We’re all in this together. We are working rapidly to keep our state healthy.
State of California COVID-19 Website
San Bernardino County Department of Public Health COVID-19 Website
COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard – Full Size
UPDATES
Update: August 3, 2020: COVID-19 TESTING BACK ON TRACK & COMMUNITY PROTECTION ACTIONS
COVID-19 Testing
San Bernardino County has reported that it has overcome a recent statewide shortage in COVID-19 testing materials by contracting with a new supplier to secure an adequate supply of test equipment and is now encouraging all County residents to get tested.
All residents urged to get tested at convenient sites using easy-to-use nasal swabs
The County is now offering testing with an appointment at 10 locations, using an easy-to-administer nasal self-swab. Results can also be expected in no more than 5 days, but usually within 72 hours. There is no cost to take the test, however County residents will be asked to enter insurance information when setting an appointment in order to assist taxpayers in recouping some of the costs associated with testing. For more information or to schedule your testing appointment visit the San Bernardino COVID-19 Testing webpage.
Protect Your Family & Community From COVID-19
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JULY 30, 2020: EDUCATION / ENGAGEMENT / ENFORCEMENT PLAN
San Bernardino County has released a COVID-19 Compliance Education / Engagement / Enforcement Plan. It is designed to encourage compliance with federal, state and County public health mandates. The City of Rialto will provide the Education and Engagement components locally with a primary emphasis on educating high-risk businesses about the critical need to comply with these directives, while offering guidance to assist them in these efforts to remain open for business.
For questions or assistance businesses or community members can contact the City of Rialto Community Compliance Division by email CodeCompliance@rialtoca.gov or phone (909) 820-8070. Complaints can be filed online through the San Bernardino County COVID-19 site or by clicking HERE.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
San Bernardino County has changed the online interface to schedule appointments for COVID-19 testing. You can visit the COVID-19 Testing webpage where you will have the choice from: State Testing Sites, County Testing Sites, and Other Testing Sites. Click the “+” to the right of the type of testing site you would like to use and then select “Click Here to Make an Appointment”. Walk-Up Testing is available by appointment only at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto. Please visit the County Testing webpage to find appointment availability.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
COVID19.ca.gov Update for July 30, 2020
California now has 485,502 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 8,909 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 2.2 percent from Tuesday’s total of 8,715. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 7,633,840 an increase of 116,374 tests since Tuesday. The rate of positive tests over the last 14 days is 7.5 percent.
Updated July 30, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with data from July 29.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
July 27, 2020: Reduce Risk of COVID-19
There are four factors for risk of COVID-19 you should evaluate anytime you leave your home: wearing face covering, indoor/outdoor activities, distance from others, and the number of people you are around. Risk is increased by not wearing a face covering, being inside, being close to others, and being around more people. Risk is decreased by wearing a face covering, staying outside, staying at least 6 feet apart, and being around fewer people.
Paying attention to these four factors can help you make decisions to Stay Safe and be #RialtoReady!
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JULY 23, 2020: TEMPORARY OUTDOOR BUSINESS OPERATIONS GUIDELINES
The State has ordered the reclosure of various businesses sectors but has allowed several to remain open for outdoor operations only. To assist businesses in remaining open the City of Rialto has released Temporary Outdoor Operations Guidelines intended to support businesses such as restaurants, hair and nail salons, barbers, fitness gyms, and similar uses that wish to temporarily relocate indoor business operations to the outdoors and create a safe and clean environment for workers and customers in compliance with State COVID-19 Industry Guidance. The process is streamlined for timing of implementation and Community Development staff will provide a courtesy visit to confirm implementation. For more information contact the City of Rialto Community Development Department Planning Division at (909) 820-2075 or at planning@rialtoca.gov.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available by appointment only for the remainder of this week at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto. Please visit the COVID-19 Testing webpage to find appointment availability. There are also several additional sites close to Rialto with appointment openings through the week.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
COVID19.ca.gov Update for July 23, 2020
California now has 425,616 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 8,027 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 2.0 percent from Tuesday’s total of 7,870. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 6,778,304 an increase of 113,306 tests since Tuesday. The rate of positive tests over the last 14 days is 7.6 percent.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JULY 20, 2020: SCHOOLS TO START WITH DISTANCE LEARNING BEGINNING NEXT MONTH
On Friday July 17, 2020 Governor Newsom announced that in order to resume in-person class instruction in schools, a county must have been off the state’s COVID-19 watch list for 14 consecutive days. San Bernardino County is currently on the watch list and may remain on the list through the start date for most schools. In response school districts in San Bernardino County, including those that serve the City of Rialto, have announced that they will begin the school year with all students participating in a Distance Learning Instructional Model. Please visit your school districts websites for more information: Rialto Unified School District, Fontana Unified School District, Colton Joint Unified School District, San Bernardino City Unified School District.
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
July 16, 2020: WHAT’S OPEN AND WHAT’S NOT + TESTING IS STILL AVAILABLE
What’s Open & What’s Not
With the first round of reclosures on July 1st and additional closures ordered on July 14th it may be difficult to know what sectors are open and which are not. There is a new webpage on the County’s COVID-19 Response webpage that puts this information at your fingertips.
You may find that some of your favorite locations are still open but are operating with curbside pick-up or only outdoor operations to comply with the orders and guidance of state and county health officials.
Testing Is Still Available
San Bernardino County has noted that, “Due to a shortage in testing supplies, a limited number of appointments are open” for COVID-19 testing. Despite the shortages testing is still available through a variety of locations including some openings through this week. Unfortunately, there are no appointments at the Rialto site available for the remainder of this week. Most testing is free or can charge your insurance. Even if you don’t have insurance many of the testing facilities can offer the tests without charge as they can receive CARES Act funding for providing you the test. Money should not be an obstacle to getting tested!
Please visit the COVID-19 Testing Sites webpage from the County for more information on testing sites, hours or operations and to schedule a test online.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
***Information from the update by San Bernardino County on July 15, 2020***
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is not available for the remainder of this week at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto. Please visit the COVID-19 Testing webpage to find appointment availability beginning next week.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
***Information from the update by San Bernardino County on July 15, 2020***
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
COVID19.ca.gov Update for July 16, 2020
California now has 356,178 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 7,345 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 1.6 percentfrom Tuesday’s total of 7,227. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 5,915,508 an increase of 122,232 tests since Tuesday. The rate of positive tests over the last 14 days is 7.2 percent. California’s hospitalizations due to COVID-19 decreased by 9 from Tuesday.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JULY 13, 2020: IMMEDIATE RECLOSURE ORDERED FOR ADDITIONAL SECTORS
Effective July 13, 2020, the State of California Department of Public Health has ordered those counties, including San Bernardino County, that have remained on the County Monitoring List for 3 consecutive days to shut down the following industries or activities unless they can be modified to operate outside or by pick-up:
- Fitness centers
- Worship services
- Protests
- Offices for non-essential sectors
- Personal care services, like nail salons, body waxing and tattoo parlors
- Hair salons and barbershops
- Malls
All counties in the State must close indoor operations in these sectors (which were closed in San Bernardino County by order on July 1, 2020):
- Dine-in restaurants
- Wineries and tasting rooms
- Movie theaters
- Family entertainment centers (for example: bowling alleys, miniature golf, batting cages and arcades)
- Zoos and museums
- Cardrooms
Additionally, bars, brewpubs, breweries, and pubs must close all operations both indoor and outdoor statewide.
WHAT METRICS DOES THE STATE MEASURE THE COUNTY AGAINST?
The following metrics are currently being monitored by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to provide insight into how the county is doing regarding COVID-19 and to provide some early indication of developing areas of concern.
Elevated Disease Transmission:
The 14-day cases rate and positive rate are used to assess the level of burden of COVID-19. The County is flagged for elevated diseased transmission criteria if: case rate (per 100,000 residents) greater than 100 residents, OR case rate (per 100,000 residents) greater than 25 residents AND positive rate (greater than 8%).
Increasing Hospitalizations:
Active monitoring of the number of residents who are hospitalized by COVID-19 is another way to evaluate the burden of COVID-19. The County is considered to meet the increasing hospitalization criteria if: greater than 10% increase in the average number of confirmed COVID-19 patients hospitalized.
Limited Hospital Capacity:
Monitoring the availability of intensive care unit (ICU) beds and ventilators are important indicators to gauge the capacity of hospitals. The County is considered to meet the limited hospital capacity if: less than 20% of staffed ICU beds are available OR less than 25% of ventilators are available.
The County has added compliance monitoring to the COVID-19 Dashboard. As of today July 13, 2020 the County does not meet the standard for two of the metrics: Case Rate and Positivity Rate, but does meet the standard for the other three metrics: COVID-19 Positive Hospital Census, ICU Bed Availability, and Ventilator Availability.
July 9, 2020: TESTING IS STILL AVAILABLE BUT MAY BE LIMITED
For the immediate short term, San Bernardino County will be limiting COVID-19 testing in response to severe supply chain disruptions. The County hopes to resume its expanded testing regime by next week, once it obtains adequate testing supplies.
The supply shortage is not limited to San Bernardino County, but rather is affecting communities around the state and the nation. According to a recent survey by the Association for Molecular Pathology, more than 70% of U.S. clinical laboratories have suffered significant delays to COVID-19 testing programs as a result of ongoing supply chain disruptions. The organization said that the expansion of COVD-19 testing capacity at laboratories around the country has put pressure on supply chains that handle reagents and other materials used to learn whether a patient is infected.
Those with existing appointments should check their email to learn if their appointment has been cancelled. If cancelled, please reschedule online, testing is important!
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- July 6 through July 10: NOT AVAILABLE
- June 13 through July 17, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click her to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
COVID19.ca.gov Update for July 9, 2020
California now has 296,499 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 6,711 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 2.3 percentfrom Tuesday’s total of 6,562. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 5,078,434 an increase of 82,259 tests since Tuesday. The rate of positive tests over the last 14 days is 7.3 percent. California’s hospitalizations due to COVID-19 increased by 26 from Tuesday.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
July 6, 2020: INFECTION RATES ARE ON THE RISE, WHAT CAN I DO?
COVID-19 infection rates in San Bernardino County and right here in Rialto are at an all time high. The State of California has ordered the closure of a number of our business sectors including inside dining and all bars. As we reopen some sectors and reclose others what can you do to help re-flatten the curve of infection?
The key to protecting yourself, you family, and your community is to follow COVID-19 prevention practices:
- Stay away from those who are sick
- Stay home if you are sick
- Wear a face covering when away from home
- Wash hands with soap for 20+ seconds
- Avoid touching your face
- Practice social distancing maintaining a space of 6 feet from others in public
- Get tested and encourage others to get tested
If you are a business consider participating in San Bernardino County’s COVID-Compliant Business Partnership Program. The safety guidelines you will follow as a part of the program will help prevent COVID-19 transmission and in doing so you may be eligible for some much needed money for your business. If you are a customer and want to know if a business has adhered to the safety guidance of the program, look for the County’s COVID-Compliant sign in the window.
Unfortunately, online scheduling for Walk-Up Testing is not available this week at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto. Please visit the SBCOVID-19 testing webpage for additional testing information and to schedule a future test date.
Rialto Reopening
The City of Rialto phase 1 reopening is in effect. All City offices and many City facilities opened to the community on June 29, 2020. Masks are required and you will find a variety of COVID-19 mitigation measures including social distancing signage, plexiglass barriers, hand sanitizer, and temperature screening in some locations. Please join us Monday through Thursday 7am to 6pm for any of your City business needs. Many of your needs can still be accomplished without having to visit City facilities. For virtual assistance please contact us at 909-820-2525 or visit YourRialto.com for contact information for the department or division you would like to speak to.
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
July 1, 2020: IMMEDIATE CLOSURE ORDERED FOR SEVERAL SECTORS
Today July 1, 2020 Governor Newsom and the California Department of Public Health directed counties, including all of San Bernardino County, that have been on the County Monitoring List for three consecutive days or more to close indoor operations for certain sectors which promote the mixing of populations beyond households and make adherence to physical distancing and wearing face coverings difficult. The guidance applies for a minimum of three weeks and is subject to an extension based on epidemiologic indicators. These sectors may modify operations to provide services outside or by pick-up. In addition, all brewpubs, breweries, bars, and pubs in these counties must close immediately, both indoor and outdoor.
Today’s order applies to counties that have been on the County Monitoring List for three or more consecutive days. Combined these 19 counties represent approximately 72% of California’s population.
Impacted Counties as of July 1, 2020
| •Contra Costa | •Riverside |
| •Fresno | •Sacramento |
| •Glenn | •San Bernardino |
| •Imperial | •San Joaquin |
| •Kern | •Santa Barbara |
| •Kings | •Santa Clara |
| •Los Angeles | •Solano |
| •Merced | •Stanislaus |
| •Orange | •Tulare |
| •Ventura |
June 29, 2020: TESTING IS FOR EVERYONE……&……RIALTO HAS REOPENED
With any communicable disease outbreak – like COVID-19 – testing is critical to slowing the spread.
Testing leads to quick identification of cases, quick treatment for those people who are diagnosed positive, and immediate isolation to keep someone from unwittingly spreading the virus. Early testing also helps to identify anyone who came into contact with infected people so they too can be quickly treated.
The City of Rialto and County of San Bernardino are encouraging all residents, including those who have experienced no symptoms of COVID-19, to be tested for the coronavirus. Data is showing that a significant proportion of those infected with the virus are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms of the disease. Because of this, virtually anyone could spread the disease to others. That’s why EVERYONE needs to get tested.
Over the last weekend five more testing locations were added to the more than two dozen sites available throughout the County. While no prescription or doctor order is necessary, you do need to make an appointment. Please review the list of testing locations and times at the San Bernardino County testing webpage.
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 29 through July 2, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
- July 6 through 10, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration Opens Here Soon.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
Rialto Reopening
The City of Rialto phase 1 reopening is in effect. All City offices and many City facilities opened to the community at 7:00 this morning. Masks are required and you will find a variety of COVID-19 mitigation measures including social distancing signage, plexiglass barriers, hand sanitizer, and temperature screening in some locations. Please join us Monday through Thursday 7am to 6pm for any of your City business needs. Many of your needs can still be accomplished without having to visit City facilities. For virtual assistance please contact us at 909-820-2525 or visit YourRialto.com for contact information for the department or division you would like to speak to.
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JUNE 25, 2020: RIALTO REOPENING UPDATE
YOUR SAFETY: REOPENING RIALTO
More businesses and facilities are opening every day. The City of Rialto will reopen its doors to the public beginning June 29, 2020. As locations are opening, it is essential that we all follow established COVID-19 safety practices. While the practices may vary between sectors the following are critical for us all to practice when leaving home:
- Wear a mask or face covering
- Wash your hands frequently
- Use hand sanitizer before and after transactions
- Take advantage of barriers such as plexiglass during transactions
- Protect your cough or sneeze
- Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet away from those not in your household
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 22 through 26, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click her to make an appointment.
- June 29 through July 2, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click her to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Covid19.ca.gov Update for June 25, 2020
California now has 195,571 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 5,733 deaths. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 3,694,345.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JUNE 24, 2020: RIALTO REOPENING UPDATE
The Rialto City Council has approved the first phase/stage of reopening of the City of Rialto departments and services to the public. In compliance with State of California and San Bernardino County guidance, the level of reopening and the services provided will vary by department and division. Effective Monday June 29, 2020 we will open the doors to the public with modifications to the City work environment for your safety.
Employee and Customer Safety Practices
You will find new signage on City facilities listing the employee and customer safety practices that will be required as we reopen to the public. All facilities will have limited occupancy or capacity to aid in social distancing practices. There will be markings to indicate 6-foot spacing of persons coming into facilities. Plexiglass shield barriers will be placed in each customer service area to provide separation between employees and customers. Enhanced HEPA air filters will be placed in facilities. Hand washing or sanitization stations will be available in customer service areas. Individuals may be subject to screening questions and temperature checks for entry. And consistent with guidance:
Masks or Facial Coverings Will be Required for Employees and Customers
Office and Customer Service Locations
All of your regular customer service locations in the City will be open to the public from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on regular City business days Monday through Thursday:
City Manager’s Office
Deputy City Manager’s Office
Community Compliance
City Clerk / Management Services
Finance / Information Technology / Purchasing
Treasurer’s Office
Public Works
Community Development
Community Services
Human Resources / Risk Management
Police Department
Fire Department
The City’s Commissions will return to in-person meetings, as needed, beginning June 29, 2020.
Please visit YourRialto.com for call 909-820-2525 for additional information
Other City Facilities
Other City facilities have different opening dates and modifications based upon state and county guidance and services provided. Below is the detail on each City facility and its status with phase/stage 1 of City reopening:
Senior Center
Effective June 29, 2020, the Senior Center will be open for the Nutrition Program and Cooling Center purposes only.
Community Center
The Community Center will also open June 29, 2020, but due to on-site construction the public service desk will be located in the Francis Brooks Center (building 100) on the Community Center Campus. Child care and day camp programs may open with limited capacity, but sports programming and other contract classes will not reopen until a later phase.
Fitness & Aquatic Center
The Fitness Center will open July 6, 2020, with limited occupancy, reduced hours of operations to allow for enhanced cleaning, and limitations to the availability of some amenities if all safety precautions can be met.
Tom Sawyer Swimming Pool
The guidance and best practices for the prevention of COVID-19 transmission in large public pools is evolving. The practicality of reopening the Tom Sawyer Swimming Pool has not been determined for phase 1 reopening but will not occur prior to July 22, 2020 if all safety precautions can be met.
Resource Center
The Resource Center will be available for operations beginning June 29, 2020.
The Sandra R Courtney Community Playhouse
The Sandra R Courtney Community Playhouse will remain closed as theaters are not yet authorized to reopen under State and County guidance.
The Rialto Historical Society
The Rialto Historical Society will remain closed as indoor museums are not yet authorized to reopen under State and County guidance.
San Bernardino County Library – Rialto Branch
The Rialto Branch Library will reopen beginning June 30, 2020. For additional information about the library please CLICK HERE.
City Parks
Beginning July 14, 2020 City Parks and parking lots, with the exception of Frisbie Park which remains under construction, will reopen with limited amenities. Play structures, skate parks, restrooms, and other facilities will remain closed until later phases/stages. Youth Sports are not authorized for reopening in this phase.
JUNE 22, 2020: NEW GUIDELINES FOR YOUTH SPORTS, WEDDINGS, & FAMILY INTERACTION
San Bernardino County has released new information on youth sports, weddings and family interactions.
Youth Sports
The County has a three-phase plan to reimplement youth sports safely. Currently, the County is in Phase 1, which allows youths to engage in conditioning, drills and exercise activities while practicing social distancing. If your child participates in these activities, take steps to keep everyone safe:
- Keep six feet apart
- Wear a mask within six feet of another person not from your household
- Go outdoors instead of indoors when possible
- Wash hands frequently
- Clean and disinfect equipment or supplies between uses
When Phase 2 of youth sports begins, teams will be able to practice and play games without an audience. Phase 3 would allow games with an audience. The timeline for the transition through the phases will be announced in the future.
Weddings
Wedding ceremonies held in secular venues now join houses of worship to allow 25 percent of capacity or 100 people in attendance, whichever is less. There is not an attendance cap for outdoor weddings. Venues that hold ceremonies outdoors are only limited by the ability to keep people not of the same household six feet or more apart. Wedding ceremonies are considered cultural ceremonies, but wedding receptions and parties are still not permitted. Guidelines for wedding venues can be found here.
Family Interaction
One of the most frequent questions asked is why people can’t visit their family and friends as businesses begin to reopen. The statewide Stay-At-Home order is still in effect and it is best to stay connected to loved ones through phone and video calls as visiting people outside your household still presents a risk of spreading COVID-19. Keeping distance from others is especially important for people that are at higher risk of getting very sick, including older people, and people of any age who have underlying medical conditions.
If you must visit or check on family or friends who don’t live in your home, take steps to keep everyone safe:
- Keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others
- Visit outdoors instead of indoors when possible
- Wear a face covering or cloth mask
- Wash your hands often
- Clean and disinfect commonly-touched surfaces
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 22 through 26, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
- June 29 through July 2, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
JUNE 18, 2020: STATEWIDE ORDER FOR FACIAL COVERINGS ISSUED
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a California Department of Public Health Order today that requires the use of facial covering throughout the state.
Californians must wear face coverings when they are in the situations listed below:
- Inside of, or in line to enter, any indoor public space;
- Obtaining services from the healthcare sector in settings including, but not limited to, a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office, veterinary clinic, or blood bank;
- Waiting for or riding on public transportation or paratransit or while in a taxi, private car service, or ride-sharing vehicle;
- Engaged in work, whether at the workplace or performing work off-site, when:
- Interacting in-person with any member of the public;
- Working in any space visited by members of the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time;
- Working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others;
- Working in or walking through common areas, such as hallways, stairways, elevators, and parking facilities;
- In any room or enclosed area where other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present when unable to physically distance.
- Driving or operating any public transportation or paratransit vehicle, taxi, or private car service or ride-sharing vehicle when passengers are present. When no passengers are present, face coverings are strongly recommended.
- While outdoors in public spaces when maintaining a physical distance of six feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.
The following individuals are exempt from wearing a face covering:
- Children aged two and under;
- Persons with a medical, mental health, or developmental disability that prevents wearing a face covering;
- Persons who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;
- Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines.
- Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service;
- Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, while they are eating or drinking, provided that they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet away from persons who are not members of the same household or residence;
- Persons who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming, walking, hiking, bicycling, or running, when alone or with household members, and when they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others;
- Persons who are incarcerated. Prisons and jails, as part of their mitigation plans, will have specific guidance on the wearing of face coverings of masks for both inmates and staff.
More information about the state’s COVID-19 guidance is on the California Department of Public Health’s Guidance web page.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 15 through 19, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
- June 22 through 26, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click her to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
No-Cost Student Meal Programs Extended for Summer
Many of the school districts in San Bernardino County school districts are extending their meal programs through the summer to ensure children have the food they need during these challenging times. This include the districts serving in and around the City of Rialto. Meal pick-up dates and times vary by district, so please check with your individual school district for details:
Colton Joint Unified School District
Fontana Unified School District
Rialto Unified School District
San Bernardino City Unified School District
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
Food Assistance
Did you know that there are several food programs available in and around Rialto? Follow this LINK, enter your zip code and find the food assistance programs close to you.
COVID-Compliant Program Informational Webinars
The San Bernardino Economic Development Department and SBDC are hosting two information webinars on the COVID-Compliant Business Partnership Program. The webinars will take place at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23 and Thursday, June 25. Join us to get your questions answered and to learn more about this helpful program.
Register here for one of the sessions.
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Update for June 18, 2020
California now has 161,099 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 5,290 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 1.6 percent from Tuesday’s total of 5,208. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 3,074,530, an increase of 76,542 tests since Tuesday. The rate of positive tests over the last 14 days is 4.6%. California’s hospitalizations due to COVID-19 increased by 18 from Tuesday.
New Sectors Opening
Adding to the growing list of reopening business sectors, esthetician, skin care, and cosmetology services; electrology; nail salons; body art professionals, tattoo parlors, and piercing shops; and massage therapy in non-healthcare settings are authorized to reopen beginning Friday June 19, 2020.
Sectors not listed are not authorized to open and include youth sports outside of day camp settings, indoor playgrounds, live theater, saunas and steam rooms, nightclubs, concert venues, festivals, theme parks, and higher education.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
June 15, 2020: OPENING JUNE 19, 2020 – NAILS SALONS, TATTOO STUDIOS & OTHERS
The State Department of Public Health has issued guidance that will allow nail salons, tattoo studios, and other personal care services to open beginning June 19, 2020. These “Expanded Personal Care Services” which includes personal care that requires touching a client’s face, such as facials, electrolysis, and waxing, will be subject to compliance with Industry Guidance that provides for customer and employee protections including the use of facemasks. The guidance applies to esthetician, skin care, and cosmetology services; electrology; nail salons; body art professionals, tattoo parlors, and piercing shops; and massage therapy in non-healthcare settings.
The State is not yet allowing youth sports (outside of day camp settings), indoor playgrounds, live theater, saunas and steam rooms, nightclubs, concert venues, festivals, theme parks, and higher education to reopen.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 15 through 19, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
June 11, 2020: A NEW RIALTO COVID-19 UPDATE FORMAT
To align with changes in updating practices of our partner agencies COVID-19 updates from the City of Rialto will now be posted on Mondays and Thursdays. Additional posting may be made if needed to provide time critical information.
CITY OF RIALTO INFORMATION
Rialto By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Community COVID-19 Testing Site
Walk-Up Testing is available at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto:
- June 8 through 12, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
- June 15 through 19, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click here to make an appointment.
Testing is by appointment only. No symptoms are required. All clients are required to wear a face covering for their appointment. Additional testing sites are available throughout the County.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY INFORMATION
San Bernardino County By The Numbers: Cases, Recovered, & Deaths
Additional information is available on the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard
Food Assistance
For Grab and Go School Meal Information CLICK HERE
COVID-Compliant Business Partnership Program
This program has provides $30 million in small business funding through two components:
- Funding of $2,500 for eligible Small Businesses with 1-100 employees
- Support and Partnership for ALL eligible County businesses who wish to become a COVID Compliant Business Partner
COVID-19 Community Testing Sites
There are sites throughout the County providing COVID-19 testing.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA INFORMATION
By The Numbers: Cases, Deaths, & Testing
Update for June 11, 2020
California now has 139,281 confirmed cases of COVID-19, resulting in 4,881 deaths. The number of COVID-related deaths increased by 2.2 percent from Tuesday’s total of 4,776. The number of COVID-19 diagnostic test results in California reached a total of 2,597,647, an increase of 56,849 tests since Tuesday. California’s hospitalizations due to COVID-19 decreased by 63 from Tuesday.
New Sectors Opening
Movie Theaters may now open following specific industry guidance which includes physical distancing guidelines and limitations to seating and occupancy not to exceed 25% of capacity or 100 people whichever is less.
This is in addition to the current sections that are already open or scheduled to open Friday June 12, 2020:
Agriculture and livestock
Auto dealerships
Childcare
Communications infrastructure
Construction
Day camps
Delivery services
Energy and utilities
Family friendly practices for employers
Food packing
Hotels and lodging
Life sciences
Limited services
Logistics and warehousing facilities
Manufacturing
Mining and logging
Music, film, and TV production
Office workspaces
Outdoor museums
Places of worship
Ports
Professional sports (without live audiences)
Public transit and intercity passenger rail
Real estate transaction
Retail
Schools
Support for working families
Shopping centers
Sectors not listed are not authorized to open and include nail salons, tattoo studios, performance venues, and youth sports.
RESOURCES
For additional information:
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
June 8, 2020: GUIDELINES FOR NEW SECTORS OPENING JUNE 12, 2020
Under the guidance and direction of the California Department of Public Health and San Bernardino County Department of Public Health the City of Rialto is happy to announce the reopening of additional sectors. The sectors will be required to makes adjustments to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 as part of their reopening plan. The specific sectors are listed below with links to the state guidance for reopening unique to each sector:
- Bars and wineries https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-restaurants-bars.pdf
- Family entertainment centers https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-family-entertainment.pdf
- Museums, galleries and zoos https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-zoos-museums.pdf
- Fitness facilities https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-fitness.pdf
- Campgrounds https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-campgrounds.pdf
- Hotels https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-hotels-lodging-rentals.pdf
- Satellite wagering facilities https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-cardrooms-racetracks.pdf
Not yet included are nail salons, movie theaters, youth sports, and other sectors not identified by the State.
June 3, 2020: FACIAL COVERINGS ORDERS
The City of Rialto continues to share that facial coverings are essential anytime you leave home. Face coverings over the nose and mouth, such as scarves (dense fabric, without holes), bandanas, neck gaiters, or other fabric face coverings are needed when you are in public, when working in or patronizing businesses, public agencies and nonprofit and faith-based organizations.
The San Bernardino County Health Officer has issued an Order For the Control of COVID-19 that supports the wearing of facial coverings and, “allows businesses, public agencies, and nonprofit and faith-based organizations, to require customers, patrons, and staff to wear face coverings.”
June 2, 2020: WALK-UP COVID-19 TESTING IN RIALTO AND OTHER LOCATIONS
San Bernardino County has opened several stationary or “walk-up” testing sites, which are open Monday through Friday by appointment only. They are scheduled to run through June with appointment registrations opening weekly. One is located in the City of Rialto at the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium located at 850 E. Foothill Boulevard. Additional locations in Rancho Cucamonga, Hesperia, Joshua Tree and Ontario are open with 5 more sites to be announced in the near future.
Both diagnostic and serology antibody testing will be conducted at the walk-up locations. The benefits of a stationary site are:
- Continuity of service. When someone wants a test, they will always know where to get one rather than having to wait until a drive-through event comes to their area.
- Operational efficiencies. This model requires less staff.
- Climate control for test samples and staff.
- Effective for serving priority populations such as first responders and healthcare workers.
These sites, along with other testing strategies, is greatly increasing the amount of testing being done in our County, which will help us better track the infection in our communities. It will also provide the data we need to demonstrate that it is safe to keep our businesses open and hopefully, eventually relax the remaining restrictions.
For the stationary sites, everyone is required to wear a face covering to their appointments. Clients are to stay in their car, until staff comes out to escort them into the venue to conduct testing. Clients can now self-swab under the care of a nurse, in case clients need assistance. Self-swabbing is much easier, and it is NOT the swab that goes all the way up your nose!
All of these testing sites are free to all residents and you do not need to have symptoms to get tested. You may think there isn’t a need to get tested if you’re not feeling sick, but you might be asymptomatic. Even if you don’t have the virus, getting tested is important so that we have more data, which gives us a better picture of how the pandemic is truly affecting our county and possibly help us open up our county faster.
May 28, 2020: REOPENING GUIDELINES FOR PLACES OF WORSHIP
Under the guidance and direction of the California Department of Public Health and San Bernardino County Department of Public Health the City of Rialto is happy to announce the reopening of places of worship with new state-specified guidelines. Under the new state guidance, places of worship can hold religious services, including funerals, if attendance is limited to 25 percent of a building’s capacity, but no more than 100 attendees. Cemetery services may have other requirements and/or limitations.
To reopen for religious services and funerals, the State says places of worship must:
- Establish and implement a COVID-19 prevention plan for every location, train staff on the plan, and regularly evaluate workplaces for compliance.
- Train employees and volunteers on COVID-19, including how to prevent it from spreading and which underlying health conditions may make individuals more susceptible to contracting the virus.
- Implement cleaning and disinfecting protocols.
- Set physical distancing guidelines.
- Recommend that staff and guests wear cloth face coverings, and screen staff for temperature and symptoms at the beginning of their shifts.
- Set parameters around or consider eliminating singing and group recitations. These activities dramatically increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission. For this reason, congregants engaging in singing, particularly in the choir, and group recitation should wear face coverings at all times and when possible, these activities should be conducted outside with greater than 6-foot distancing.
Not adhering to all of the guidelines in their entirely could result in the spread of illness and the re-closing of places of worship, the State said. In 21 days, the State Department of Public Health, in consultation with the County Department of Public Health, will review and assess the impact of the religious services guidelines and provide further direction as part of a phased-in restoration of activities. This 21-day interval accounts for seven days for religious communities to prepare and reopen in addition to a 14-day incubation period of COVID-19.
May 27, 2020: HAIR SALONS AND BARBERS ADDED TO REOPENING BUSINESSES
On May 26, 2020 the California Department of Public Health added hair salons and barbershops to the list of business that can reopen in the State and specifically in the County of San Bernardino under the County’s State Approved Readiness and Reopening Plan. Hair salons and barbers that plan to reopen are required to follow state guidance. At this time, nail salons and gyms are not allowed to reopen.
The reopening of hair salons and barbers is in addition to the reopening of several additional sectors over last several days including: Restaurants and Prepared Food, Essential Services, Retail, Healthcare Services, Limited Services, Offices, Outdoors, Childcare, Drive-Up Graduation Services, Religious Services, Short-Term Rentals and Campgrounds.
MAY 26, 2020: WHICH BUSINESSES ARE OPEN & WHICH ARE NOT?
On May 23, 2020 the California Department of Public Health approved the County of San Bernardino request to reopen more businesses as part of the Governor’s accelerated phase/stage two. As part of the accelerated Stage 2 phase of the state recovery plan a variety of additional businesses can now reopen in San Bernardino County. Businesses that plan to reopen are required to follow state guidance.
On May 25, 2020 Governor Newsom announced COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Places of Worship and Providers or Religious Services and Cultural Ceremonies. Under these guidelines many places of worship may now open for services with attendance limited to 25% of building capacity or a maximum of 100 attendees (whichever is lower).
For all opening businesses and locations the guidance includes provisions for wearing masks or face coverings and social distancing practices.
Restaurants and Prepared Food
Dine-In Restaurants, Food Trucks, and To-Go/Pick-Up/Curbside/Delivery
Essential Services
Banks, Convenience Stores, Essential State and Local Government Functions (Law Enforcement and offices that provide government programs and services, Food (farmers market, food banks, grocery stores), Gas Stations, Financial Institutions, Laundromats and Laundry Services, and Pharmacies.
Retail
Bookstores, Clothing and Shoe Stores, Florists, Home and Furnishing Stores, Jewelry Stores, Sporting Good Stores, Toy Stores, Manufacturing and Logistics to Support Retail, Malls and Swap Meets.
Healthcare Services
Dental Services, Preventative Care Services, and Elective Surgeries (Telehealth encouraged).
Limited Services
Appliance Repair, Car Washes, Dog Walking, Pet Grooming, Residential and Janitorial Cleaning and Plumbing (Do not generally require close customer contact).
Offices
All Sectors, Not Only Critical Infrastructure, and Includes Faith-Based and Non-Profit Offices (Telework still recommended).
Outdoors
Drive-in Movies, Golf Courses, Lakes, Outdoor Museums, Outdoor Rentals (kayaks, bikes, boats, carts, etc.), Parks, Trails, Yard and Garage Sales.
Childcare
Daycare facilities and In-Home Babysitting.
Drive-Up Graduation Services
Religious Services
Short-Term Rentals and Campgrounds
One Campsite/Short-Term Rental Per Immediate Household; No Gatherings or Parties.
Community Centers
Convention Centers
Group Campsites
Entertainment Venues (movie theaters, gaming, gambling, arcade venues, pro sports, indoor museums, zoos, and libraries)
Hospitality Services (bars, wineries, tasking rooms, and lounges)
Hotels and Motels for Leisure and Tourism
In-Person Graduation Ceremonies
Firework Shows
Live Entertainment and Sports Venues
Personal Services (hair and nail salons, tattoo parlors, gyms and fitness studios)
Picnic Areas
Playgrounds
Theme Parks
May 21, 2020: WHAT IS MULTISYSTEM INFLAMMATORY SYNDROME IN CHILDREN (MIS-C)?
There have been a lot of questions about the newly reported impacts on some children from COVID-19. The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles shares with us the following:
From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, children were a population left relatively untouched by the novel coronavirus. If infected, children often had few symptoms unless an underlying condition compromised their health. It was believed that children could have the disease without suffering from the symptoms.
More recently, pediatric hospitals are sharing stories of children suffering from multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, or MIS-C (formerly referred to as pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome, or (PIMS). You may have heard of this referred to as Kawasaki disease, inflammation syndrome, severe inflammation from COVID-19 or something else. Though the information available about MIS-C is still extremely limited due to the small numbers of cases compared with the staggering numbers of people affected by COVID-19.
There have been known cases of MIS-C in the United States. However, there are not any known cases of COVID-19 related MIS-C in San Bernardino County .
Symptoms associated with MIS-C:
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Neck pain
- Rash
- Bloodshot eyes
- Feeling extra tired
Be aware that not all children will have all the same symptoms.
Seek emergency care right away if your child is showing any of these emergency warning signs of MIS-C or other concerning signs:
- Trouble breathing
- Pain or pressure in the chest that does not go away
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
- Severe abdominal pain
For additional information visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention information on MIS-C
May 20, 2020: WHAT IS SEROLOGY (OR ANTIBODY TESTING) & WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
“The ability to detect infections in people who are otherwise asymptomatic is perhaps the greatest benefit of serology testing.”
There have been a lot of questions about what antibody / serology tests are and why they may be important in the steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19. There are a number of San Bernardino County and State of California COVID-19 testing sites available for the public. Concurrently, some testing events within the county are implementing serology testing (aka antibody testing). Here are the basics on this potentially valuable epidemiological tool.
Serology testing is used to detect the presence of antibodies in a person’s blood serum or other tissues. It involves taking a blood sample, which at San Bernardino County test sites, requires a simple, painless finger prick.
Antibodies, which typically form in response to an infection, are specific proteins produced by the immune system to neutralize pathogens such as viruses. Detecting antibodies in a blood sample confirms an individual was previously infected and developed an immune response — whether or not they showed symptoms of the disease.
So it is important to recognize that a serology test is not effective for determining if someone is currently infected with the coronavirus, since it typically takes up to two weeks after someone becomes infected for their body to produce antibodies.
However, serology testing helps epidemiologists and other medical professionals better assess the extent of the coronavirus among different populations throughout the nation and the world — including San Bernardino County. The ability to detect infections in people who are otherwise asymptomatic (i.e. people who experienced none of the symptoms associated with COVID-19) is perhaps the greatest benefit of serology testing. It increases our understanding of the virus and helps evaluate potential opportunities and risks when dealing with it.
However, the serology test that is currently available is not designed to confirm whether someone has been infected with the COVID-19 virus.
Serology testing for coronavirus is not a panacea. While we can confirm that a person has contracted the virus and successfully fended it off (as evidenced by the presence of antibodies), we do not know how long that individual is actually immune to the virus afterward. It’s also possible that immunity is merely partial.
Bottom line: Since doctors don’t know how much protection a person has once he or she has produced the antibodies to combat COVID-19, a positive test showing the existence of antibodies does not deliver a “clean bill of health” to the individual.
Visit San Bernardino County COVID-19 resources
Visit State of California COVID-19 resources
Visit CDC COVID-19 resources
May 19, 2020: SKILLED NURSING FACILITY OUTREACH + SUPPORT TEAM (SO+S)
Arrowhead Regional Medical Center and the County of San Bernardino have established a Skilled Nursing Facility Outreach + Support Team called SO+S. It is available to and has been used by City of Rialto and San Bernardino County facilities.
Given their congregate nature and resident population serving older adults often with underlying chronic medical conditions, nursing home populations are at the highest risk of being affected by COVID-19. To protect the vulnerable nursing home population, many facilities are aggressively making efforts toward visitor restrictions and implementing policies.
As of May 18th, the County has announced that three major County institutions consisting of the Department of Public Health, the Department of Behavioral Health and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center have joined forces to create a specialized team of medical experts to assist caregivers at skilled nursing facilities throughout the county.
The Skilled Nursing Facility + Outreach Support Team, or SO+S is part of a countywide multi-department task force organized to provide expertise and training to caregivers working with patients at particular risk from COVID-19 — namely, the elderly and those with preexisting conditions.
Emergency medicine physician assistants and mental health staff have already begun traveling to facilities throughout San Bernardino County to conduct assessments of facility operations and provide equipment and training. Following are among the team’s top priorities:
- Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to facilities, along with training on how best to use and maintain the equipment;
- Evaluate operations, including potential supply chain and operational concerns;
- Provide up-to-date information on COVID-19 containment best practices;
- Share tips for streamlining resource-ordering procedures; and
- Establish and share guidelines for segmenting COVID-19 positive patients and patients under investigation.
To Schedule a Visit or Ask Questions
Contact: Christian Barragan
Email: BarraganC@armc.sbcounty.gov
Phone: (909) 677-6533
May 18, 2020: NEIGHBOR 2 NEIGHBOR RESPONSE TEAM
The County of San Bernardino has established a Neighbor 2 Neighbor Community Response Team. It is available to all City of Rialto and San Bernardino County residents.
Are you looking to assist your neighbor?
Given the many challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, a show of solidarity exhibited through volunteering is heartening. As San Bernardino County continues to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, the county is preparing for an increase in the number of people who urgently need health care and support in our community. The County is calling on residents like you to assist in this effort.
You’ll become a valuable member of the County’s Neighbor2Neighbor Response Team and have opportunities to work in tandem with a variety of essential workers who are providing support and outreach. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to assist the newly established Alternative Care Sites (ACS) in our County that provide medical services for those who may have been impacted by COVID-19.
With your help, we can keep our health care system strong and continue to address the many needs of our neighbors during this unprecedented time.
We Need Your Help!
To ensure adequate staff for these sites, we’re calling on community healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals and non-medical volunteers to support in various roles.
For more information or to volunteer please click on the link
Opportunities
Medical
Behavioral Health Professionals
Case Managers
Emergency Medical Technicians
Medical Assistants
Nurse (RN, LPN, LVN, CNA) and nursing students
Nurse Practitioners
Paramedics
Pharmacists
Pharmacist Technicians
Phlebotomists
Physician Assistants
Physicians (MD, DO) including medical students
Radiologists
Therapists (Respiratory/Physician/Occupational)
Non-Medical
Couriers
Food Deliverers
Food Handlers
General Support Staff
Hotline Operators
Janitorial Workers
Laundry Service Workers
Logistics Planners
Office Staff
Security Professionals
Traffic Control Workers
Warehouse Workers
Questions
Email: Employment@hr.sbcounty.gov Phone: (909) 387-8304
May 14, 2020: COVID-COMPLIANT BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM
To support our local small businesses and help ensure ongoing compliance with State and County Health orders and direction, San Bernardino County is implementing the COVID Compliant Business Partnership Program.
This program has two components.
- Funding of $2,500 for eligible Small Businesses with 1-100 employees
- Support and Partnership for ALL eligible County businesses who wish to become a COVID Compliant Business Partner
This program will support our local small businesses by reimbursing and/or offsetting costs and impacts directly related to complying with COVID-19 related business protocols and providing support to all eligible County businesses who apply for the program.
Prior to receiving funding, San Bernardino County small businesses must demonstrate compliance with State/County public health orders, and incorporate safety and social distancing practices and measures in their business operations.
Total funding available for this program is $30,000,000. Eligible businesses, per qualifying location, can receive up to $2,500. Deadline for Application: August 31, 2020
For additional information including access to an online application please visit the program webpage. For any questions please email sbcovidbusiness@eda.sbcounty.gov or call 909-387-3911
May 13, 2020: RIALTO RESOLUTION TO IMPLEMENT PROTECTIVE MEASURES
On May 12, 2020 the Rialto City Council adopted a Resolution Urging Employers to Implement Protective Measures for Grocery and Pharmaceutical Workers and Members of the Community. In the interest of public health, safety and welfare, the resolution urges the implementation of protective measures for employees, workers, and members of the community through 18 actions:
- Limit the occupancy of persons at any given time in a store to 50% of capacity;
- Enforce social distancing requirements by marking down the floors inside and outside stores with indicators as well as posted signs to remind customers and employees of 6-foot social distancing requirements;
- Designate a specific entrance and exit for customers;
- Have one family member shop at a time;
- Assign employees to monitor and regulate customer entry into the store;
- Companies should follow all applicable Cal-OSHA regulations, rules and guidelines including those pertaining to prevention of COVID-19 infection;
- Companies should allow for sufficient amount of time overnight to allow for stores to be properly sanitized and restocked;
- Post signs for customers and for employees on what the rules are;
- Employee, workers and customers should properly dispose of their own personal protective equipment (“PPE”);
- Treat employees with respect;
- Provide hand sanitizer, soap and water, or effective disinfectant at or near the entrance of the store or in other appropriate areas for use by the public and employees and in locations where there is high-frequency employee interaction with members of the public;
- Posting signs in conspicuous place at all public entries that instructs members of the public not to enter if they are experiences symptoms of respiratory illness, including fever or cough;
- Provide non-medical face masks (not “face coverings”) and gloves for employees at the expense of the employer and allow employees to wash hands as needed;
- Install Plexiglas shields at all points of sale whenever possible;
- Maintain security onsite to enforce social distancing measures and safeguard employees from unruly customers;
- Inform employees of what precautions they will take when an employee tests positive for COVID-19 and to the best of their ability inform affected employees without violating HIPPA when a co-worker within a store tests positive for COVID-19;
- All essential businesses, as indicated by the Governor’s Stay at Home Order, including Grocery Stores, are strongly encouraged to utilize their ability to refuse service to customers who are not wearing face masks; and,
- Grocery Stores are encouraged to provide customers, without charge, reusable grocery bags or recycled paper bags, or where not possible, to provide single-use carryout bags, at point-of-sale, consistent with the Governor’s Executive Order N-54-20, and to encourage customers to not bring their own reusable bags into Grocery Stores.
Although some of the points are specific to grocery and pharmaceutical retail, the content of the resolution can be viewed as a checklist for COVID-19 safety. Employers, employees, and community members are all in this together. We must continue to ensure we pay attention to these broad categories of protective actions anytime we are away from home:
Protective Equipment
Everyone should wear masks and additional equipment must be available where needed to protect employees.
Hygiene
Regular hand washing and sanitizer availability is a must.
Social Distancing
Signage, barriers, and floor markings among other plans need to be in place to maintain 6-foot separations between individuals.
May 12, 2020: FACE COVERINGS CONTINUE TO BE NEEDED
Although San Bernardino County has repealed its previous order that included the requirement for face coverings for all persons when away from home, the wearing of face coverings remains an essential part of protecting yourself and others from COVID-19 spread. Employees and patrons of businesses need to continue to wear masks, implement social distancing, and practice good hygiene to keep the curve flattened as additional businesses open in early stage 2.
Important Tips For Wearing Face Coverings Especially in Hot Weather
While wearing a face covering is essential to help limit spread of COVID-19, we would all agree it’s not particularly enjoyable for anyone. Moreover, face coverings can become even more uncomfortable during hot weather — which is now here to stay for some time in Rialto. Unfortunately, hot weather does not mitigate the need for face coverings when you are in public. So here are some tips to make wearing one less unpleasant.
Be smart when you wear a face covering. While you should always bring your face covering when you leave your home, it is unnecessary to wear it when walking, running, jogging, or biking alone (or with a household member). But keep it around your neck, and pull it up when you are approaching or passing other people.
Use breathable material. Use a breathable fabric, such as cotton, which is typically more comfortable in hot weather than synthetic fabrics.
Check your fit. While your face covering should fit snugly, it should not be so tight that it’s uncomfortable or makes breathing difficult. Consider using an adjustable-tie face covering, rather than one with fixed elastic straps.
Bring extras. Cloth face coverings should not be worn when they become damp or wet, which is not uncommon in hot weather. Have extra clean ones that you can put on when the original becomes less effective.
Limit how long you wear one. It is usually best to limit the amount of time you wear your face covering. They are especially important when social distancing is more challenging, such as when visiting a supermarket. You do not need one while driving alone or with members of your household.
Remember your skin. Hot weather can cause moisture to build up, irritating your skin in similar fashion to a diaper rash. Cloth face coverings tend to be less of a problem than the N95 masks used by medical workers.
May 11, 2020: EARLY STAGE 2 REOPENING
Californians have been staying home and saving lives since the start of our statewide stay-at-home order issued on March 19, 2020. These efforts have allowed the state to move forward on our roadmap for modifying the statewide order.
We are now in early Stage 2, where retail (curbside and delivery only), related logistics and manufacturing and essential businesses can open. The state is issuing guidance to help these workplaces reopen safely.
When modifications are advanced and the state’s six indicators show we’ve made enough progress, we can move to the next stage of the roadmap.
Stage 2 expansion will be phased in gradually. Some communities may move through Stage 2 faster if they are able to show greater progress. Counties that have met the readiness criteria and worked with the California Department of Public Health can open more workplaces as outlined on the County Variance page.
Industry guidance to reduce the risk
California will move into Stage 2 of modifying the state’s Stay-at-Home order on May 8, 2020. Our progress in achieving key public health metrics will allow a gradual re-opening of California’s economy.
We recognize the impact of economic hardship. We must get our economy roaring once again and put paychecks in people’s pockets. But the risk of COVID-19 infection is still real for all Californians and continues to be fatal.
That is why every business should take every step humanly possible to reduce the risk of infection:
- Plan and prepare for re-opening
- Make radical changes within the workplace
- Adjust practices by employees and help educate customers
Below are Guidelines for businesses to follow, if they’re permitted to open. The goal is a safer, environment for workers and customers. Businesses may use effective alternative or innovative methods to build upon the Guidelines.
Review the guidance that is relevant to your workplace, prepare a plan based on the guidance for your industry, and put it into action.
When complete, you can post the industry-specific checklist (below) in your workplace to show your customers and your employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Before reopening, all facilities must:
- Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan
- Train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them
- Implement individual control measures and screenings
- Implement disinfecting protocols
- Implement physical distancing guidelines
To provide your input on future industry guidance, fill out the California Recovery Roadmap survey.
It is critical that employees needing to self-isolate because of COVID-19 are encouraged to stay at home, with sick leave policies to support that, to prevent further infection in your workplace. See additional information on government programs supporting sick leave and worker’s compensation for COVID-19.
Agriculture and livestock
The guidance for the agriculture and livestock industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the agriculture and livestock industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Auto dealerships
The guidance for the automobile dealerships and rental operators industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the automobile dealerships and rental operators industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Child care
The guidance for childcare industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers.
Communications infrastructure
The guidance for the communications infrastructure industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the communications infrastructure industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Construction
This guidance for the construction industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the construction industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Delivery services
The guidancefor the delivery services industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the delivery services industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Energy and utilities
The guidance for the energy and utilities industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the energy and utilities industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Food packing
The guidancefor facilities that process or pack meat, dairy, or produce provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for facilities that process or pack meat, dairy or produce in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Hotels and lodging
The guidance for the hotels and lodging industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the hotels and lodging industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Life sciences
The guidance for the life sciences industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the life sciences industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Logistics and warehousing facilities
The guidance for businesses operating in the logistics/warehousing industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the logistics/warehousing industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Manufacturing
The guidance for the manufacturing industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the manufacturing industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Mining and logging
The guidance for the mining and logging industries provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the mining and logging industries in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Office workspaces
The guidancefor businesses operating in office workspaces provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for office workspaces in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Ports
This guidance for the port industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the port industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Public transit and intercity passenger rail
This guidance for public transit agencies provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for public transit agencies in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Real estate transaction
This guidance for businesses operating in the real estate industry provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers. Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for the real estate industry in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Retail
This guidance for retailers provides guidelines to create a safer environment for workers.
Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for retailers in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business.
Customers and individuals
Customers and individuals are encouraged to stay home if they have a fever or other COVID-19 symptoms. Those with symptoms or elevated temperatures should not shop, get services in person, go to work, or gather with others. If you’re not sure if this applies to you, check your symptoms with this Symptom Screener.
Higher risk individuals (over 65 or with serious medical conditions) should continue to stay home until Stage 4. Minimize errands by getting groceries delivered or asking for help from friends or family.
Shop safely! Crowded settings increase your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Wear a face covering or cloth mask, stay 6 feet away from others, avoid touching your face, and wash your hands when you get home.
Roadmap for reopening businesses
Before re-opening, all facilities must first perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan. Adaptations need to be made before Stage 2 workplaces can open – currently that includes modifications like curbside pickup at retail locations.
May 7, 2020:
STATE AND COUNTY PHASE II REOPENING
Governor Gavin Newsom announced modifications to his Stay-At-Home Order for a planned transition to Phase II reopening. These modifications are based upon entry into Early Phase II of California’s Roadmap to Modify the Stay-At-Home Order and the State Report Card on criteria needed to move to Stage Two on the roadmap. The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors also announced plans their Readiness and Reopening Plan to address Phase II reopening.
Effective Friday May 8, 2020 the State of California, County of San Bernardino, and City of Rialto will be in early Phase II reopening. This includes opening of limited retail, manufacturing and logistics businesses that comply with all modifications that lower the risk of transmission, including curbside pick-up. The modifications include personal protective equipment, physical distancing, policy/rights/notifications, and hygiene standards. The types of retail in early Phase II reopening include curbside pick-up at bookstores, clothing stores, florists, and sporting good stores. Not included are offices, seated dining, gyms, beauty salons or shopping malls. Specific information and updates from the State of California can be found at covid19.ca.gov and Public Health Officer can be found at sbcovid19.com
The County of San Bernardino also announced a COVID Compliant Business Partnership Program where $30 million in Small Business support will be dependent upon compliance with established COVID-19 prevention standards. There will be additional information released on this program, but it is anticipated that it will include signage at participating facilities for patrons to review indicating business’ compliance with relevant standards.
City of Rialto Facilities Impact
All City facilities will remain closed to the public through May 31, 2020 and all City events through June 30, 2020 were previously cancelled. All City Departments remain open for business by other than face-to-face means including phone, fax, email and video conferencing where appropriate. There is signage on the door to each City facility with information on the closure and how to contact the specific department.
All City Parks facilities remain closed to the public through May 31, 2020. The parking lot to each City park has been cordoned off and the entrance to each park has signage indicating the closure and specific rules for City parks, trails and open areas during the citywide closure. Although walking through parks, on trails, and along sidewalks is allowed with a facial covering and social distancing, the use of park facilities is not allowed.
Take Care of Yourself and Your Community
As the State, County and City transition to Phase II of reopening it is important that everyone continue to take specific actions to reduce the spread and flatten the curve of infection of COVID-19. Wear a facial covering and practice social distancing when away from home. Wash your hands and clean high contact surfaces frequently. If you are sick stay home and contact your healthcare provider.
May 6, 2020: Q&A
CAN WE KEEP OUR WINDOWS OPEN SAFELY?
Question
The City of Rialto and San Bernardino County have received questions wondering if it’s possible to contract the coronavirus through the air. With the hotter days, do you increase your risk if you open your windows to get some fresh air?
Answer
The short answer is that it’s not likely. The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health recommends opening up your windows if it can bring some relief from the heat.
While scientists are still learning more and more about the COVID-19 virus, there is no evidence to suggest it has the kind of “airborne transmission” qualities to travel in the breeze through an open window or door into a home. According to FAQs from the World Health Organization, “The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. These droplets are too heavy to hang in the air. They quickly fall on floors or surfaces.”
So while a cough or sneeze can propel these droplets a few feet (which is why we social distance!), it would be improbable that those droplets could get caught in the wind from a passerby and fly through a window or door.
The most common way the virus is spread is when someone is in close contact with an infected individual, or you touch contaminated surfaces or objects. A major factor in COVID’s airborne transmission is length of exposure. In other words, if you are standing next to an infected individual and share the same airspace for 45 minutes, there is a good chance you’ll inhale enough virus to cause infection.
So while we all have to listen to our own voice of caution, it appears very unlikely that one can catch the coronavirus by simply walking outside or enjoying a gentle breeze from an open window.
May 5, 2020: FINDING CHILDCARE OPTIONS NEAR YOU DURING COVID-19
Child Care can be a challenge for essential workers who continue to travel to work on a daily basis. With Phase II of reopening coming soon there will be more community members traveling to work while their children are still at home. Governor Gavin Newsom has announced resources to help community members in finding safe, reliable, and accessible childcare options. A new webpage under the California Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response webpage covid19.ca.gov/childcare provides links to these resources.
One of the resources is website mychildcare.ca.gov that allows anyone to search by City, Address, or ZIP code and also allows map searches. There are multiple listings for providers in the City of Rialto including locations that have spots available for various ages of children. The listings contain information on the facility license from the Community Care Licensing Database. Additional information about childcare is available (in English and Spanish) by calling 1-800-KIDS-793.
May 4, 2020: COMMUNITY MEMBERS URGED NOT TO AVOID HOSPITALS, KEEP DOCTOR VISITS
Community members throughout California, including right here in Rialto, have delayed important doctor visits and even surgeries because of state-mandated restrictions on some medical services. State and County health officials say it is now time to consider scheduling such appointments. Medical experts say it is especially important for parents with young children to avoid skipping routine medical examinations and critical vaccinations.
On April 22, Gov. Newsom relaxed his stay-at-home order and the California Department of Public Health released guidance to allow hospitals and doctors to resume performing elective surgeries, which had previously been suspended due to COVID-19 concerns. Your health is essential, even during a pandemic. Many hospitals are safe and prepared to handle your medical needs. Postponing or neglecting your health care can have short and long-term detrimental effects on your health.
Start with contacting your healthcare provider to determine what is the best path for you. If you have an emergency the City of Rialto is here for you. Police, Fire and Emergency Medical Services responses are unchanged with COVID-19 and are just a phone call away at 9-1-1.
April 30, 2020:
COMING SOON: RESTAURANTS DELIVERY – HOME MEALS FOR SENIORS
Restaurants Deliver – Home Meals for Seniors is an emergency feeding program to ensure that older and high-risk County residents have access to nutritionally appropriate and balanced meals from local restaurants while under the state Stay-at-Home order.
The program is a partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), local governments and restaurants to prepare and deliver three meals per day to eligible County residents who are:
- Sixty-five (65) or older, have been exposed to or contracted COVID-19 or at high risk with underlying health conditions
- Living alone or with one other program-eligible adult
- Not currently receiving assistance from other federal nutrition assistance programs
- Living below 600% of the federal poverty limit
The Department of Aging and Adult Services is working in partnership with the Office of Emergency Services, 2-1-1, Joint Information Center, and other entities to implement and administer this initiative. The program is still being developed but community members may contact 1-800-510-2020 to be put on a waiting list and get further information.
Local restaurants and food providers that are interested in providing these “Great Plates Delivered” meals can fill out the online form.
UPDATE ON CALIFORNIA’S PANDEMIC ROADMAP
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced an update to the State’s path forward, in phases based on science, health and data. This Roadmap identifies where we are now and how we will navigate to lessening of restrictions over time.
6 Indicators for Modifying Stay-at-Home Order
- Ability to test, contact trace, isolate, and support the exposed
- Ability to protect those at high risk for COVID-19
- Surge capacity for hospital and health systems
- Therapeutic development to meet the demand
- Ability of businesses, schools, and childcare facilities to support physical distancing
- Determination of when to reinstitute measures like Stay-At-Home
Stage 1: Safety and preparedness
The state will build up testing, tracing, PPE and hospital capacity
Prioritize safety for workers and customers in essential workplaces
Prepare safety guidelines for expanded workforce, broken down by industries
Stage 2: Lower-risk workplaces
Gradually open some lower-risk businesses and workplaces, adapted for social distancing
Curbside pickup for retail businesses
Reopen manufacturing businesses
Office workers may return if telework is not possible
Increase access to public spaces
Stage 3: Higher-risk workplaces
Use restrictions on gathering sizes and other limits to reopen higher-risk workplaces
Salons and gyms reopen with restrictions
Sports (without live audiences) and movie theaters
Religious services return to in-person settings
Stage 4: End of stay-at-home order
The highest-risk environments will be reopened once appropriate treatments are developed
Live sporting events with fans
Concerts and festivals
Conventions
April 29, 2020: CARING FOR ANIMALS DURING COVID-19
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some coronaviruses cause cold-like illnesses in people, while others cause illness in certain types of animals, such as cattle, camels, and bats. Some coronaviruses, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, infect only animals and do not infect humans.
Risk of animals spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to people
Some coronaviruses that infect animals can sometimes be spread to humans and then spread between people, but this is rare. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) are examples of diseases caused by coronaviruses that originated in animals and spread to people. This is what is suspected to have happened with the virus that caused the current outbreak of COVID-19. However, we do not know the exact source of this virus. Public health officials and partners are working hard to identify the source of COVID-19. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person to person. The coronavirus most similar to the virus causing COVID-19 is the one that causes SARS.
The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, and talking. Recent studies show that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.
Risk of people spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to animals
CDC is aware of a small number of pets, including dogs and cats, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. Only a few of the animals reported to be positive showed signs of illness.
The first case in the United States of an animal testing positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 was a tiger with a respiratory illness at a zoo in New York City. Samples from this tiger were collected and tested after several lions and tigers at the zoo showed signs of respiratory illness. Public health officials believe these large cats became sick after being exposed to a zoo employee who was infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. This investigation is ongoing.
We are still learning about this virus, but we know that it originally came from an animal source and is primarily spreading from person-to-person, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.
CDC is working with human and animal health partners to monitor this situation and will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.
What to do if you own pets
Until we learn more about how this virus affects animals, treat pets as you would other human family members to protect them from a possible infection.
- Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people and animals.
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
There is a small number of animals around the world reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after having contact with a person with COVID-19. Talk to your veterinarian if your pet gets sick or if you have any concerns about your pet’s health.
Protect pets if you are sick
If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would with people. Until we know more about this virus, people sick with COVID-19 should avoid contact with pets and other animals.
- When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.
- Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.
- If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick, do not take your pet to the veterinary clinic yourself. Call your veterinarian and let them know you have been sick with COVID-19. Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other plans for seeing sick pets. Your veterinarian can evaluate your pet and determine the next steps for your pet’s treatment and care.
For more information visit: What to Do if You are Sick.
Stay healthy around animals
In the United States, there is no evidence that animals are playing a significant role in the spread of COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.. However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals.
- Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies.
- Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly.
- Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.
- Be aware that children 5 years of age and younger, people with weakened immune systems, and people 65 years of age and older are more likely to get sick from germs some animals can carry.
For more information, visit CDC’s Healthy Pets, Healthy People website.
Guidance and Recommendations
- Interim Guidance for Public Health Professionals Managing People with COVID-19 in Home Care and Isolation Who Have Pets or Other Animals
- Interim recommendations for intake of companion animals from households where humans with COVID-19 are present external icon
- Interim Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Veterinary Clinics
April 28, 2020: WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE SICK
Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick
If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and to help protect other people in your home and community.
Stay home except to get medical care
- Stay home. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas.
- Take care of yourself. Get rest and stay hydrated.
- Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Be sure to get care if you have trouble breathing, or have any other emergency warning signs, or if you think it is an emergency.
- Avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
Separate yourself from other people
As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people and pets in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available. If you need to be around other people or animals in or outside of the home, wear a cloth face covering.
- See COVID-19 and Animals if you have questions about pets.
Monitor your symptoms
- Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough or other symptoms. Trouble breathing is a more serious symptom that means you should get medical attention.
- Follow care instructions from your healthcare provider and local health department. Your local health authorities may give instructions on checking your symptoms and reporting information.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have any of these emergency warning signs* for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
Call 911 if you have a medical emergency: Notify the operator that you have, or think you might have, COVID-19. If possible, put on a cloth face covering before medical help arrives.
Call ahead before visiting your doctor
- Call ahead. Many medical visits for routine care are being postponed or done by phone or telemedicine.
- If you have a medical appointment that cannot be postponed, call your doctor’s office, and tell them you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the office protect themselves and other patients.
If you are sick wear a cloth covering over your nose and mouth
- You should wear a cloth face covering, over your nose and mouth if you must be around other people or animals, including pets (even at home).
- You don’t need to wear the cloth face covering if you are alone. If you can’t put on a cloth face covering (because of trouble breathing for example), cover your coughs and sneezes in some other way. Try to stay at least 6 feet away from other people. This will help protect the people around you.
Note: During the COVID-19 pandemic, medical grade facemasks are reserved for healthcare workers and some first responders. You may need to improvise a cloth face covering using a scarf or bandana.
Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Throw away used tissues in a lined trash can.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Clean your hands often
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.
- Soap and water are the best option, especially if hands are visibly dirty.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Handwashing Tips
Avoid sharing personal household items
- Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home.
- Wash these items thoroughly after using them with soap and water or put in the dishwasher.
Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces in your “sick room” and bathroom. Let someone else clean and disinfect surfaces in common areas, but not your bedroom and bathroom.
- If a caregiver or other person needs to clean and disinfect a sick person’s bedroom or bathroom, they should do so on an as-needed basis. The caregiver/other person should wear a mask and wait as long as possible after the sick person has used the bathroom.
Note: High-touch surfaces include phones, remote controls, counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables.
- Clean and disinfect areas that may have blood, stool, or body fluids on them.
- Use household cleaners and disinfectants. Clean the area or item with soap and water or another detergent if it is dirty. Then, use a household disinfectant.
- Be sure to follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many products recommend keeping the surface wet for several minutes to ensure germs are killed. Many also recommend precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.
- Most EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. A full list of disinfectants can be found hereexternal icon.
- Complete Disinfection Guidance
How to discontinue home isolation
People with COVID-19 who have stayed home (home isolated) can stop home isolation under the following conditions:
- If you will not have a test to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened:
- You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use medicine that reduces fevers) AND
- other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved) AND
- at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared
- If you will be tested to determine if you are still contagious, you can leave home after these three things have happened:
- You no longer have a fever (without the use medicine that reduces fevers)
AND - other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)
AND - you received two negative tests in a row, 24 hours apart. Your doctor will follow CDC guidelines.
- You no longer have a fever (without the use medicine that reduces fevers)
In all cases, follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and local health department. The decision to stop home isolation should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider and state and local health departments. Local decisions depend on local circumstances.
April 27, 2020: CALFRESH / CALWORKS ONLINE PURCHASES
As of April 28, 2020 you can use your EBT card to make purchases online. Individuals and families can purchase groceries online using their EBT card at Amazon and Walmart. If you receive CalWORKs, you may also be able to use your cash benefits to make purchases online at Wal-Mart.
California expedited implementation of EBT online purchasing in response to COVID-19. Allowing for EBT online purchases will support vulnerable populations in meeting their nutrition needs, especially while a statewide stay at home order remains in place. California is actively working to expand the number of stores that accept EBT online in the future.
CalFresh provides monthly food benefits that help individuals and families buy healthy, nutritious food! Even if temporary, individuals and families who have experienced a change in their circumstances and need additional help may apply for CalFresh. Californian’s can visit GetCalFresh.org to apply or call 1-877-847-3663 (FOOD) to be connected to their local county social service office.
April 23, 2020: COVID-19 MORTGAGE RELIEF OPTIONS
If you’re among those financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, you might be concerned about how to pay your mortgage or rent. Federal and state governments have announced plans to help struggling homeowners during this time. Read this to get information on what to do now, and what your options are for mortgage and rental relief.
For many homeowners with mortgages, there’s help, but first assess your situation. If you can pay your mortgage, pay your mortgage. Don’t call your mortgage servicer if you aren’t facing an immediate issue. Mortgage servicers are getting a lot of calls and need to first help those who won’t be able to pay their mortgage. Check their website first for possible options.
If you can’t pay your mortgage, or can only pay a portion, contact your mortgage servicer immediately. It may take a while to get a loan servicer on the phone. Loan servicers are experiencing a high call volume and may also be impacted by the pandemic. Please be sure to read this blog carefully so you are prepared for this conversation.
Federal Relief
A new federal law, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, puts in place two protections for homeowners with federally backed mortgages:
- A foreclosure moratorium
- A right to forbearance for homeowners who are experiencing a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 emergency
California Relief
Under Governor Newsom’s financial relief package homeowners have four protections:
90-day grace period for all mortgage payments
If you are impacted by COVID-19, participating financial institutions will offer mortgage-payment forbearances of up to 90 days, which allow you to reduce or delay your monthly mortgage payment. In addition, they will:
- Give you a streamlined process for requesting forbearance for COVID-19-related reasons, supported with available documentation;
- Confirm approval of and terms of forbearance program; and
- Provide you the opportunity to extend your forbearance agreement if you continue to experience hardship due to COVID-19.
Relief from fees and charges for 90 days
For at least 90 days, financial institutions will waive or refund mortgage-related late fees and other fees including early CD withdrawals.
No new foreclosures for 60 days
Financial institutions will not start any foreclosure sales or evictions.
No credit score changes for accessing relief
If you are taking advantage of this COVID-19-related relief, late or missed payments will not be shared with credit reporting agencies.
Rep. Pete Aguilar to host a Telephone Town Hall on April 27th
Congressman Pete Aguilar invites you to participate in a Telephone Town Hall for Inland Empire Small Businesses.
The purpose of this call is to provide information on the latest policy updates and answer your questions about federal assistance for small businesses enacted through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Congressman Aguilar will be joined on the call by the Christopher Lorenzana, Acting Director at the U.S. Small Business Administration, Orange County/Inland Empire District Office, to hear your concerns and answer questions.
What: Telephone Town Hall for Inland Empire Small Businesses
When: Monday, April 27, 2020 from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Pacific time
How to join: Call (855)-756-7520 Ext.59837#
Click here to learn more about SBA’s programs and how to apply.
April 22, 2020: AVOIDING COVID-19 RELATED SCAMS
Unfortunately, it is common for scammers to exploit the uncertainty and anxiety associated with emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic to take people’s money or steal their identities. The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) reports that some of the most common scams involve: Government Impersonators; Fraudulent Cures or Medical Equipment; Work-from-Home Fraud; and Investment Fraud. Scams reported to law enforcement agencies throughout the country include:
- Scammers selling fake at-home test kits;
- Scammers soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19;
- Scammers offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19;
- Scammers creating fake businesses, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies, the crooks keep the money and never provide the merchandise;
- Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information;
Residents and businesses can protect themselves from becoming victims of COVID -19 related scams by doing the following:
- Rely on medical information only from trusted sources, such as their personal health care providers and county, state and federal public health officials;
- Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19;
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the public this way.
- Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Verify that the URL/Web Address is correct as scammers will often create fake copies of websites where the URL is only slightly different. Avoid companies with complaints about not receiving items.
- Don’t click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. This could download a virus onto your computer or device.
- Do not give out your Medicare number, Social Security number, or personal information in response to unsolicited calls, texts, emails, home visits, or booths at health fairs and other public venues. If your personal information is compromised, it may be used in other fraud schemes as well.
- Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID-19 before giving. An organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like “CDC” or “government” in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
- Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. If there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers that scammers may:
- Emphasize the words “Stimulus Check” or “Stimulus Payment.” The official term is economic impact payment.
- Ask the taxpayer to sign over their economic impact payment check to them.
- Ask by phone, email, text or social media for verification of personal and/or banking information saying that the information is needed to receive or speed up their economic impact payment.
- Suggest that they can get a tax refund or economic impact payment faster by working on the taxpayer’s behalf. This scam could be conducted by social media or even in person.
- Mail the taxpayer a bogus check, perhaps in an odd amount, then tell the taxpayer to call a number or verify information online in order to cash it.
A Message from Southern California Edison
April 20, 2020: FREE SCHOOL MEAL SITES DURING COVID-19 CLOSURE
All of the school districts with schools within or adjacent to the City of Rialto have free Grab-and-Go breakfast and lunch programs for children 2-18 years of age. The meal programs are free and do not require ID or documentation. They are for pick-up only and children must be present at the time of pick-up.
Rialto Unified School District (https://rialto-ca.schoolloop.com/)
Days: Monday-Friday Times: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Bemis Elementary School – 774 E. Etiwanda Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Simpson Elementary School – 1050 S. Lilac Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Frisbie Middle School – 1442 N. Eucalyptus Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Kolb Middle School – 2351N. Spruce Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Kucera Middle School 2140 W. Buena Vista Drive, Rialto, CA 92377
Rialto Middle School 1262 W. Rialto Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Eisenhower High School – 1321 N. Lilac Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Rialto High School – 595 S. Eucalyptus Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Chavez/Huerta Center for Education – 324 N. Palm Ave., Avenue, Rialto, CA 92376
Fontana Unified School District (https://www.fusd.net/)
Days: Monday-Friday Times: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Almeria Middle School – 7723 Almeria Ave, 92336
Beech Avenue Elementary School- 9206 Beech Ave., 92335
Fontana Middle School- 8425 Mango Ave., 92335
Fontana High School- 9453 Citrus Ave., 92335
Juniper Elementary School- 7655 Juniper Ave., 92336
Palmetto Elementary School- 9325 Palmetto Ave., 92335
Primrose Elementary School- 751 N. Maple Ave., 92336
Redwood Elementary School- 8570 Redwood Ave., 92335
Sierra Lakes Elementary School- 5740 Avenal Pl., 92336
Southridge Middle School- 14500 Live Oak Ave., 92337
Colton Joint Unified School District (https://www.colton.k12.ca.us/)
Days: Monday-Friday Times: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Joe Baca Middle School- 1640 S. Lilac Ave., Bloomington, 92316
Bloomington High School- 10750 Laurel St., Bloomington, 92316
Grant Elementary School- 550 W. Olive St., Colton, 92324
Grand Terrace High School- 21810 Main St., Grand Terrace, 92313
San Salvador Pre-School- 471 Agua Mansa, Colton, 92324
Cooley Ranch Elementary School- 1000 S. Cooley Dr., Colton, 92324
San Bernardino City Unified School District (https://sbcusd.com/)
Days: Monday & Wednesday Times: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ramona-Alessandro Elementary School- 670 Ramona Ave., San Bernardino 92411
Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy- 1885 East Lynwood Dr., San Bernardino 92404
Holcomb Elementary School- 1345 West 48th Street, San Bernardino 92407
Muscoy Elementary School- 2119 West Blake Street, San Bernardino 92407
Pacific High School- 1020 Pacific Street, San Bernardino 92404
Riley College PREP Academy- 1266 North G Street, San Bernardino 92405 San Andreas High School- 3232 Pacific Street, Highland 92346
April 16, 2020: We are all in this together COVID-19 can be stressful
Shopping for Food and Other Household Essentials
The outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include
- Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Worsening of chronic health problems
- Worsening of mental health conditions
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations
How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in.
People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include:
- Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19
- Children and teens
- People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors, other health care providers, and first responders
- People who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use
Take care of yourself and your community
Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.
Ways to cope with stress
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body.
- Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
- Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
- Exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
April 15, 2020: Guidance: Essential Activities away from home
As many Rialto community members take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 by staying home and practicing social distancing when they have to go out, people are facing new challenges and questions about how to meet basic household needs, such as buying groceries and medicine, and completing banking activities.
Shopping for Food and Other Household Essentials
- Stay home if sick.
- Avoid shopping if you are sick or have symptoms of COVID-19, which include a fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
- Order online or use curbside pickup.
- Order food and other items online for home delivery or curbside pickup (if possible).
- Only visit the grocery store, or other stores selling household essentials, in person when you absolutely need to. This will limit your potential exposure to others and the virus that causes COVID-19.
- Protect yourself while shopping.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others while shopping and in lines.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when you have to go out in public.
- When you do have to visit in person, go during hours when fewer people will be there (for example, early morning or late night).
- If you are at higher risk for severe illness, find out if the store has special hours for people at higher risk. If they do, try to shop during those hours. People at higher risk for severe illness include adults 65 or older and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions.
- Disinfect the shopping cart, use disinfecting wipes if available.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- If possible, use touchless payment (pay without touching money, a card, or a keypad). If you must handle money, a card, or use a keypad, use hand sanitizer right after paying.
- After leaving the store, use hand sanitizer. When you get home, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- At home, follow food safety guidelines: clean, separate, cook, chill . There is no evidence that food or food packaging has been linked to getting sick from COVID-19.
Accepting Deliveries and Takeout Orders
- Limit in-person contact if possible.
- Pay online or on the phone when you order (if possible).
- Accept deliveries without in-person contact whenever possible. Ask for deliveries to be left in a safe spot outside your house (such as your front porch or lobby), with no person-to-person interaction. Otherwise, stay at least 6 feet away from the delivery person.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after accepting deliveries or collecting mail.
- After receiving your delivery or bringing home your takeout food, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- After collecting mail from a post office or home mailbox, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Banking
- Bank online whenever possible.
- If you must visit the bank, use the drive-through ATM if one is available. Clean the ATM keyboard with a disinfecting wipe before you use it.
- When you are done, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when you get home.
Getting Gas or Fuel
- Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons before you touch them (if available).
- After fueling, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when you get home or somewhere with soap and water.
April 14, 2020: COVID-19 Myth Busters from The World Health Organization
The World Health Organization (WHO) has made a list of myths about COVID-19.
5G mobile networks DO NOT spread COVID-19
Viruses cannot travel on radio waves/mobile networks. COVID-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks. COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose.
Exposing yourself to the sun or to temperatures higher than 25C degrees DOES NOT prevent the coronavirus disease (COVID-19)
You can catch COVID-19, no matter how sunny or hot the weather is. Countries with hot weather have reported cases of COVID-19. To protect yourself, make sure you clean your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.
You can recover from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Catching the new coronavirus DOES NOT mean you will have it for life.
Most of the people who catch COVID-19 can recover and eliminate the virus from their bodies. If you catch the disease, make sure you treat your symptoms. If you have cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early – but call your health facility by telephone first. Most patients recover thanks to supportive care.
Being able to hold your breath for 10 seconds or more without coughing or feeling discomfort DOES NOT mean you are free from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or any other lung disease.
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are dry cough, tiredness and fever. Some people may develop more severe forms of the disease, such as pneumonia. The best way to confirm if you have the virus producing COVID-19 disease is with a laboratory test. You cannot confirm it with this breathing exercise, which can even be dangerous.
Drinking alcohol does not protect you against COVID-19 and can be dangerous
Frequent or excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of health problems.
COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates
From the evidence so far, the COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in ALL AREAS, including areas with hot and humid weather. Regardless of climate, adopt protective measures if you live in, or travel to an area reporting COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.
April 13, 2020: High-Touch Surface Safety
The City of Rialto encourages everyone to clean and disinfect common use areas and all “high-touch” surfaces thoroughly and frequently. Whether at home, at work, while shopping or on the go for essential items there are places that are commonly touched by multiple people:
WHEN TO WASH YOUR HANDS OR USE SANITIZER
It is important to wash your hands frequently and use sanitizer when you cannot wash your hands. Some activities are more likely to spread germs than others. You should wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if you can’t wash your hands as follows:
April 9, 2020: Helping with worry and stress from COVID-19
The San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health has resources available by text and voice.
April 8, 2020: San Bernardino County orders face covering
San Bernardino County Orders the Wearing of Face Coverings
Effective April 7, 2020, the San Bernardino County’s Acting Health Officer has ordered all persons in the County to wear a face covering when leaving home. These coverings may be effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19 particularly among asymptomatic people.
Face coverings may include coverings that secure to the ears or back of the head and encompass the mouth and nose. Homemade cloth ear loop covers, bandannas, handkerchiefs, neck gaiters, or other fabric face covering may be used. Surgical masks and N95 masks should not be used for non-medical reasons.
The City of Rialto continues to encourage staying home, practicing social distancing and frequent handwashing to combat the spread of COVID-19. Face coverings are not a substitute for those practices but an enhancement to help reduce the spread.
April 7, 2020: Simple Steps to Protect Yourself
Simple Steps to Protect Yourself
Drive-Through Community COVID-19 Testing
Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) will conduct Drive-Through testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) beginning April 9. The COVID-19 testing will be available for the public by appointment only. For appointments, call 1-855-422-8029. Instructions are available at this link: https://www.arrowheadregional.org/covid-19-updates/
The following dates are available for scheduling an appointment, as space allows:
- Thursday, April 9, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Friday, April 10, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 14, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 15, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Thursday, April 16, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Social Distancing While Shopping for Essentials
Based upon the guidance of the California Department of Public Health and the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, the City of Rialto is recommending that grocery store owners, employees and customers practice social distancing while in the store environment. The City has asked all grocery stores, markets and convenience stores to consider protective measures that may include:
- Limiting the number of customers that can enter the store at one time.
- Form a line outside the store with lines or tape on the ground separated by 6 feet for customers to wait.
- Creating barriers between customers and employees or customers and other customers when in lines.
- Having a special time for the high-risk population, elderly and disabled.
- Promoting online ordering and delivery to limit the number of customers.
- Offering grocery order pickup.
- Supporting the use of face coverings for employees and customers.
- Providing disinfectant wipes at store entry points for customers to use to wipe down shopping cart handles.
- Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that are frequently touched, such as handles of shopping carts and freezer units, thoroughly after every customer.
April 6, 2020: Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19
Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19
Based upon the guidance of the California Department of Public Health and the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, the City of Rialto is recommending that individuals use face coverings when leaving home to conduct essential business such as grocery shopping, going to a medical appointments or visiting a pharmacy, to help flatten the curve of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). This includes when at work in job designated as essential.
Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.
Staying home, practicing social distancing and frequent handwashing are far more effective ways to combat the spread of COVID – 19, and face covering are not a substitute for continuing those practices.
How to Wear a Cloth Face Covering
Cloth face coverings should
- fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- be secured with ties or ear loops
- include multiple layers of fabric
- allow for breathing without restriction
- be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape
Face Covering FAQs
Should cloth face coverings be washed or otherwise cleaned regularly? How regularly?
Yes. They should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use.
How does one safely sterilize/clean a cloth face covering?
A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering.
How does one safely remove a used cloth face covering?
Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing.
April 2, 2020: NOTICE: ALL RIALTO PARKS ARE CLOSED
NOTICE: ALL RIALTO PARKS ARE CLOSED
UNAUTHORIZED USE IS AT YOUR OWN RISK
COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS AND PARK CLOSURE INFORMATION
- Playgrounds, Skate Parks, and Exercise Equipment are closed until further notice
- Social Distancing of 6 feet is required if you are walking through the park
- No gatherings of people are allowed
- Park restrooms are closed
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (909) 421-4949
CARING FOR CHILDREN DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK
Steps to protect children from getting sick
- Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid people who are sick (coughing and sneezing)
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks)
- Launder items including washable plush toys as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items.
You can find additional information on preventing COVID-19 at Prevention for 2019 Novel Coronavirus and at Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities. Additional information on how COVID-19 is spread is available at How COVID-19 Spreads.
Avoid In-Person Activities with School Out of Session
Practice Social Distancing: The key to slowing the spread of COVID-19 is to limit contact as much as possible. While school is out, children should not have in-person playdates with children from other households. If children are playing outside their own homes, it is essential that they remain 6 feet from anyone who is not in their own household. To help children maintain social connections while social distancing, help your children have supervised phone calls or video chats with their friends.
Clean Hands Often: Make sure children practice everyday preventive behaviors, such as washing their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important if you have been in a public place.
Remember, if children meet outside of school in groups, it can put everyone at risk.
Help Children Continue to Learn
- Many schools are offering lessons online (virtual learning). Review assignments from the school, and help your child establish a reasonable pace for completing the work. You may need to assist your child with turning on devices, reading instructions, and typing answers.
- Communicate challenges to your school. If you face technology or connectivity issues, or if your child is having a hard time completing assignments, let the school know.
Watch for signs of stress in your child
- Some common changes to watch for include excessive worry or sadness, unhealthy eating or sleeping habits, and difficulty with attention and concentration. For more information, see the “For Parents” section on CDC’s website, Manage Anxiety and Stress.
- Take time to talk with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak. Answer questions and share facts about COVID-19 in a way that your child or teen can understand.
- Go to CDC’s Helping Children Cope with Emergencies or Talking with Children About COVID-19 for more information.
Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions
- Parents and caretakers play an important role in teaching children to wash their hands. Explain that hand washing can keep them healthy and stop the virus from spreading to others.
- Be a good role model—if you wash your hands often, they’re more likely to do the same.
- Make handwashing a family activity.
Help your child stay active
- Encourage your child to play outdoors—it’s great for physical and mental health. Take a walk with your child or go on a bike ride.
- Use indoor activity breaks (e.g., stretch breaks, dance breaks) throughout the day to help your child stay healthy and focused.
Help your child stay socially connected.
- Reach out to friends and family via phone or video chats.
- Write cards or letters to family members they may not be able to visit.
- Some schools and non-profits, such as the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning external icon and The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence external icon, have resources for social and emotional learning. Check to see if your school has tips and guidelines to help support social and emotional needs of your child.
Rialto Fire Department: COVID-19 Public Safety Reminder (4-2-20)
Rialto Police Department: COVID-19 Public Safety Reminder (4-2-20)
April 1, 2020: Meaning of clean & SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
Meaning of clean
Clean or disinfected? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gets technical about the difference. Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs.
Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
Hard surfaces
The CDC recommends wearing disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Hard surfaces should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. The EPA lists more than 350 disinfectants to help fight the virus.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing: 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water. Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens are expected to be effective against COVID-19.
Soft (porous) surfaces
For carpeted floor, rugs and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning, launder items and if possible, use the warmest appropriate water setting then dry items completely. Do not shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While the virus is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours on fabric.
If someone is sick
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas. In the bedroom/bathroom dedicated for use by an ill person, consider reducing cleaning frequency to as-needed.
As much as possible, an ill person should stay in a specific room. The caregiver can provide personal cleaning supplies for an ill person’s room and bathroom. These supplies include tissues, paper towels, cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants.
Bathrooms should be cleaned and disinfected after each use by an ill person. If this is not possible, the caregiver should wait as long as practical after use by an ill person to clean and disinfect the high-touch surfaces. Household members should follow home care guidance when interacting with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 cases. More info: coronavirus.org
Wash hands regularly
The CDC urges people to wash their hands regularly with soap for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
And Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush
According to Authority Dental, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide effectively reduces human coronaviruses on a toothbrush. You can mix hydrogen peroxide with water (1 teaspoon of HP, 1 cup of water) to dilute it. Soak a brush for 1 minute then rinse it under running water.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
To access the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program under the recently enacted CARES Act (COVID-19 economic stimulus package), small businesses may access programmatic information and submit an application through SBA’s website, www.sba.gov or the following link: Paycheck Protection Program.
Businesses with fewer than 500 employees are eligible for up to $10 million in loans, which can be used for payroll and other expenses, like insurance premiums, mortgages, rent or utilities. According to the SBA, the Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $349 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses.
Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, and Tribal businesses described in the Small Business Act, as well as individuals who are self-employed or are independent contractors, are eligible if they also meet program size standards.
Under this program:
- Eligible recipients may qualify for a loan up to 2.5 times their payroll or $10 million determined by 8 weeks of prior average payroll plus an additional 25% of that amount.
- Loan payments will be deferred for six months.
- The Paycheck Protection Program is retroactive to Feb. 15, meaning small businesses can go back and rehire any workers laid off after Feb. 15 – program term February 15 through June 30, 2020.
- Maximum loan rate is set at 4 percent with a maximum term of 10 years.
- If small businesses maintain their workforce, SBA is authorized to forgive the portion of the loan proceeds that are used to cover the first 8 weeks of payroll and possibly other expenses such as rent, mortgage (not including principal), sick leave, utilities and insurance premiums following loan origination – eligible payroll costs do not include individual compensation above $100,000. Canceled indebtedness resulting from this program will not be included in the borrower’s taxable income.
How to Find Out More
The Small Business Administration has a network of 1,800 approved lenders that process small business loans. If you are interested in a Paycheck Protection Program loan, you should first contact your bank to see if it is an SBA-approved lender. If your bank is not an SBA-approved lender, you can contact the SBA to find one. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday on Fox Business Network that small business loans will be made available starting Friday.
Information on the Paycheck Protection Program can be accessed on SBA’s website: www.sba.gov. You can reach the SBA by email at answerdesk@sba.gov or by phone at 1-800-827-5722. Several business groups also have published fact sheets on the SBA’s loan programs, including the Economic Innovation Group and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
SBA Town Hall Webinar with Congresswoman Norma Torres
Meaning of clean
Clean or disinfected? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gets technical about the difference. Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs.
Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
Hard surfaces
The CDC recommends wearing disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Hard surfaces should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. The EPA lists more than 350 disinfectants to help fight the virus.
Prepare a bleach solution by mixing: 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water. Products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens are expected to be effective against COVID-19.
Soft (porous) surfaces
For carpeted floor, rugs and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning, launder items and if possible, use the warmest appropriate water setting then dry items completely. Do not shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While the virus is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours on fabric.
If someone is sick
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas. In the bedroom/bathroom dedicated for use by an ill person, consider reducing cleaning frequency to as-needed.
As much as possible, an ill person should stay in a specific room. The caregiver can provide personal cleaning supplies for an ill person’s room and bathroom. These supplies include tissues, paper towels, cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants.
Bathrooms should be cleaned and disinfected after each use by an ill person. If this is not possible, the caregiver should wait as long as practical after use by an ill person to clean and disinfect the high-touch surfaces. Household members should follow home care guidance when interacting with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 cases. More info: coronavirus.org
Wash hands regularly
The CDC urges people to wash their hands regularly with soap for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
And Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush
According to Authority Dental, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide effectively reduces human coronaviruses on a toothbrush. You can mix hydrogen peroxide with water (1 teaspoon of HP, 1 cup of water) to dilute it. Soak a brush for 1 minute then rinse it under running water.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
To access the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program under the recently enacted CARES Act (COVID-19 economic stimulus package), small businesses may access programmatic information and submit an application through SBA’s website, www.sba.gov or the following link: Paycheck Protection Program.
Businesses with fewer than 500 employees are eligible for up to $10 million in loans, which can be used for payroll and other expenses, like insurance premiums, mortgages, rent or utilities. According to the SBA, the Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $349 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses.
Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, and Tribal businesses described in the Small Business Act, as well as individuals who are self-employed or are independent contractors, are eligible if they also meet program size standards.
Under this program:
- Eligible recipients may qualify for a loan up to 2.5 times their payroll or $10 million determined by 8 weeks of prior average payroll plus an additional 25% of that amount.
- Loan payments will be deferred for six months.
- The Paycheck Protection Program is retroactive to Feb. 15, meaning small businesses can go back and rehire any workers laid off after Feb. 15 – program term February 15 through June 30, 2020.
- Maximum loan rate is set at 4 percent with a maximum term of 10 years.
- If small businesses maintain their workforce, SBA is authorized to forgive the portion of the loan proceeds that are used to cover the first 8 weeks of payroll and possibly other expenses such as rent, mortgage (not including principal), sick leave, utilities and insurance premiums following loan origination – eligible payroll costs do not include individual compensation above $100,000. Canceled indebtedness resulting from this program will not be included in the borrower’s taxable income.
How to Find Out More
The Small Business Administration has a network of 1,800 approved lenders that process small business loans. If you are interested in a Paycheck Protection Program loan, you should first contact your bank to see if it is an SBA-approved lender. If your bank is not an SBA-approved lender, you can contact the SBA to find one. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday on Fox Business Network that small business loans will be made available starting Friday.
Information on the Paycheck Protection Program can be accessed on SBA’s website: www.sba.gov. You can reach the SBA by email at answerdesk@sba.gov or by phone at 1-800-827-5722. Several business groups also have published fact sheets on the SBA’s loan programs, including the Economic Innovation Group and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
SBA Town Hall Webinar with Congresswoman Norma Torres
March 30, 2020: CALIFORNIA HEALTH CORPS, CASES IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY GROW, STAYING AT HOME AND SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE STILL YOUR BEST DEFENSE & FOOD SHOPPING / RIALTO CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET
CALIFORNIA HEALTH CORPS
“California’s health care workers are the heroes of this moment, serving on the front lines in the fight against this disease. To treat the rising number of patients with COVID-19, our state needs more workers in the health care field to join the fight. If you have a background in health care, we need your help. Sign up at healthcorps.ca.gov.” Governor Gavin Newsom.
CASES IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY GROW
There has been a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in San Bernardino County over the last two weeks. As of March 30, 2020 the County Department of Public Health reports over 110 cases in the County. The first outbreak in a facility in the County has been reported and the first cases in first responders (both police and fire) have been reported within the county. The County Department of Public Health has begun reporting COVID-19 cases by City in their COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard. You will find that there are cases throughout the County. This is shared to educate not to scare; with the dispersal of cases throughout the County, including the City of Rialto, prevention practices are more important now than ever.
STAYING AT HOME AND SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE STILL YOUR BEST DEFENSE
The growing numbers reinforce the need for individuals to stay home when possible and to practice social distancing when they have to go out. Stay At-Home guidelines from the President and federal government were extended through at least April 30, 2020. The Governor’s Stay Home order remains in effect as does the San Bernardino County Health Officer’s order impacting businesses, events, and social distancing. All City of Rialto offices are closed to the public until May 4, 2020 matching the time that all schools in the county will remain closed. Please help us help you in reducing transmission and flattening the curve of the COVID-19 outbreak by following the stay at home order whenever and wherever possible.
FOOD SHOPPING / RIALTO CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET
Access to food, hygiene products and other essentials is critical during this time. When shopping look to maintain social distancing and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer frequently.
The Rialto Certified Farmer’s Market is back after a brief break. It is another option for the community in shopping for food. When attending the farmer’s market you will find mechanisms for creating social distancing in the shopping environment.Separator
March 26, 2020: ARE THERE MORE CASES IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY?
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health (DPH) is the best resource for COVID-19 cases information in the county. Their website includes a simple infographic that shares the information. The one to the right was current as of March 26, 2020 at 12:30pm.
The site also has a link to the San Bernardino County COVID-19 Dashboard shown below which displays surveillance information on overall testing including gender and age of cases.
ARE YOU PREGNANT?
Medical professionals are working to learn more about how the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) impacts pregnant women and their babies. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention there’s reportedly been no evidence of a mother passing the virus to her unborn baby. Mothers are still asked to take extreme precautions – especially in the last trimester of their pregnancy and you are encouraged to stay home to self-isolate as long as possible.
What to do if you are pregnant:
Practice social distancing, which means being separated from another person by at least 6 feet. Ask your health care provider for virtual or off-hour visits for your prenatal visits, ultrasound and lab testing. Call your hospital or birth center and ask them about any restrictions they have on the number of support persons (e.g. doula, spouses, family) allowed in the room during labor and delivery. If you are in labor and you have, or think may have COVID-19, call the hospital before you go so the staff can properly prepare and protect your baby and others from being infected.
Take care of yourself. We are living through a public health emergency that is creating a lot of stress, fear and anxiety in families across the U.S. For new moms, caring for a new baby while feeling sore, tired and stressed can be a lot to handle. But there are several things you can do to care for yourself:
- Take periodic breaks from watching or listening to the pandemic news stories or going on social media to help reduce anxiety.
- Keep in touch with people you care about and who care about you. Tell your partner, family and friends how you’re feeling.
- While COVID-19 has changed the way, daily life looks for us, there are things you can do to help keep a routine. Every day, take a shower, eat healthy foods and regular meals, drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep.
March 25, 2020: Food, Business and Wellness Resources
Food Resources:
The City of Rialto continues to work closely with local supermarkets. Many of the markets and grocery stores within the City and nearby have changed their hours to ensure that employees have time to restock shelves, sanitize, and clean facilities to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). A number of local stores are offering early or extended hours for the benefit of our seniors and those with disabilities. We will keep updating this list as we receive more information. Please be kind and respectful to each other and to store employees during this time.
| Store | Hours of Operations | Seniors & Customers with Disabilities |
| Aldi | 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. | 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Tues & Thurs* |
| Cardenas Market | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.* |
| Costco | 10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. | 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Tues & Thurs* |
| El Super | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.* |
| Food 4 Less | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. Mon, Wed & Fri* |
| Ralphs | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. |
| Smart & Final | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.* |
| Sprouts | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. | |
| Stater Bros | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:45 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.* |
| Superior Grocers | 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.* |
| Target | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Wed* |
| Vons | 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Mon-Thurs* |
| Walmart | 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. | 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. Tues* |
| WinCo | 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. |
Business Resources:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to California small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications.
CA Franchise Tax Board: The Franchise Tax Board announced special tax relief for California taxpayers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Affected taxpayers are granted an extension to file 2019 California tax returns and make certain payments to June 15, 2020, for all tax filings and payments due between March 15, 2020, through June 15, 2020.
CA Tax and Fee Administration: The CDTFA has the authority to assist individuals and businesses impacted by complying with a state or local public health official’s imposition or recommendation of social distancing measures related to COVID-19. This assistance includes granting extensions for filing returns and making payments, relief from interest and penalties, and filing a claim for refund.
IRS: The IRS has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus
Wellness Resources:
The impact of COVID-19 is not just physical and financial. It is impactful on our mental wellbeing as well. While social distancing is needed to help curb the spread and flatten the curve of infection the isolation is mentally taxing as well. There is a Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24-hrs a day that is answered by trained crisis counselors who can support you or someone you care about who may be feeling distress related to the coronavirus. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746.
Multi-Media from the City of Rialto:
March 24, 2020: Don’t Mix your Cleaning Supplies
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is a new respiratory virus. COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. It is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land on people who are nearby (within 6 feet). It may also be possible for a person to get COVID-19 (Coronavirus) by touching a contaminated surface or object and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
Cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces, especially those that are frequently touched (such as doorknobs, handles, tabletops, etc.) can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
The City of Rialto understands that there is a shortage of cleaning supplies and it could be tempting to get creative with how you combat it. But before you reach for every cleaning product under your sink and start playing chemist, take caution. People often think that if one product works, mixing it with another one will make it even better. There are certain products, which are safe when used alone, but can sometimes cause unsafe fumes or other chemical reactions when mixed with other products.
Always read the warnings and ingredient labels on cleaning products before use.
Review the attachments on what products should not be mixed with other products.
Do Not Mix Cleaning Supplies – English
Do Not Mix Cleaning Supplies – Spanish
March 23, 2020: Statewide Stay At Home Order
Statewide Stay At Home Order:
To protect the public’s health and slow the rate of transmission of COVID-19 Governor Gavin Newsom, the California State Public Health Officer and Director of the California Department of Public Health has ordered all individuals living in the State of California to stay home or at their place of residence to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
There are exemptions which maintain continuity of operation of the federal critical infrastructure sectors, critical government services, schools, childcare, and construction, including housing construction.
What Can I Do? What Is Open?
Essential services will remain open, such as:
· Gas stations
· Pharmacies
· Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants
· Banks
· Laundromats/laundry services
· Essential state and local government functions will also remain open, including law enforcement and offices that provide government programs and services.
What Is The City of Rialto Doing To Comply With The Order?
City of Rialto offices remain closed to the public but remain open by phone, email, fax and other than face-to-face means to meet your service needs. Each City department has evaluated the workforce related to the Governor’s order and additional staffing changes have been made to maintain essential operations. These changes vary by department but include actions that create social distancing and reduce or eliminate travel to the work environment where possible. The actions include hours, days and shift changes; rotation of personnel; and work from home or work where you are assignments for specified personnel. Our contact information has not changed and each department will remain available to address your needs.
Ongoing State Action:
The State of California and local governments is taking extraordinary steps to protect public health in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Last week, the Governor signed emergency legislation which is allocating $1.1 billion toward the state’s response, issued the Stay at Home order, deployed the National Guard to help support food banks, and signed an executive order to prepare the health care system for a possible surge in cases. Read the Executive Order (pdf) https://covid19.ca.gov/img/Executive-Order-N-33-20.pdf
Learn more about the state’s ongoing COVID-19 emergency response https://www.gov.ca.gov/california-takes-action-to-combat-covid-19/
March 19, 2020: Shopping for Food and Essentials
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 officials around the world are taking dramatic steps to limit large groups and encourage “social distancing” in hopes of limiting the spread of the disease. Many supermarkets and other stores are taking those some precautions, especially our seniors and the disabled.
The City of Rialto is working diligently with our area supermarkets. As they work to restock shelves and calm shoppers, some stores are taking steps to protect older and vulnerable customers who may be at the greatest risk from COVID-19.
Please click here for today’s Food and Essential Supplies Resource Guide. It has information for stores with added shopping times for seniors and disabled persons as well as contact information for organizations that may be able to assist with food and hygiene products.
A Statewide Resource:
Governor Gavin Newsom launched the State of California’s COVID-19 website which includes ways to stay healthy and resources available to Californians impacted by the outbreak. These include how to apply for unemployment and paid family leave. We’re all in this together. We are working rapidly to keep our state healthy.
March 18, 2020: Changes In The Community, If You Need Routine or Emergency Care and COVID-19 RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES, EMPLOYERS, AND EMPLOYEES
Changes In The Community:
Beginning today March 18, 2020 the San Bernardino County Public Health Director ordered the cancellation of gatherings of any number of people within the County through at least April 6, 2020. The order also requires the closure of all movie theaters, gyms, health clubs, bars, adult entertainment establishments, and other businesses that serve alcohol but do not serve food. Food and beverage establishment must follow guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health that requires restaurants be closed for dining and open only to drive-through, pick-up and delivery.
This action is incredibly impactful to our community, but it is established to slow the spread and reduce the impact of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America “15 Days to Slow The Spread” which notes, America can help slow the virus’ spread and keep our most high-risk populations safe:
- Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.
- If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.
- If your children are sick, keep them at home. Contact your medical provider.
- If someone in your household has tested positive for the Coronavirus, keep the entire household at home.
- If you are an older American, stay home and away from other people.
- If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition—such as a significant heart or lung problem—stay home and away from other people.
If You Need Routine or Emergency Care:
Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 that may have had contact with a person with COVID-19, or that recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread should call their health care provider or local public health department before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken, according to the department.
Should you need to call 9-1-1 and have flu-like symptoms or are under mandated/self-quarantine, please advise the dispatcher when you call. Sharing this vital information with 9-1-1 dispatchers will help our first responders take the necessary precautions to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
COVID-19 RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES, EMPLOYERS, AND EMPLOYEES
The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development has compiled helpful information about COVID-19 for employers and employees in California:
Link: https://business.ca.gov/coronavirus-2019/
The California State Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy has compiled resources available to businesses:
Link: https://ajed.assembly.ca.gov/content/covid-19-resources
The Small Business Administration is offering disaster assistance to small businesses in California that are economically impacted by Coronavirus:
Link: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources
The California Small Business Development Centers offers both State and federal information for small businesses:
Link: https://www.californiasbdc.org/covid19
The Employment Development Department can assist businesses that have employee and employer concerns:
March 17, 2020: Shopping Options, How to Contact City Departments During Facility Closures and COVID-19 Hotlines
Shopping Options:
Shopping for food, hygiene products and other essential items has become challenging, especially for seniors and other at-risk populations. Some of our local shopping locations have offered modifications to help the community:
Superior Markets – 151 W. Baseline Road will provide shopping for seniors (65 and older) and the disabled from 7am to 8am daily starting on March 18, 2020.
Walmart Supercenter – 1366 S. Riverside Avenue is providing grocery delivery via Door Dash as a new option.
As we receive information from other vendors in Rialto we will update this content.
How to Contact City Departments During Facility Closures:
Although City departments are closed to the public they are open for business by phone, email, fax and other than face-to-face means. If you need to contact one of our departments you contact them as below Monday through Thursday 7am to 6pm or navigate to their specific page on this website for additional information.
| Department | Phone Number |
| City Administration | 909-820-2689 |
| City Clerk / Management Services | 909-820-2519 |
| Community Development | 909-421-7246 |
| Community Services | 909-421-4949 |
| Finance / Information Technology | 909-820-2544 |
| Fire Department | 909-820-2501 |
| Police Department | 909-820-2550 |
| Human Resources / Risk Management | 909-820-2540 |
| Public Works | 909-820-2602 |
| Treasurer | 909-820-2418 |
COVID-19 Hotlines:
The County of San Bernardino has established a COVID-19 Public Information Line. The line is in operation from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. The phone number is (909) 387-3911. Please note that this line is for Public Information Only. Please contact your Health Care Provider for medical related questions.
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health Preparedness and Response Program has established a 24/7 phone number for COVID-19 inquiries by Health Care Facilities and general public, the number is 800-782-4264, press option 6.
The City of Rialto has established a COVID-19 Public Information Line. The line provides information and resources via a message updated daily. The phone number is (909) 820-2525 extension 2099.
March 16, 2020: The City of Rialto continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 (Corona Virus).
The City of Rialto continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 (Corona Virus). In accordance with best practices from Federal and State Health Agencies the City of Rialto is taking measured action, consistent with other agencies in the region, to reduce the risk of transmission and overall impact of COVID-19. The City has cancelled all City events and activities and will be closing all non-essential facilities to public at 7:00 a.m. Tuesday March 17, 2020 through at least April 6, 2020. For specific information on this action please see the City of Rialto Letter to the Community #2.
The City of Rialto is also advising residents to avoid non-essential gatherings to protect public health and slow the spread of COVID-19. If you must attend a gathering, please implement social distancing of six feet per person. Gatherings of individuals who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, specifically our senior community and those with underlying health conditions, should be avoided unless hygiene control and social distancing can be accomplished. The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health has established a 24/7 phone number for COVID-19 inquiries for use by Health Care Facilities and the general public. The number is 1-800-782-4264, press option 6.
Transmission Tip of the Day: The City of Rialto encourages you to help Break the Chain of Infection by following this Six Steps. (LINK TO “Coronavirus infographic….”)
March 11, 2020: The City of Rialto encourages those who live, work and play in the City to stay informed, practice prevention through good hygiene, be aware, and be prepared.
The City of Rialto has been tracking and is monitoring the emergency infections disease known as COVID-19 or Corona Virus Disease #19, commonly referred to as Corona Virus. The situation continues to evolve as a more cases are reported. The City’s Office of Emergency Services, led by your Rialto Fire Department in coordination with the Rialto Police Department and the support of all other City Departments is participating in briefings from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the State of California Department of Public Health, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, and the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services. The information shared is integrated into plan for COVID-19 in the City of Rialto.
What is COVID-19?
Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses that are common among animals and humans. This novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a newly discovered coronavirus that has not been previously detected in animals or humans. The source of this virus is not yet known.
What Are the Symptoms?
Typically, human coronaviruses cause mild-to-moderate respiratory illness although COVID-19 can cause more server respiratory illness. Symptoms are very similar to the flu, including:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Protect Yourself and Others
Clean your hands often
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Stay home if you’re sick
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care. Learn what to do if you are sick.
Cover coughs and sneezes
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash.
Clean and disinfect
Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
Resources:
The resources below provide links to external content that is routinely updated in reference to COVID-19:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
California Department of Public Health
San Bernardino County Department of Public Health
Inland Counties Emergency Medical Agency
Rialto Unified School District
