SOUTHLAND – (INT) – Southern Californians are facing a temporary stay-at-home order as the coronavirus pandemic enters a more serious phase.

Southland hospitals have dipped below the 15% remaining ICU capacity which means that the new regional Stay-at-Home order will take effect at 12:01am Monday for a period of three weeks.

Hospital ICU capacity will be assessed weekly after the initial 3-week period.

The Stay-at-Home order also applies to the San Joaquin Valley.

The order — the latest in a series of attempts to slow the spread of the coronavirus and prevent local healthcare systems from becoming overwhelmed — is triggered when a region’s ICU capacity drops below 15%.

Southern California’s ICU capacity Saturday was 12.5%, and the San Joaquin Valley’s was 8.6%, according to data released by the state.

The Stay at Home mandates the following closures:
• Indoor and outdoor playgrounds
• Personal care services, including hair and nail salons and barbershops
• Indoor recreational facilities
• Family entertainment centers
• Museums, zoos and aquariums
• Bars and wineries
• Youth sports
• Campgrounds (for overnight stays)
• On-site dining at restaurants (take-out, pick-up and delivery only)
• Hotels and motels except for critical infrastructure support

In Riverside County, total COVID positive hospitalizations have set new highs the past several days. As of Dec. 4th, there are 658 COVID positive patients hospitalized, including 135 patients requiring treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU). In July, the highest number of COVID positive hospitalizations was 550, and the highest number of patients requiring ICU care was 167.

San Bernardino County Public Health Director Corwin Porter is still encouraging people to go outside for various forms of exercise.

“We are very mindful of how staying inside and isolated can negatively affect people’s mental health,” said Porter. “We advocate getting outside for a walk around your neighborhood, a run, a bike ride or to walk your dog — being sure to maintain social distancing and follow other well-known safety measures,” Porter said.

Governor Newsom announced earlier that the state has earmarked an additional $500 million in relief funds for businesses, with grants of up to $25,000 being provided to small businesses, nonprofit organizations and cultural institutions. Information on different aid options for small businesses and employers can be found at https://covid19.ca.gov/business-and-employers/.

Story Date: December 5, 2020