Stay-at-home order remains for Contra Costa as hospitals invoke contingency care

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY—Nearly three weeks after going into effect, the Bay Area’s regional stay-home order remains in effect due to the lack of hospital beds for patients in need of intensive care. As of Jan. 7, the Bay Area had just 3.5% ICU availability, according to state data.

Health officials say capacity must meet or exceed 15% before the stay-at-home order will be lifted.

In Contra Costa County, health officials announced on Jan. 5 that all hospital facilities in the County – including John Muir Medical Center in Concord – are now operating under contingency care status in response to an unusually high volume of patients. People who have appointments or other business at these facilities should be aware that some care and services may be delayed. Residents are asked to avoid nonessential trips to these facilities and to contact their providers for more information.

COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID-19 vaccinations are still underway and people in all tiers of Phase 1A of the County’s vaccine plan are now eligible for no-cost immunizations. Phase 1A includes healthcare workers along with employees and residents of long-term care facilities. As of Jan. 7, more than 20,000 vaccine doses have been administered in Contra Costa County. People who live and work in the County are encouraged visit the CCHS vaccine web page.

Since testing began, Contra Costa County has reported 44,274 positive cases, with 5,340 positive cases in Concord, including 945 cases in the last 14 days. To review a demographic and geographic breakdown of cases, please see the County’s COVID-19 dashboard.

Contra Costa residents and businesses can also call the COVID-19 Call Center at (844) 729-8410 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.