Riverside County passed the 10,000-case mark of confirmed coronavirus cases, a milestone that prompted county health officials to remind residents of the importance of continuing safe health practices.
“The 10,000-case figure is a stark reminder that coronavirus is still active in the community and we need to continue the health practices that previously helped us flatten the curve,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of Riverside University Health System-Public Health.
Health officials said they expected an increase in cases as Riverside County expands the economy and opens areas for more public interaction. “We forecasted sporadic outbreaks through the summer, and those forecasts so far are coming true,” said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County health officer. “It’s time to think about what the fall will bring, and those initial estimates aren’t good. If we’re not observing social distancing and facial coverings, two things that helped before and are helping now, we’re going to lose the progress we’ve made.”
Testing continues to be an integral focus as more residents visit more businesses. County health officials urge residents of all ages to get tested, with or without symptoms, to identify where the disease is currently present in the community and where it is not.
For more information on testing locations and how to make an appointment, visit www.rivcoph.org/coronavirus/testing.
