VENTURA COUNTY — The County of Ventura will close all of its buildings to the public effective Wednesday, March 18, as a precautionary measure to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The announcement comes as Governor Gavin Newsom directed closure of California’s bars, brewpubs and wineries, and called on people over 65 and others at higher risk of serious complications from exposure to the virus to stay at home.
County hospitals and clinics will remain open. All first response and public safety services will continue; and home visits and other services to vulnerable populations will also continue to be provided. The Airports will remain open. Members of the public will continue to be able to access most County services online. County staff will continue to report to work at their assigned work sites and provide services for the duration of the closure.
Ventura County libraries are also closed, along with every school district in the county.
Today, the Public Health Department confirmed 6 new cases of COVID-19 in Ventura County, bringing the total to 9 cases. Details on the new cases are under investigations while the individuals remain in quarantine.
“A threat like this requires bold action. We do not do it lightly. We need to do all we can to protect the public and our employees in the midst of this expanding public health crisis,” said County CEO, Mike Powers. “Our departments will continue to provide essential services to our residents, but it is prudent to limit public access to our facilities at this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and urge the public to follow the guidance of the Public Health Department.”
“Our goal is to slow the transmission of COVID-19, but we can’t do it alone,” said Public Health Officer, Doctor Robert Levin. “Each and every one of us, both businesses and residents, must do our part by practicing social distancing and taking common sense infection control precautions.”
“We urgently need to flatten the curve of COVID-19 in order to keep our hospitals and emergency rooms from becoming overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients,” he added. “Flattening the curve requires conscientious social distancing efforts by all our Ventura County residents during this time. Our collective efforts during this pandemic can literally save the lives of our loved ones and most vulnerable residents.”
All County phone lines will be staffed. Residents should call 805-654-5000 or visit www.vcemergency.com for up-to-date information on closures. Residents are encouraged to access services online at www.ventura.org.