department reminds community members and visitors that Local Health Officer order 2020-12.5 prohibits gatherings of any size due to elevated disease transmission of COVID-19. A gathering is defined as any event or convening that brings people together in a single room or single indoor or outdoor space at the same time. Limited exceptions apply. Santa Barbara County remains on the County Monitoring List due to continuing high case rates and hospitalizations.
Risk of contracting COVID-19 significantly increases in crowded places, enclosed spaces, and with close contact to others. “This year will have to be different for every person hoping to celebrate. The decisions we make in the next few days will set the course for what the transmission of COVID-19 looks like in the weeks to come,” shared Health Officer Dr. Henning Ansorg. “Please wear a face covering, avoid gatherings, and maintain your distance from those that do not live in your home.”
The following measures can reduce the risk for getting and spreading COVID-19. Together we are stronger as we stay safely apart.
- Stay home when possible.
- Remain six feet away from others and wear a facial covering when engaging in tasks away from home.
- 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.
More information about the COVID-19 response locally, visit www.publichealthsbc.org or call the County Call Center at 1(833) 688 – 5551.
 
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