Hospital Intensive Care Units (ICU) in San Joaquin County were operating at 135 percent capacity as of Monday afternoon, Aug. 3 while total hospital capacity was at 75 percent.

“In the first three days of August, hospitals have reported the deaths of 19 patients from COVID-19. It is a sobering reminder that COVID-19 is lethal and directly impacts people living in San Joaquin County, especially at risk populations. I encourage everyone to protect one another by wearing a mask in public and practicing social distancing,” said Katherine Shafer, M.D., EMS Medical Director.

What People Should Do If They Have A Medical Emergency Or Are Sick:

Do not delay seeking care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency such as a heart attack, stroke, difficulty breathing or altered mental status contact 911 to activate the EMS system. If you are ill or sick contact your physician or healthcare provider.

How People Can Protect Themselves:

We are all in this together. Every person has a role to play. Your actions save lives.

DO: Stay home; Avoid people outside your household; Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; Wear a face mask when out in public; Cover your cough or sneeze; Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces; Maintain physical distance of six feet whenever outside of the house; Stay away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.

San Joaquin County OES in partnership with San Joaquin County EMS Agency is providing updates daily on the most current hospital statistics, Monday through Friday.