Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

Alameda County Health Officials Strongly Recommend COVID Vaccine Boosters for All Adults - issued November 18, 2021

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommended today COVID-19 boosters for all adults who have been fully vaccinated with the COVID-19 Pfizer or Moderna vaccines at least six months ago. People can choose a different COVID-19 vaccine than their original series as a booster.  The CDC previously recommended a booster for all adults who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago.

As there is emerging evidence that immunity from the COVID-19 vaccine may wane over time, it is recommended that adults should get their booster now, if eligible.  The Alameda County Public Health Officer, Dr. Nicholas Moss, indicated that a rise in COVID-19 cases is expected "as people gather with friends and family indoors and travel for the holidays." 

The Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson booster doses are the same dosage as the original vaccine received in the series, while the Moderna booster dose is half the dosage of the original vaccine series.  A person can receive their booster from any location, not necessarily where they received their initial vaccine series.  Booster appointments are also available through MyTurn.ca.gov.

Alameda County Health Officer Order Requires COVID-19 Vaccination of First Responders and Medical Transport Providers to Protect Patients in High-Risk Health Care Settings - issued November 9, 2021

The Alameda County Health Officer ordered today that all 9-1-1 ambulance support, non-emergency medical transport, and first responders (including law enforcement officers and fire personnel) to be fully vaccinated against COVID by December 21, 2021.  The Health Order applies to individuals in Alameda County who enter high-risk health care facilities, as described in the State of California's Health Order of August 5, 2021.  Individuals who are not fully vaccinated by December 21 must wear masks while in the presence of patients or residents and must test for COVID-19 weekly. 

Alameda County to Ease Masking Requirements for Fully Vaccinated People in Limited Indoor Settings - issued October 28, 2021

Beginning November 1, the County of Alameda will begin to ease masking requirements in certain indoor settings where everyone is fully vaccinated.  Eligible settings are in controlled spaces not open to the general public, including offices; gyms and fitness centers; employee commuter vehicles; and organized indoor gatherings where a group meets on a regular basis, such as religious gatherings.

Under the Health Officer Order, participating businesses, organizations, or hosts must verify that all patrons, employees, and attendees are fully vaccinated before allowing people to go unmasked inside their facilities.  Additionally, there can be no more than 100 people present at these facilities, and those present cannot have COVID-19 symptoms.  Employers or hosts must be shown proof of one's vaccination status, and identities must be confirmed with government-issued identifications, such as a driver's license or passport.

Indoor masking requirements will remain in effect in other public settings, such as bars, restaurants, and retail establishments, and in indoor K-12 school settings.  Businesses and workplaces can continue to require indoor masking of everyone in these non-public places if they choose, and employees and patrons can choose to wear a mask indoors if they prefer. 

The State of California continues to require face coverings for all unvaccinated persons in indoor public settings, and for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, in health care facilities, on public transit, and in adult and senior care facilties.

Read the full press release.

CDC Recommends COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters for Older Adults and Certain Groups - issued October 22, 2021

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is now recommending that adults over the age of 65 and other groups who received initial doses of the COVID-19 vaccine should get a booster shot.  

As recent evidence suggests that immunity from the COVID-19 vaccination may wane over time, booster doses are recommended for older adults and younger people with underlying conditions or certain risk factors who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine more than six months ago, and anyone who received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago.  Health officials are now permitting the "mixing and matching" of vaccines, so recipients may choose a different COVID-19 vaccine than their original shot.

A single COVID-19 vaccine booster shot is now recommended if you completed a Pfizer or Moderna (mRNA) vaccination series six or more months ago and you are:

• Aged 65 or older or
• A long-term care resident that is aged 18 or older, or
• Aged 50-64 and have an underlying medical condition, or 
• Aged 50-64 and at an increased risk due to poverty or lack of healthcare access

Boosters should also be considered if you are:

• Aged 18-49 and have an underlying medical condition or are at risk due to poverty or lack of healthcare access or 
• Aged 18-49 and work or live in a high-risk setting, such as a shelter

The booster dose for the Moderna vaccine is one-half the dose used for the initial series.  Booster doses are also recommended for anyone aged 18 and older who received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Any eligible person seeking a booster shot should consult with their medical provider or access the booster through a chain pharmacy.  Visit vaccines.gov for more information.

Bay Area Health Officers Issue Criteria for Lifting COVID-19 Indoor Masking Requirements - issued October 7, 2021

Bay Area health officers announced today that indoor masking requirements in public spaces may soon be lifted if certain criteria within jurisdictions are met.  (The City of Dublin's jurisdiction is Alameda County.)

• The jurisdiction (Alameda County) reaches the moderate (yellow) tier, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and remains at that level for three weeks;
• Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 remain low and stable;
• Eighty percent of the jurisdiction's (Alameda County's) total population is fully vaccinated with two doses of Pfizer or Moderna or one dose of Johnson & Johnson; OR eight weeks have passed since a COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for emergency use by federal and state authorities for five- to 11-year-olds.

Approval of the vaccine for five- to 11-year-olds is anticipated sometime between Halloween and Thanksgiving. Under this framework, it is possible that the indoor mask mandate will remain in place through the end of the year.

Alameda County Public Health Department Recommends Third Vaccine Dose for Immunocompromised Residents - Issued September 2, 2021

The Alameda County Public Health Department is now recommending that immunocompromised individuals schedule a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccination.  Third doses are authorized for moderately to severely immunocompromised people who have received two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines (mRNA vaccines).  This is not recommended for those who received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  

Immunocompromised individuals are encouraged to speak with their health care provider before getting the third dose, and they must sign a self-attestation indicating that they qualify. The attestation form can be signed electronically when making an appointment.  Individuals must wait until at least 28 days have passed since receiving their second dose of the vaccine, and they need to register for the same vaccine that they have already received (e.g., two doses of Moderna must be followed by a third dose of Moderna).

COVID-19 Testing Available Each Wednesday at the Dublin Senior Center - issued August 23, 2021

The City of Dublin has partnered with Curative to provide free COVID-19 testing every Wednesday, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Dublin Senior Center. 

Appointments are not necessary, and the service is open to all ages. Identification is required for adults, however children may get tested without ID as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian. Proof of insurance is not required. 

The COVID-19 test is a shallow nasal swap tests, the results for which will be available within 48 hours. This weekly testing operation will continue until the service is determined to no longer be needed. 

To learn more, visit https://curative.com/sites/31104.

One Million Alameda County Residents Are Now Fully Vaccinated - issued July 23, 2021

One million Alameda County residents are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. At this milestone, 70.7% of all eligible residents over age 12 are fully vaccinated and over 83.3% have had at least one dose. However, vaccination rates vary in communities across Alameda County and health agency officials are redoubling efforts to address disparities. 

Alameda County has seen a rise in new cases specifically impacting those communities where vaccination rates are lowest, including in neighborhoods that have already been hit hardest by COVID-19. While a small number of generally mild cases are reported among vaccinated residents, the vast majority of new cases are occurring in unvaccinated people. 

Health officials urge all residents who are eligible to get the vaccine and everyone, whether vaccinated or not, to wear a mask in indoor public settings. Anyone still undecided about vaccination should continue to follow COVID-19 safety precautions to keep from catching or spreading the virus, like wearing a mask in outdoor crowded spaces. Getting COVID-19 can still lead to severe illness, hospitalization, and death for unvaccinated individuals, including youth and young adults, and vaccination is the best protection against severe COVID-19 infection.

Residents who are eligible and have not received a vaccination or haven’t received their second dose of a two-dose vaccination series are encouraged to call 510-208-4VAX (510-208-4829) or visit bit.ly/getalcovaxed to arrange an appointment or drop by a location near them.

Bay Area Counties Recommend Masking Indoors for Everyone as Precaution Against an Increase of COVID-19 - issued July 16, 2021

With cases of COVID-19 rising locally and increased circulation of the highly transmissible Delta variant, the Counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma, and the City of Berkeley recommend that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear masks indoors in public places to ensure easy verification that all unvaccinated people are masked in those settings and as an extra precautionary measure for all.

Out of an abundance of caution, people are recommended to wear masks indoors in settings like grocery or retail stores, theaters, and family entertainment centers, even if they are fully vaccinated as an added layer of protection for unvaccinated residents. Businesses are urged to adopt universal masking requirements for customers entering indoor areas of their businesses to provide better protection to their employees and customers.

Uptick in COVID-19 Cases in Alameda County - issued July 8, 2021

Alameda County Public Health Department issued a statement yesterday indicating that there’s been an increase in COVID-19 cases that threatens to exceed the Spring 2021 wave seen earlier this year.  Hospitalizations are also on the rise. In early June, cases and hospitalizations were at their lowest levels since April 2020. The daily number of cases averaged as low as 28 per day.  As of yesterday, daily cases are averaging over 70 per day, with over 100 new cases reported on some recent days. 

New cases are impacting those communities where vaccination rates are lowest, including in priority neighborhoods that have already been hit hardest by COVID-19. The latest increases are likely due to reopened activities along with decreasing mask use. The Delta variant of the virus is likely having an impact, too. While a small number of generally mild cases are reported among vaccinated residents, the vast majority of new cases are in unvaccinated people.  

Alameda County continues to prioritize vaccinating residents in disproportionally impacted neighborhoods by partnering closely with community organizations on outreach and operating hyperlocal vaccination sites where vaccination rates are lower.  

The City of Dublin held a vaccination clinic on Wednesday, July 7 at the Dublin Senior Center (sponsored by Curative), with a second clinic to be held on July 28.  On July 21, the Dublin Library will hold another vaccination clinic, sponsored by Axis Community Health.  The second date for that clinic will be on August 11.

Vaccination Clinics to be Held at the Dublin Library on July 21 and August 11

Axis Community Health will be holding free COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics at the Dublin Library (200 Civic Plaza) on Wednesday, July 21, and Wednesday, August 11, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., on both dates.  Pfizer and the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccines will be offered.  No insurance is needed, and multiple languages will be accommodated.  The first 50 individuals getting their first dose of the vaccine will receive a $25 gift certificate to DoorDash.  

City of Dublin to Host Vaccination Clinics on July 7 and July 28 at Dublin Senior Center

On Wednesday, July 7, and Wednesday, July 28, 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the City of Dublin will host COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics at the Dublin Senior Center (7600 Amador Valley Blvd.). There is no cost for the vaccination, and neither insurance nor proof of citizenship are required.  The Pfizer vaccine will be available for ages 12+.  The one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be available for ages 18+. While appointments are not necessary, an appointment may be scheduled at  cur.tv/dublin or by calling 888-702-9042.

Cal/OSHA Approves Changes to Mask Mandate in the Workplace - issued June 17, 2021

California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) voted yesterday to allow vaccinated employees to work indoors without wearing a face covering.  Unvaccinated workers must continue to wear a mask indoors, unless alone in a room or vehicle.  In order for employers to allow vaccinated employees to go without face coverings, they must document a worker's vaccination status.  Workers do not have to provide documentation regarding their status, but can "self-attest" that they are vaccinated.  Workers can decline to state if they are vaccinated or not, but they will be treated as if they are unvaccinated.

Employers must provide masks, such as the N95 mask, available for unvaccinated workers, if they request them.

No face coverings are required outdoors unless there is a COVID outbreak.  If there is a COVID outbreak, masks will be mandated for all workers indoors, and outdoors if six-foot distancing cannot be maintained.

No physical distancing or barriers between workers are required, regardless of an employee's vaccination status, but employers can re-evaluate the need for barriers should an outbreak occur.  Distancing and barriers will be mandated if a major outbreak of 20 or more cases occurs. 

Asymptomatic workers who are fully vaccinated do not need to be tested or quarantined if they are exposed to the virus.

Alameda County Rescinds Shelter-in-Place Order to Align With the State's Public Health Order - issued June 14, 2021

Effective June 15, Alameda County Public Health Department will rescind its current Shelter-in-Place Order in order to align with the State of California's "Beyond the Blueprint" framework. Physical distancing, capacities on businesses, colored county tiers, and restrictive mask mandates will no longer be required.  The County reports that nearly 80 percent of residents, ages 12 and older, have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, which has resulted in reduced case rates.  Alameda County has also aligned itself with the State's face masking mandate, which still requires the wearing of masks in the following settings, even for fully vaccinated individuals:

• On public transit and in transit hubs (airports, bus terminals, train/subway stations, and ferry landings)
• Indoors in schools and childcare/youth settings
• Healthcare settings and long-term care facilities
• Correctional facilities and detention centers
• Homeless shelters, emergency shelters, and cooling centers

Masks will continue to be required for unvaccinated individuals in indoor public settings and businesses and at mega events, as well as settings serving children and youth.

All workplaces governed by Cal/OSHA Emergency Temporary Standards must continue to follow current standards and future updates, including masking requirements for employees.

The County recommends everyone, ages 12 and older, to get a COVID-19 vaccine in order to continue to curb the spread of the coronavirus.  All three vaccines - Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson - are available at all County-supported vaccination sites, but only the Pfizer vaccine is approved for those aged 12-17.  Visit Vaccines Guidance & Resources | COVID-19 | Alameda County Public Health (acgov.org) to sign up to receive a vaccine. 

Alameda County is hosting two events to help residents and businesses understand the changing guidance:

• For residents: June 15, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
• For businesses: June 21, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

For information on how to participate, visit: Beyond the Blueprint | COVID-19 | Alameda County Public Health (acgov.org).  Recordings of the events will also be available on Facebook and YouTube after the events.  

Alameda County to Move into the Yellow Tier of the State's "Blueprint for a Safer Economy" - issued June 8, 2021

Alameda County Public Health Department has announced that beginning tomorrow, June 9, the County will move into the State of California's "Yellow Tier," per its "Blueprint for a Safer Economy."  This comes one week prior to the date of June 15, when the State of California will no longer require physical distancing or limited capacity for most businesses and activities.  Currently, Alameda County has an adjusted daily new case rate per 100,000 residents of 1.5, and a testing positivity rate of .7 percent.  

In the yellow tier, capacity limits loosen for gatherings, private events, performances, gyms, bars, and more.

• Gatherings: Outdoors, maximum 100 people. Indoor gatherings are still strongly discouraged, but allowed with modifications and a maximum 50% capacity in settings where capacity limits exist or 50 people, whichever is fewer.
• Private Events: Outdoors, maximum 200 people. That rises to maximum 400 people if all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination. Indoors maximum 200 if all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination.  With modifications: Purchased tickets or defined guest list; eating chart/assigned seating; no intermingling of multiple private events.
• Indoor seated live events and performances: All venues must admit in-state visitors only, with weekly worker testing; digital tickets; pre-designated eating area with six feet of distance; and suites at 25% capacity with a maximum of three households. 
  • For venues up to 1,500 people: Maximum 25% or 300 people. That rises to 50% if all guests are vaccinated or show proof of full vaccination. 
  • For venues 1,501 and above: Maximum 10% capacity or 2,000, whichever is fewer with modifications and no eating or drinking. That rises to 50% if all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination.
• Limited Services: Open with modifications.
• Outdoor playgrounds and outdoor recreational facilities: Open with modifications.
• Hair salons and barbershops: Open indoors with modifications.
• All retail: Open indoors with modifications.
• Shopping centers: Open indoors with modifications. Reduced capacity food courts.
• Personal care services: Open indoors with modifications.
• Museums, zoos, and aquariums: Open indoors with modifications.
• Places of worship: Open indoors with modifications. Maximum 50% capacity.
• Movie theaters: Open indoors with modifications. Maximum 50% capacity.
• Hotels and lodging: Open with modifications. Fitness and spa centers, maximum 50% capacity.
• Gyms and fitness centers: Open indoors with modifications and maximum 50% capacity. This includes steam rooms and saunas.
• Restaurants: Open indoors with modifications and maximum 50% capacity.
• Bars (where no meal is provided): Open indoors with modifications and maximum 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
• Wineries, breweries, and distilleries: Open indoors with modifications. Maximum 50% capacity or 200 people indoors, whichever is fewer.
• Family entertainment centers: Indoors maximum 50% capacity. That rises to 75% if all guests are tested or show proof of full vaccination. With modifications: 100% masking except for food and beverage service, which must be restricted to separate areas.
• Cardrooms, satellite wagering: Open indoors with modifications and maximum 50% capacity.
• Offices: Open indoors with modifications. Encourage telework.
• Sports and live performances: Maximum 67% capacity, includes suites with 25% occupancy per suite. Assigned seating required. In-state visitors only. Indoor concessions allowed in designated areas.
• Amusement parks: Maximum 35% capacity. Indoor capacity, maximum 25% capacity with time restrictions; weekly worker testing; and in-state visitors only.
• Waterparks: Maximum 40% capacity. Indoor capacity maximum 25% capacity. Collection of contact tracing Information required.
• Overnight sleepaway camps: Open with modifications.

Alameda County to Host "Beyond the Blueprint" Town Hall Meetings for Residents and Employers - issued June 7, 2021

With the State of California planning to fully reopen the economy on June 15, Alameda County will host two virtual events in order to explain what that means for residents and businesses. The first event, for residents of Alameda County, will take place on Tuesday, June 15, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.  Register here: Alameda County Update: Moving Beyond the Blueprint for a Safer Economy (constantcontact.com) (for residents). 

The second event, for employers and business owners, will take place on Monday, June 21, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.  This event will help employers and business owners learn about Cal/OSHA requirements, workplace safety recommendations, and more.  Employers can register here: Alameda County Update: Moving Beyond the Blueprint for a Safer Economy (constantcontact.com) (for employers).  Businesses may also visit https://covid-19.acgov.org/recovery for more information. 

Live translation services, in Cantonese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and American Sign Language, will be available during the webinars.  

Vaccination Site at Alameda County Fairgrounds to Close at the End of May - issued May 21, 2021

As a majority of Alameda County and Tri-Valley residents have been vaccinated, and the demand for vaccinations has decreased over the past few weeks, the mass vaccination site at the Alameda County Fairgrounds will close at the end of May.  Alameda County reports that 75.3% of its residents have received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 58.4% are full vaccinated.  Stanford Healthcare – ValleyCare will be relocating their vaccination site to their Livermore campus at 1119 E. Stanley Boulevard.  This is an indoor site, allowing for up to 700 appointments per day.  Visit Stanford Healthcare - ValleyCare to learn how to book a vaccination appointment with that provider.

California to Lift All Capacity Limits and Social Distancing Requirements on June 15; Bay Area Health Officials Issue Statement of Support for Maintaining Masking Indoors - issued May 21, 2021

Citing increased vaccination rates and low COVID-19 hospitalization rates, the State of California has announced that it will no longer require physical distancing or limited capacity anywhere as of June 15. There will continue to be some guidance on face coverings, in line with the CDC guidelines.  Some businesses may also continue to require masks for the health and safety of their own patrons and employees if they so choose.  For large outdoor gatherings with more than 10,000 people, organizers will be required to check for proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test, but patrons without either of those may be allowed in if they wear a face covering.  For indoor events with more than 5,000 people, attendees must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter; masking alone will not provide entry.  The Department of Public Health will also lift all isolation and quarantining requirements for travelers, and will instead issue a travel advisory that aligns with CDC guidance.  Please visit Beyond the Blueprint Framework for Industry and Business Sectors, with Limited Exceptions (ca.gov) for full details.  The Association of Bay Area Health Officials also released a statement this week supporting the State’s decision to maintain masking indoors, despite the CDC’s announcement that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks in certain indoor settings.

Bay Area Health Officers Support California Face Masking Guidance - Issued May 19, 2021

The Association of Bay Area Health Officials, representing 12 Bay Area Health Officers and their local health jurisdictions, has stated that they strongly support the California Department of Public Health's strategy to continue with current masking guidance until June 15, when the State will align with the CDC's masking guidance.  With large numbers of residents across the State still unvaccinated, not yet fully vaccinated, or not eligible to be vaccinated, the wearing of masks now will help ensure the health and safety of those who are not fully protected from the coronavirus.

Safe, Effective COVID-19 Vaccine Approved for Children, Ages 12 and Up - issued May 13, 2021

Alameda County Public Health Department has announced that the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19 has been proven safe for children, ages 12 and up.  The written consent of a parent or guardian will be required at the time of appointment registration and the physical presence of a parent or guardian at time of vaccination is preferred.

On May 12, both the Centers for Disease Controls (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Western States Scientific Safety Review (WSSSR) both agreed that the Pfizer vaccine can be safely administered to children, ages 12 and older, to prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19.  

The vaccine will be available at some providers immediately and will become available soon at others.

• Visit MyTurn.CA.gov to find clinics and pharmacies that are offering the Pfizer vaccine and have open appointments for patients 12 and older.
• Reach out to your health care provider to see when they will begin vaccinating youth, ages 12-15.
• Stanford Children’s Health at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton (Drive-Through Only): Tuesday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
• UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland (BCHO) will begin vaccinating the 12-15-year-old age group on Thursday, May 13. All children and youth in the community, ages 12 to 21, are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination at BCHO.  Patients 12 to 17 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Vaccines are administered in the BCH Oakland Outpatient Center, 747-52nd Street, Oakland; Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Saturday appointments may become available at a later date.  To make an appointment, patients or caregivers should call (415) 514-1196, Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  
• Alameda County’s Community Points of Dispensing (PODs) will start offering the Pfizer vaccine on Family Days, starting May 20. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine will also be available for anyone who is 18 and older. Parents, guardians, or caregivers will be able to make an appointment here: https://www.primarybio.com/r/alco-vax-signup or by calling 510-208-4VAX (4829).

Oakland Coliseum Vaccination Site to Close on May 23 - issued May 5, 2021

Alameda County and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) announced that after successfully administering nearly 250,000 doses to Alameda County residents, the Oakland Coliseum mega vaccination site will be closing. The site experienced a rapid reduction in first dose appointments over the last two weeks of April. The site closure comes as CalOES concludes its deployment on May 9 and public requests for first dose appointments at the site have dropped from 4,000/day to 400/day. The County will take over the site on May 10th and keep it open for two more weeks to complete second doses. The Pedestrian Village is only open through May 9th for individuals already scheduled for second dose appointments. Alameda County is shifting to more focused and localized options that address a changing vaccine.  

All Welcome for COVID Vaccine Appointments at Axis Clinics  - issued May 3, 2021

In addition to Countywide vaccination efforts, Axis Community Health clinics in Pleasanton (5925 W. Las Positas Blvd., Suite 100) and Livermore (3311 Pacific Ave) are offering drive-thru and walk-up appointments for ages 16 and older.  Call (925) 462-1755 to schedule an appointment. Vaccinations are free and no insurance is required.  Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are all offered.  Axis staff can accommodate multiple languages.  

Places of Worship Now Allowed to Open at Full Capacity - issued April 20

Following a Supreme Court ruling, places of worship in California may now operate indoors at full capacity. While capacity limits are not mandatory, the State of California recommends continual adherence to previous guidelines, for continual safety against the pandemic.  

Alameda County Public Health Department advises that to keep each other safe from the coronavirus, please continue to wear a mask when you leave home; keep at least six feet of distance from anyone not in your household; and wash your hands regularly.  

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Expands to All Californians, Aged 16 and Older - issued April 16

Oakland Coliseum Remains an Active Vaccination Site for Alameda County Residents - issued April 12

The Oakland Coliseum Mega Vaccination Site will remain active for the next four weeks under an agreement between the Counties of Alameda and Contra Costa and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.  The decision comes at the conclusion of a Federally-supported pilot project to establish Community Vaccination Centers.  The feasibility of continuing operations beyond the four weeks is under review.  The site is expected to deliver up to 6,000 vaccines per day.

The site is open to those who live or work in the counties of Alameda and Contra Costa only, and operates Monday – Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with 17 drive-thru lanes, as well as walk-up appointments accessible by fare-free rides with AC Transit and BART. 

Vaccine appointments can continue to be made through the State’s MyTurn.ca.gov website or by calling 833-422-4255.

Governor Newsom Announces Plans to Reopen California by June 15 - issued April 6, 2021

Governor Newsom announced today that on June 15, all industries across the state can return to usual operations, as long as people continue to wear masks and get vaccinated. The standards for this "re-opening" include: (1) Having a vaccine supply that is sufficient for people 16 years of age and older to receive a shot within two weeks, and (2) there is a consistent low burden of disease (i.e., stable and low hospitalizations). The State may revisit the June 15 date depending on the progress made with vaccinations and a continued decrease in COVID-19 illnesses.

Alameda County Moves Into Less-Restrictive Orange Tier, Allowing for Additional Activities - issued March 30, 2021

With the State of California's announcement today that Alameda County has moved into the Orange Tier of its "Blueprint for a Safer Economy," the County will allow for additional activities to resume, with modifications and limited capacities, beginning March 31:

• Bars: Outdoors with modifications; no meals required to be served
• Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries: Indoors at 25 percent maximum capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer; no meals required to be served
• Family entertainment centers: Indoors for naturally distanced activities like bowling, escape rooms, and billiards; 25 percent maximum capacity
• Gyms, fitness centers, and studios (including at hotels): 25 percent maximum capacity and indoor pools are permitted; indoor hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms continue to be closed
• Movie Theaters: 50 percent maximum capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer
• Museums, Zoos, and Aquariums: 50 percent maximum capacity
• Offices: Indoors with modifications and remote work (telework) is strongly encouraged
• Places of worship: 50 percent maximum capacity
• Restaurants: 50 percent maximum capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer
• Retail: Open indoors with modifications and food courts permitted with indoor dining restrictions

Activities eligible to start on April 1:

• Outdoor sports and live performances with fans/attendees: In the Orange Tier, capacity will be limited to 33 percent and with advanced reservations only. Concession sales will be primarily in-seat (no concourse sales).  Designated indoor seated dining area capacity will be limited to 25 percent.  Attendance will be limited to in-state spectators and guests must attest their reserved seats are only for one household.
• Amusement parks: In the Orange Tier, overall park capacity and indoor capacity will be limited to 25 percent, including indoor dining.  Small groups with a maximum of three household groups may attend together.  Attendance will be limited to in-state visitors.  Walk up ticket sales will be permitted, but park operators must collect name and contact information of the ticket purchases for necessary contract tracing.

Alameda County must remain in the Orange Tier for a minimum of three weeks before moving into the next less-restrictive color tier, even though metrics might warrant it.  The County currently has a testing positivity rate of 1.1 percent.

Read the full press release.

COVID-19 Testing Site at Alameda County Fairgrounds to Relocate to Livermore Location - issued March 18, 2021

As COVID-19 testing demand has dropped in recent weeks, Stanford Healthcare - Valley Care will consolidate its testing operations and relocate the site at the Alameda County Fairgrounds to an existing testing site in Livermore, effective April 1.  The Livermore site is located at 1111 E. Stanley Boulevard in Livermore.  That site is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to noon.  While appointments are preferred, same day access without an appointment is available by calling 925-734-3376   

The scope of testing services at the Livermore location will include:

• Patients presenting with or without a physician order
• Access to scheduled appointment times, including same-day availability

By consolidating testing sites, additional personnel and resources can be deployed for COVID-19 vaccine administration.  

Since the beginning of operations in April 2020 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds, nearly 32,000 tests were administered.  During peak months, an average of 200 tests were administered per day.  

Livermore COVID-19 testing location map and related information.

State of California Allows for Additional Activities in the Red Tier - updated March 11, 2021

The State of California updated its public health guidance today, allowing for additional operations in the Red Tier of the "Blueprint for a Safer Economy." Breweries, wineries, and distilleries that do not serve meals can now open outdoors with modifications.  The modifications include ensuring that patrons have reservations and observe a 90-minute time limit at the site.  On-site consumption must end by 8:00 p.m.  Bars that do not serve meals must remain closed under Red Tier guidelines.

Additionally, beginning June 1, overnight sleepaway camps will be allowed to resume with modifications in the Red, Orange, and Yellow tiers.

Alameda County Moves Back to the Red Tier Beginning March 10 - issued March 9, 2021

With COVID-19 cases on the decline and vaccination rates rising, Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Anthony Moss has announced that the County will move back to the Red Tier in the State's "Blueprint for Safer Economy," beginning Wednesday, March 10.

Businesses and activities permitted to open indoors, with capacity restrictions and modifications:

• Restaurants: 25 percent maximum capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer
• Retail: 50 percent maximum capacity and food courts permitted with indoor dining restrictions
• Grocery stores: full capacity while following retail industry guidance
• Movie Theaters: 25 percent maximum capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer
• Museums, Zoos, and Aquariums: 25 percent maximum capacity
• Gyms, fitness centers, and studios (including at hotels): 10 percent maximum capacity; climbing walls are permitted

Limited gatherings of no more than three households are also now permitted indoors under State guidance, but outdoors is still strongly encouraged.  Masks and physical distancing are still required for these gatherings, and anyone who is experiencing symptoms must not attend. Per state guidance, singing, shouting, chanting, or cheering are strongly discouraged and not permitted indoors. Those at high risk of severe illness are strongly encouraged not to attend.  Large gatherings are still prohibited.

The guidelines will also allow for the resumption of the following activities beginning on April 1:

• Outdoor sports and live performances with fans/attendees: 20 percent maximum capacity with advanced reservations only. Concession sales will be primarily in-seat (no concourse sales).  Attendance will be limited to in-state visitors.
• Amusement parks: 15 percent maximum capacity with online ticket purchases only.  Small groups with a maximum of 10 people or three household groups may attend together, but with no intergroup mixing.  Indoor dining will not be permitted.  Attendance will be limited to in-state visitors.

The State of California has also updated its metrics to include a California Vaccine Equity Metric, recognizing that COVID-19 has not affected all communities equally.  The initial goal of the Vaccine Equity Metric is to deliver a minimum of two million doses to the hardest-hit quarter of the State as measured by the Healthy Places Index.  One-point-six million doses have currently been delivered to this quarter of the State.  Once the two million doses goal is reached, the State will update the "Blueprint for a Safer Economy" to allow for a slightly higher case rates in each tier, with the overall effect of allowing counties to move through the color tiers at a faster, but still measured and safe, pace.

LAVTA to Offer Free Rides to Vaccination Sites in the Tri-Valley - issued February 26, 2021

Beginning Monday, March 1, the Livermore Amador Valley Transit Authority (LAVTA) will provide free rides on existing Wheels, Rapid, and Dial-a-Ride services to and from any COVID-19 vaccination site in Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton.  This includes rides to hospitals, pharmacies, and other immunization sites.  To receive the free ride, passengers must show physical or digital confirmation of the same-day vaccination appointment.  Visit www.wheelsbus.com for more information.

Alameda County Seniors, aged 65+, May Now Book an Appointment Directly to Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine - February 25, 2021

Alameda County seniors, aged 65+, can now book an appointment directly to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Proof of age and residency will be required when arriving at the Fairgrounds.

Alameda County Fairgrounds - Public Registration

Alameda County Fairgrounds to Open for Appointment-Only COVID-19 Vaccinations - issued February 16, 2021

Beginning Wednesday, February 17, the Alameda County Fairgrounds will become a COVID-19 vaccination site for those with appointments through Stanford Health Care - Valley Care, Sutter Health, and Alameda County Health Department.  Supply is extremely limited and drop-ins are not allowed.  Currently, these health care providers are vaccinating health care workers and patients age 65 and older.

In the coming weeks, the site will also be able to open to essential workers in the Food/Agriculture, Education/Childcare, and Emergency Services sectors.

Drive-thru lanes will be available for each vaccination provider.  Visit the Alameda County Fairgrounds website for additional Vaccine Center information.

Stanford Health Care - Valley Care patients can schedule an appointment here: https://stanfordhealthcare.org/discover/covid-19-resource-center/patient-care/safety-health-vaccine-planning.html or by calling (650) 498-9000.

Sutter Health patients can schedule an appointment here: https://www.sutterhealth.org/for-patients/health-alerts/covid-19-vaccine or by calling (844) 987-6115.

Other Alameda County residents can sign up at https://covid-19.acgov.org/vaccines to be notified when it's their turn to be vaccinated.  Appointments are by invitation only at this time.  

Those with appointments can access the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton through Gate 8 off of Valley Avenue.  Directional signs will lead patients to the vaccination area.  

Residents may visit https://covid-19.acgov.org/vaccines to learn when they are eligible to make an appointment through their health care provider to receive a vaccine.

Indoor Worship Services and Cultural Ceremonies Now Allowed Under State and County Health Orders - issued February 8, 2021

In response to a recent judicial ruling, indoor worship services and cultural ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals, will now be allowed, with modifications and at 25% maximum capacity, under the current State and County Health Order.  Alameda County is currently in the Purple Tier of the State of California's Blueprint for a Safer Economy.

Governor Newsom Lifts Current Shelter-in-Place Order - issued January 25, 2021

Governor Newsom has lifted the current Shelter-in-Place Order, which has been in place since December 7.  Alameda County will move back to the restrictive Purple Tier in the State's "Blueprint for a Safer Economy" as of 11:59 p.m. tonight, January 25. 

Sectors which will be allowed to continue operating indoors, with modifications, include:

• Hair salons and barbershops 
• Grocery stores with a maximum of 50% capacity
• All retail with a maximum 25% capacity (indoor food courts must remain closed)
• Personal Care Services (e.g., nail salons, massage, skin care)
• Hotels and and other lodging (gyms, fitness centers, and indoor pools must remain closed)
• Limited Services (e.g., laundromats, dry cleaners, auto repair, landscapers, janitorial, home repair, contractors)
• Critical infrastructure

Sectors which will be allowed to operate outdoors, with modifications, include:

• Outdoor playgrounds
• Campgrounds
• Cardrooms and racetracks
• Family centers and movie theaters
• Gyms
• Museums
• Places of worship and cultural centers
• Restaurants, wineries, and tasting rooms
• Zoos and aquariums

Gatherings must be limited to members of no more than three households.  Gatherings must be outside, socially distanced, and all attendees must wear face coverings.

Sectors which must remain closed:

• Bars, breweries, and distilleries where no food is served.
• Amusement parks

COVID-19 Vaccines: Sign Up to Get Notified When it's Your Turn - issued January 13, 2021

Alameda County Public Health Department has created registration forms for residents, employers, and health care providers to inform you when it is your turn to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The County is following the State's prioritization framework, which is based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.  How quickly the vaccine will be distributed to different groups will be based on the vaccine supply provided to the County.

The County is currently in the first phase (Phase 1A) of vaccine distribution, and anticipates beginning Phase 1B in February (as vaccine supply allows).  These confidential forms are not a registration to receive a vaccine, but are to inform you of the status of distribution. Completing the form helps the County in its planning efforts.  In the meantime, the County urges everyone to protect themselves from COVID-19 by wearing a mask, keeping a safe distance from others, avoiding crowds, and washing  hands frequently.  

For more information, and to complete the form, please visit: https://covid-19.acgov.org/vaccines..

State of California Extends Current Shelter-in-Place Order Until Further Notice - issued January 9, 2020

Due to a severe decrease in ICU capacity across the Bay Area and other regions, the State of California has extended its current Shelter-in-Place Order for the region until further notice.  With current ICU capacity at just three-percent, and COVID cases on the rise, the State could not estimate how long the current Order will last.  

Residents are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible and continue to wear a mask whenever going out for essential business or outdoor exercise. 

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit www.dublin.ca.gov/coronavirus..

State of California Expected to Extend Current Shelter-in-Place Order - issued January 8, 2020

The State of California is expected to announce on Saturday, January 9, that the current regional Shelter-in-Place Order will remain in effect until the Bay Area Region meets or exceeds 15% ICU capacity.  Currently, the ICU capacity in our region is at 3.5% capacity.  Alameda County cannot act on its current Order until the State formally announces the status of our region.

The County also announced that the region is experiencing the greatest surge in COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic.  All residents are encouraged to remain at home, and to wear a mask whenever going out for essential needs.

Read the full press release from Alameda County Public Health Department.