County public health officials and hospital leaders are urging San Joaquin County residents to avoid testing or treating mild symptoms at hospital emergency departments.

Instead of the ER, officials advise residents to use SJReady.org for quick access to local testing sites nearby. Save even more time and register for COVID-19 testing at SJReady.org.

Hospitals are needed for those with severe COVID-19 symptoms or other critical illnesses.

County health officials also recommend that residents get vaccinated, get a booster shot if eligible, wear a mask in public places and use hospitals for emergency care only.