County Showing Progress Following Post-Labor Day Spike in Cases
Following a three-week period during which the County experienced significant increases in new COVID-19 cases and positivity rates — which public health data indicate were largely due to public gatherings over the Labor Day weekend — we’ve recently seen welcomed improvements in two key metrics: new cases and testing.
“Our case rate has declined from 9.6 to 9.1 new cases out of every 100,000 County residents,” said Corwin Porter, County health director. “While we still have a way to go to get to the state’s Red Tier, this is a notable improvement from prior weeks and — we hope — signals a favorable new trend. Moreover, we’ve seen a solid jump in our testing rate — from about 178 tests per 100,000 residents to just under 190.”
Porter reminded readers that the County needs to test an average of 216 people per 100,000 residents per day to meet the state’s requirements for reopening additional businesses and schools. He encouraged everyone to get tested at their earliest convenience.
“Getting tested is one of the few specific steps — beyond following basic guidelines such as wearing a mask, social distancing and avoiding gatherings — that residents can take to help us move into the state’s Red Tier,” he said. “And getting to the Red Tier will allow us to reopen more schools, churches and businesses.
Getting tested is free and is available to anyone who either lives or works in San Bernardino County.
Among the County’s multiple testing sites are two that are providing tests on Saturdays through November 21: the Department of Behavioral Health Auditorium in Rialto and Victor Valley College in Victorville. In addition, Loveland Church in Fontana is doing tests this Saturday (only) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
While scheduling an appointment is encouraged, most sites also offer walk-ups. To see all testing sites, review the FAQs and to make an appointment, visit our testing webpage here. appointment, visit our testing webpage here.