FAQs • Merced County, CA • CivicEngage

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Administrative Services

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1. How do I find a particular department?: Check county website directory either by name or department.
County Departments

2. How do I get a plan holders list?: Contact Department of Public Works at (209)385-7602.

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Animal Services

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1. I live in the country, do I still have to license my dog?: Yes, dog licensing and rabies vaccinations are required by the California Health and Safety Code as well as County Ordinance. Dog licenses are required regardless of where you live.

2. How many dogs or cats can I have?: Each household may only have four (4) dogs or cats over the age of four months. If you have five (5) or more you are required to obtain a special permit. The number of animals vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local agency.

3. Why do I have to pay to leave my animal at the shelter?: State law requires that we hold the animal at least five (5) days to afford it a chance for the owner to reclaim the animal or have it adopted. The fee covers County costs.

4. My Neighbor's dog barks constantly. What should I do?: Contact our office and schedule an appointment with an Animal Control Officer. They will explain the complaint process and discuss options with you. Sometimes the problem can be resolved with a visit from us.

5. Can I call in a complaint and remain anonymous?: Anonymous complaints are handled as work load and time allows. We would much rather keep your information confidential and resolve the problem. Contact information is never shared with the animal owner. However, if the complaint results in a criminal complaint being filed you may be called to testify.

6. My dog bit someone. What should I do?: Contact you local Animal Control Agency right away. A report must be taken and the bite incident documented. It’s important to make sure your animal is confined and you have your most rabies vaccination certificate available. The investigating officer will request any additional information needed.

7. Why do I have to pay a license penalty when I never received a reminder?: Reminders are sent out to County dog owners as a courtesy. The owner is responsible for making sure all vaccinations and the license are kept current.

8. How long is my pets rabies shot good for?: Under normal circumstances the first rabies vaccination your pet is given remains current for one year. This is regardless of the animal’s age. The second vaccination will remain current for three years. If you have questions concerning your pet’s rabies vaccination status please consult with your veterinarian.

9. I've moved here from another State. Will I have to give my pet a new rabies shot?: Possibly - each State establishes their own rabies control programs, which include vaccination interval and specific vaccine use. Your local veterinarian can determine if the vaccine you pet was given was approved for California. An approved vaccine list is available from the California Department of Food & Agriculture Animal Health Division. Read more...

10. Why won't Animal Control Staff give me advice on animal health or vaccinations?: Although the animal control staff is very knowledgeable on animal health issues and vaccination protocols, we are not licensed veterinarians. The health of your pet is important; treatment based on a conversation without proper medical diagnosis can be dangerous. Only a Licensed Veterinarian working cooperatively with the owner can determine what is best for a pet.

11. My animal was picked up running loose. Why do I have to pay to get them out of the shelter?: When Animal is impounded by an agency, it is done so for the animal’s protection and public safety. With very few exceptions, the reason for the animal being in an Animal Control Facility is owner related. The owner bears a portion of the cost for the impounding, housing and medical treatment of their animal.

12. Why can't I tie up my dog?: Current state law allows a dog owner to tie their dog to a fixed object for up to 3 hours. The law also specifies that if a dog is tied for more than 3 hours, it must be on a cable runner to allow the animal free movement. There can be severe consequences and fine for not following the “Tethering Law”. If you have questions about how to properly confine your animal please contact us. Contact us

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Assessor

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1. How do I change my address?: Complete and sign an Address Change Form and fax to (209) 725-3956 mail to the Assessor's Office at:
2222 M St.
Merced, CA 95340
Address Change Form

2. How can I request a review?: Contact the Assessor's Office at (209) 385-7631.

3. What is the Williamson Act?: A 10-year perpetual contract to protect agricultural lands for continued agricultural production and open-space uses. In return, the owner receives a guaranteed 5% reduction for prime land and tree values, or a 5% reduction for non-prime land.

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Auditor - Controller

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1. How do I verify employment for a current County employee?: Call our office at (209) 385-7511 and ask for the Payroll Section. Please identify yourself and the company you are representing. Provide a social security number and name of the person about whom you are inquiring.
We can verbally verify information you already have, but cannot provide any new information.

2. How do I obtain answers to questions regarding my tax bill?: Contact our Property Tax Section at (209) 385-7511, and they will be glad to help you with whatever questions you may have.

3. How do I get copies of my W-2 if I worked for Merced County?

For W'2s prior to 2018:

Submit a written request by mail to:

Merced County Auditor-Controller’s Office
Payroll Section
2222 M St
Merced, CA 95340

Please include your name used as it was at the time the W-2 was originally issued, your social security number, the year of the W-2 that you are requesting, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Please sign this request.

You can also request a copy by phone. Please call (209) 385-7511 ext 4282 and provide the same information as stated above.

For W-2s from 2018 to current:

Please contact the department from which you terminated employment with the county. Provide them the same information as listed above.

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Behavioral Health and Recovery Services

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1. What type of children’s services do you provide?

We have many programs available to assist with a child’s behavior issues, including:

Substance abuse
Behavioral therapy
Family functional therapy
Teaching social skills

2. Do I need an appointment?: An appointment is necessary, unless you are in a crisis situation.

3. What is the success rate for change in a child?: The success rates vary, depending on the participation and follow-through from the parents or guardians of the youth being served.

4. What programs are available through the department?

RAFT: A multi-component alcohol and drug service program for youth ages 12-17. It includes a seven-week education and treatment program.

WeCan: A system of care for children with serious emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs, and for their families.

ReDirect: Enable parents to become more helpful by making clear the rights and responsibilities of both parents and children.

FFT: Motivation therapy, designed to change maladaptive emotional reactions and beliefs, and increase alliance, trust, hope, and motivation for lasting change.

PCIT: Supported treatment for conduct-disordered young children that places emphasis on improving the quality of the parent-child relationship.

SOS: A multidisciplinary team that helps family’s problem solve, and seek agency resources, which build family strengths and support.

HOPES: A multi-agency program created to educate and help children and families dealing with sexual abuse.

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Behavioral Health and Recovery Services - Public Administrator

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1. What is involved in the probate of an estate, and why does it take so long?

Probate is started when someone – the named executor, next–of–kin, or the Public Administrator – files a petition to open a probate proceeding with the Superior Court.

The Court will set a hearing on the petition and determine who should be appointed to administer the estate. Letters of Administration are issued by the Court and constitute legal authority for the appointed Personal Representative or Administrator to take over all aspects of the decedent's estate.

The Personal Representative or Administrator will arrange for the funeral, if not already arranged, and must marshal (collect for safekeeping) and evaluate (value as of the decedent's date of death) all assets, debts and other interests of the decedent. This information is summarized in an Inventory & Appraisal of the estate, which is filed with the Court and copied to all interested persons. Notices are mailed to family/heirs, creditors and other interested parties, and a hearing may be conducted to resolve any questions or concerns about the assets and debts of the estate.

The Personal Representative or Administrator evaluates claims against the estate, pays taxes and expenses as needed, sells assets as needed, determines who is entitled to the remaining estate, if any, and concludes all matters affecting the estate. The Personal Representative or Administrator will prepare a final accounting of all actions taken to settle the estate, and file it with the Court. A copy of the final accounting is mailed to all interested persons.

The Court will hold a hearing on the handling of the estate and review the final accounting. Once approved, the Personal Representative or Administrator is discharged and the probate proceeding is concluded.

2. Why does the Public Administrator administer estates?

The Public Administrator is a County official, established by State law. California became a State when gold was found at Sutter's Mill in 1848. After the office of Sheriff was established in 1850, to maintain law and order, and a very cold winter struck in 1850-51, many people died. To take protective possession of the property left behind by deceased miners and other transient residents from out of state, the office of the Public Administrator was established for each County in 1851.

The Public Administrator has the legal authority to take protective custody of property of a decedent, and to investigate the decedent's assets and obligations, family and other interested persons, and related information. The Public Administrator may open probate for the decedent's estate, or refer the estate to the appropriate person(s) for administration.

3. When is the estate handled by the Public Administrator?

The Public Administrator may be appointed under the following circumstances:

When no executor, personal representative or administrator has been appointed and the decedent's property is being wasted, uncared for, or lost;
When ordered by the Court;
When an heir nominates the Public Administrator, or the decedent's Will names the Public Administrator as Executor;
When there are no known heirs of the decedent's estate;
When an heir who resides outside of the State of California requests the Public Administrator;
When the named Executor fails to act and no other person has a preferred right.

4. How much are the fees of the Public Administrator?

The California Probate Code provides for statutory fees for executors, administrators and their attorneys. The Public Administrator and attorneys for the Public Administrator are entitled to the same compensation. Statutory fees are based on the value of the estate.

Statutory fees are as follows:

4% of the first $100,000
3% of the next $100,000
2% of the next $800,000
1% of all above $9,000,000
0.5% of the next $15,000,000
Above $25 million dollars, an amount determined by the Court

In addition to statutory fees the Court, upon request, will award extraordinary fees for such extra work as selling real and personal property, petitioning for determination of heirship, litigation to collect assets, and defending actions against the estate and other similar matters. All fees must be approved by the Probate Court, in the accounting.

5. What is the difference between a formal probate proceeding and a summary proceeding?

A formal probate proceeding is supervised by the Court and generally applies to estates with a date-of-death value exceeding $150,000.00.

Where the total value of the estate does not exceed $150,000.00, California law (Probate Code §7660) authorizes the Public Administrator to administer the estate with limited or no court supervision. Summary proceedings are only authorized for the Public Administrator and the law provides for a minimum fee ($1,000.00). A summary probate proceeding is considerably more economical and efficient than a formal probate proceeding.

6. Does the Public Administrator make a thorough investigation to discover all estate assets?: At the time of the original investigation, the Deputy Public Administrator looks for all leads which may indicate assets of the decedent. These leads are followed up in due course, and the assets collected and (usually) liquidated, during the administration of the estate. Unless someone has deliberately hidden assets, all assets are usually located before the close of the administration.

7. Will the Public Administrator make funeral arrangements?

A Deputy Public Administrator will work with the family to make the necessary funeral arrangements, either at the family's request or in the absence of family.

Arrangements will be made commensurate with any pre-need plans of the decedent or the ability of the estate to pay. All deceased persons will be afforded a dignified burial when possible.

8. Can I put in a claim for my expenses?: If you paid the debts of the decedent or incurred charges directly connected with the decedent's death or paid part of the funeral expenses, immediately notify the administrator. You may be a creditor of the estate. Creditors must file a Creditor's Claim with documents supporting the claim within four (4) months after the appointment of the estate's personal representative or administrator. Creditor Claim forms may be obtained from the Court, at any legal bookstore, from the California Judicial Council online, or by mail from the Public Administrator.

9. When will claims be paid?: Funeral expenses are a priority claim and are paid when sufficient estate funds are available. If a funeral director or mortuary is contacting family members or heirs for payment, they should be referred to the personal representative or administrator. The estate may reimburse reasonable funeral expenses.

10. What inheritance taxes or estate taxes will the estate have to pay?: Federal estate taxes will be paid from the estate at the rate and estate exclusion that apply to the year of death. There are no inheritance taxes in California.

11. Can you give me the exact financial status of the estate?: A complete accounting will be filed with the Court and provided to all interested parties prior to the final distribution of the estate. This Final Account is set for a hearing and interested parties are notified. Prior to the filing of the Final Account, indications regarding the value of the estate or an heir's share of the estate are estimates only.

12. Will I receive regular reports on the progress of the estate?: The primary function of the Public Administrator is to administer estates. Estate administration involves collecting assets, paying debts, locating heirs, creditors and other interested parties, as well as seeking instructions from and complying with Court orders. At the conclusion of the administration the Final Accounting is prepared and the residual estate, if any, is distributed. The Public Administrator also provides notice to creditors, heirs or legatees, and other interested parties, and responds to all requests for information regarding the progress of an estate's administration, as promptly as possible.

13. How long does it take to administer an estate?: The Public Administrator endeavors to complete investigations and petition for appointment as quickly as possible. The timeline for administration varies greatly depending on the complexity of the estate.

14. Why is estate property sold?

Personal property (furniture, jewelry, art, etc.) is sold to satisfy estate debts and costs of administration. Generally, most heirs desire a liquidation of the estate, to receive a cash distribution. The Public Administrator works with known heirs to determine the desired disposition of property, when there are sufficient proceeds to pay debts and costs. Some items may be distributed in-kind to heirs. The value of the items is then deducted from the receiving heir's share. Heirs may attend auctions and purchase any items from the estate.

Real property (house, vacant land, commercial property, oil & mineral rights), is also sold to satisfy estate debts and costs of administration. In the event the estate has sufficient cash to satisfy estate debts and costs and an heir desires to retain the real property, the heir should speak directly with the Public Administrator's staff to formalize an agreement.

All sales are governed by the California Probate Code. All probate assets are appraised by a Court appointed appraiser. All real property is sold at auction or by private sale after notice of sale and subject to confirmation by the Court.

15. When will the estate be distributed?: Estate distribution will occur upon completion and approval of the Final Account.

16. Will I receive a statement of all receipts and disbursements?: With formal probates, a copy of the Final Account will be mailed to the creditors, heirs or legatees, and other interested parties when filed for Court hearing and approval. For the Public Administrator's summary proceedings, a copy of the Final Account will be provided upon request.

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Behavioral Health and Recovery Services - Public Guardian / Conservator

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1. What is a Conservator?: A guardian or conservator is a person or organization that is appointed by the court to arrange for the personal care or finances, or both for someone who has been found by the court to be unable to do so (the conservatee).

2. What are the duties of a Conservator?

The court can appoint a conservator of the person only, the estate only, or both person and estate. It is the policy of the Public Conservator to serve as conservator of both the person and estate. The following is a brief summary of a conservator's duties.

Conservatorship of the person: the conservator arranges for the conservatee's care and protection, decides where the conservatee will live, makes arrangements for the conservatee's health care, meals, clothing, personal care, housekeeping, transportation, and recreation.
Conservatorship of the estate: the conservator manages the conservatee's finances. locates and takes control of the conservatee's assets, collects income due to the conservatee, makes a budget to show what the conservatee can afford, pays the conservatee's bills, invests the conservatee's money, and protects the conservatee's assets.

3. Are there different types of conservatorships?

There are several types of conservatorships. For each type a conservator can be appointed for the person, for the estate, or both. It is the policy of the Public Conservator to serve as conservator of both the person and estate.

Probate Conservatorships: These conservatorships are named for the laws found in the California Probate Code. Full Probate conservatorships are set up for adults who cannot handle their own finances or care for themselves; limited conservatorships are possible for adults with developmental disabilities who cannot fully care for themselves or their property.
Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Conservatorships: These conservatorships can be established to arrange placement and mental health treatment for persons who are gravely disabled, a legal criteria by which a person is unable to provide for their own food, clothing and shelter as a result of a mental disorder. LPS conservatorships must be renewed on an annual basis.
LPS Temporary Conservatorships (T-CON): Established by a designated mental health professional submitting a "Declaration in Support of Appointment of a Temporary Conservator." Temporary conservatorships are originally established for 30 days but can be extended by the court.

4. Who decides whether a person needs a conservator?: The Superior Court determines whether a conservatorship should be established. The court process includes petitioning the court, notifying the proposed conservatee and his or her family of proceedings, identifying the resources of the proposed conservatee and stating the reason a conservatorship is needed. The court will establish a conservatorship only if it is determined that the person requires it and that the petitioner can fulfill the responsibilities as a conservator.

5. Does the Public Conservator have the same responsibilities as other conservators?: Yes. A public conservator has all the same duties and responsibilities. The public conservator must answer to the court and obtain the same court approvals for decisions made on behalf of the conservatee.

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Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Problem Resolution - Appeals

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1. What should I expect after filing an appeal?: Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services staff will investigate your appeal and respond to you in writing. You will receive two letters. The first letter will be a notice that we have received your appeal. The State Department of Health Care Services requires that this letter be sent to you within one working day of receipt. The second letter will be sent to you with the results of the investigation. The investigation of your appeal must be responded to within 45 days of receipt.

2. What is the difference between a standard appeal and an expedited appeal?: An expedited appeal must be resolved and notification must be given to the person filing an Appeal in three days after we receive it. An expedited appeal does not have to be in writing. An appeal is considered an expedited appeal when using the standard appeal criteria could jeopardize the consumer’s life, health, or ability to attain, maintain, or regain maximum function. Behavioral Health and Recovery Services staff will determine whether or not your appeal will be considered standard or expedited.

3. What if I do not agree with the results of the investigation?: You have the right to file for a State Fair Hearing before, during, or after the resolution of your appeal. If you do not know how to file for a State Fair Hearing you can contact the Quality Improvement staff at (209) 381-6800 or your Patients' Rights Advocate at (209) 381-6876.

4. What are my rights regarding access to my appeals file?: It is your right to have access to your case file, including medical records, and any other documents and records considered during the appeals process.

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Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Problem Resolution - Grievances

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1. What should I expect after filing a grievance?: Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services will investigate your grievance in hopes to resolve your dissatisfaction. Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services has to respond to you in writing. You will receive two letters. The first letter will be a notice that we have received your grievance. Behavioral Health and Recovery Services requires that this letter be sent to you within one working day of receipt. The second letter will be sent to you with the results of the investigation. The investigation of your Grievance will be responded to within 60 days of receipt.

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Board of Supervisors

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1. When are Board agendas made available to the public?: The County prepares and distributes Board meeting agendas in compliance with the Brown Act. Agendas are available online and are available at the Board of Supervisors Office. http://www.co.merced.ca.us/BoardAgenda/

2. Where are the Board meetings held?: The Board of Supervisors meets in the Board Chambers located on the third floor of the County’s Main Administration Building at 2222 M St. in Merced.

3. Who is my Supervisor?: The County has five supervisorial districts. View the Supervisorial District Information to determine which supervisorial district you live in.

4. How are Board members compensated?: Adopted in 2007, Ordinance 1825 established the salary for members of the Merced County Board of Supervisors. Wages for Board members are set at 54.2 percent of Merced County Superior Court Judges’ salaries (Merced County is a subdivision of the State). The Chair of the Board receives an additional $400 a month for the increased workload associated with the position. Ordinance 1825 keeps Board member salaries in line with neighboring counties while removing the need for the Board to vote on its own salary increases when the cost of living goes up. Board members do not receive additional expense allowances.

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Child Support Services

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1. How can I pay my child support?

If you have an open case with a local child support agency and do not pay through wage withholding, you have several options:

Pay by check. mail your payment to: California State Disbursement Unit P.O. Box 989067 West Sacramento, CA 95798
Make a single automatic withdrawal from your checking or savings account at Payment Options | CA Child Support Services or by telephone at (866) 901-3212
Set-up ongoing (recurring) automatic withdrawals from your checking or savings account or credit card at Payment Options | CA Child Support Services

2. Where can I find information on emancipation?: Child support generally continues until the minor child emancipates or until otherwise noted in the child support order. Under California law, a parent’s obligation to pay support continues until the child becomes 18 years old. However, the current support obligation may continue until the child is 19, if the child is unmarried and attending high school full-time. A court may order current child support to continue after the child emancipates because of special circumstances.

If there are arrears (past due support) owed on the child support case, the local child support agency may continue to enforce collection of the arrears until the case is paid in full, including any interest that may have built up.

3. My children and I are receiving CalWORKs benefits, but I did not apply for your services. Why was a case opened?

State and Federal law require recipients of CalWORKs benefits to participate in the Child Support Program.

The CalWORKs office must send us a referral to open a case to establish paternity, child support and health insurance for the children receiving the benefits.

When you are approved for these benefits, your rights to child support are assigned to the county for the time period you and the children receive aid. The child support collected while your family receives aid is used to reimburse the money paid to your family by the county, pursuant to State and Federal Law.

4. Does the father's name on the Birth Certificate establish paternity?: The Birth Certificate does not establish paternity. It is only an acknowledgement. If a parent was to die, the Birth Certificate does not guarantee benefits will be awarded.

5. How can I get custody or visitation?: Our office does not offer these services. The Family Law Facilitator is provided as a free service to provide legal information and assistance to people representing themselves in a Family Law matter. For more information, view Family Law for the Superior Court of California.

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Commerce, Aviation, and Economic Development

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1. Where can I obtain a Merced County business license?: Merced County business licenses can be obtained through the Merced County Department of Commerce, Aviation, and Economic Development located at 2222 M St. in Merced. For directions, please call (209) 385-7686.

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County Clerk

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1. Where do we get a copy of divorce papers?: Contact the Superior Court Clerk at (209) 725-4100.

2. Can I search fictitious name records online?: Yes, online service are available for FBN filing and searches. For more information, please call (209) 385-7627.
Please visit our online services

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County Counsel

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1. Can you help me with my legal problem?: County Counsel is the attorney that advises the Board of Supervisors and various county departments. County Counsel cannot give legal advice or answer legal questions for the public.

2. Where can I get legal forms?: The Judicial Council has forms available to the public at no charge. Merced Superior Court also has free forms available.

3. Where can I find the Legal Services for Seniors program?: Legal Services for Seniors is administered by Central California Legal Services: (209) 723-5466.

4. I can’t afford a lawyer. Can you help?: The California Court System has a self-help center that provides information for individuals who are looking for information or, in some cases representing themselves. The State Bar of California also has resources for low-income people in need of legal help.

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County Executive Office

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1. What is the role of the County Executive Officer?

The role and function of the Executive Officer is to:

Implement Board policy, complete policy studies, and formulate recommendations to the Board
Serve as a primary informational link between the Board and residents of Merced County, as well as other governmental entities
To be accountable for the effective administration and management of all governmental affairs of the County
To negotiate, or supervise negotiation and performance of contracts, leases, and agreements
To assist the Board in the development of the County goals and program priorities, assign responsibility for implementation, provide regular evaluation of progress, and recommend corrective action when necessary
To inform the Board of matters which come to the county executive officer’s attention which may be pertinent to the discharge of the board’s responsibilities
To perform such other services and responsibilities as the Board may require

2. Who is the County Executive Officer?: Raul Lomeli Mendez is the County Executive Officer.

3. Where can I get a copy of the County Budget?: The County Budget is available online.
County Budget

4. Where can I get a copy of the County's Legislative Platform?: The County's Legislative Platform, which is passed by the Board of Supervisors each year, is available online.
County Legislative Platform

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COVID-19 - Stay-at-Home Order

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1. What does this Order do?

This Order repeals and replaces all previous Stay at Home orders issued by the Health Officer of Merced County, except for the Febrile Respiratory Illness Order issued on April 7, 2020, and incorporates by reference the directive from the California State Public Health Officer designating "Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers." For more information on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers, see https://www.covid19.ca.gov/essential-workforce. This Order does not supersede any conflicting or more restrictive orders issued by local governments, the State of California, or the Federal Government.

This Order continues to advise all individuals living in the county to continue to stay at home or at their place of residence except to provide or receive certain essential services or engage in certain essential activities and work for essential businesses and governmental services or to take part in certain outdoor activities; directing specified businesses to continue to cease certain non-essential operations at physical locations in the county; prohibiting all large non-essential gatherings of individuals; and advising cessation of all non-essential travel.

2. When does the Order go into effect?: The first Stay-At-Home Order went into effect on March 20th, 2020. This updated Order supersedes the April 24th, 2020 Order and went into effect on May 8th, 2020.

3. How long does the Order last?: The Order is currently set to last until it is rescinded, superseded or amended in writing by the Health Officer.

4. Can the Order be changed?: Yes. In the event that the Health Officer determines that hospitalizations, or other factors, indicate an increased transmission of COVID-19 or stresses on critical healthcare infrastructure, the Health Officer may issue an addendum to this order requiring additional prevention measures, such as face coverings, or closure of certain higher risk activities and businesses, including, but not limited to indoor dining at food facilities (as allowed to reopen by the Governor’s Orders and/or any State variances granted to the County), salons and barbershops (as allowed to reopen by the Governor’s Orders and/or any State variances granted to the County), and gyms (as allowed to reopen by the Governor’s Orders and/or any State variances granted to the County).

5. Where is the Order in effect?: This Order is in effect across all of Merced County, including incorporated and unincorporated areas.

6. Who issued the Order?: This Order was issued by the Merced County Public Health Officer after conferring with Health officials. The Health Officer has the authority under state law to issue Orders to protect the health and welfare of everyone in their jurisdictions.

7. What happens if I don’t comply with this Order?: Failure to comply with the Order is a misdemeanor punishable by fine, county jail sentencing, or both.

8. Why is this Order in place?

This Order is in place to address the ongoing spread of the virus that causes COVID19 in Merced County. There is substantial community transmission of the virus, which is easily spread between people. One big challenge in controlling the transmission of the virus is that many people who have it don’t have symptoms or have mild symptoms. However; people can easily spread the virus even if they don’t feel ill. The virus can also last on many surfaces (from hours to days).

Unfortunately, this virus can cause severe symptoms in some people and can also be fatal. Some who get the virus, especially those over 60 years old, those who have weak immune systems, and those with various medical conditions (see below for a full list), can end up with serious complications that include fever, pneumonia, and in some instances death. Currently there is no approved treatment or cure for COVID19. That means that people who get very sick need medical intervention such as oxygen or help breathing.

Because the virus spreads so easily, without dramatic intervention like this Order, it would result in so many people needing medical attention in a hospital setting that our hospitals will be overwhelmed. We may not have enough beds or equipment to adequately care for the most seriously ill. Our health care workers and other first responders are also at risk, and if they get sick there are fewer people to provide health care and first response services.

For these reasons, it is critical that we now do everything in our power to slow down the spread of the virus. Doing so will help to “flatten the curve” to slow down the spread of the virus and help our health care system not be overwhelmed. If this succeeds, it means that there will be health care available for those who get sick with COVID-19 or who need emergency medical care for accidents, heart attacks, strokes, and other serious medical conditions. We all have to do our part now to protect everyone in the community. The best way to do that is to “socially isolate” yourself at home to avoid further spread of the virus.

9. What is the difference between “stay at home” and “social distancing”?

Staying at home is a more rigorous form of social distancing. For the purposes of this Order, “Social Distancing” includes:

Maintaining at least a six-foot distance from other individuals not from the same household.
Washing your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer.
Covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow).
Regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces.
Not shaking hands.

10. Can I leave home to visit friends or family members if there is no urgent need or I am not performing an essential activity (as defined under the Order)?: It is recommended that you only leave home to perform an essential activity, provide or receive certain essential services or engage in certain essential activities and work for essential businesses (as defined under the Order) to stop the spread of COVID-19.

11. Can I still get my mail and deliveries?: Yes. You will still be able to get mail and other deliveries at your home.

12. Can I still order the things I need online and have them delivered to my residence?: Yes. Businesses that deliver essential goods or services directly to residences may continue to operate.

13. Can I go out to do my laundry or have my laundry done?: Yes. Maintain social distancing while outside of your home.

14. Can I leave home to go to the pharmacy to get my prescription filled?: Yes. Drug stores and other medical supply stores are essential and will continue to operate under this Order. For your safety, whenever possible, you should have prescription medicines and healthcare supplies delivered to your home.

15. What if I need to get healthcare from my medical provider?: You can still get your health needs addressed. Contact your health care provider to see if they are providing regular services. Some services, especially elective procedures, may be postponed or canceled. If you are feeling sick, please first call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care center. Do not go to the emergency room of a hospital unless you are having an actual medical emergency.

16. Can I still seek not yet authorized to reopen medical care like eye exams, teeth cleaning, elective procedures, etc.?: Generally, you should postpone not yet authorized to reopen medical and dental care if possible. However, preventative medical appointments including dentistry are allowed. Contact your health care provider to see if they are providing regular services.

17. Should I stock up on essential items such as food, toilet paper, and medicines?: No. You will continue to be able to purchase essential items. Stores selling necessary items like grocery stores, pharmacies, and hardware stores will remain open. Please continue to buy normal quantities of these items on the same schedule you normally follow. This will ensure that there is enough for everyone.

18. What should I do if I’m sick? If I or a family member need immediate medical attention, can I leave home to go to the doctor or hospital?

Call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room if you are experiencing a medical emergency. Do not go to the emergency room of a hospital unless you have a medical emergency. If you or your family member are feeling sick and it’s not a medical emergency, you should seek medical advice. First call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care center before going to the hospital.

19. Can I leave home to care for my elderly parents or friends who require assistance to care for themselves? Or a friend or family member who has disabilities?: Yes. Be extremely cautious when providing care to vulnerable people and ensure that you protect them and yourself by following social distancing guidelines such as washing hands before and after, using hand sanitizer, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance when possible, and coughing or sneezing into a tissue.

20. Can I visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other residential care facility?: You may visit a hospital or other healthcare facility only for the purpose of obtaining health care services and supplies. Do not visit a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or residential care facility other than for the purpose of securing care. People over 60 years of age are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.

21. Can I leave home to attend services at my church, synagogue, mosque or place of worship?

Churches and faith-based organizations are responsible for ensuring compliance of individuals utilizing their facilities and participating in their services. Follow the Merced County website for the most up-to-date information at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

In-person Worship Services Allowed with Restrictions

Follow the State’s Places of Worship and Providers of Religious Services and Cultural Ceremonies Industry Guidance (viewable at the following link: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-places-of-worship.pdf.

*Places of worship must therefore limit attendance to 25% of building capacity or a maximum of 100 attendees, whichever is lower. This limitation will be in effect for the first 21-days of a county public health department’s approval of religious services and cultural ceremonies activities at places of worship within their jurisdictions. Upon 21-days, the California Department of Public Health, in consultation with county Departments of Public Health, will review and assess the impact of these imposed limits on public health and provide further direction as part of a phased-in restoration of activities in places of worship.

Drive-in Worship Services Allowed with Restrictions

Remote Access Worship Services Allowed with Restrictions

It is strongly recommended to assist individuals with the ability to stay at home whenever possible by offering remote worship services. Remote access to worship services is allowed through e-mail, video streaming, or teleconference.

Faith-based Counselling Allowed with Restrictions

Faith-based counselling can reopen within the following parameters:

1. Counselling services are permissible in-person where the service cannot reasonably be practiced remotely.

2. Counselling services should adopt State guidance on Limited Services, where applicable.

3. This designation does not permit gatherings beyond counselling to members of a single household.

Follow the State’s Limited Services Industry Guidance (viewable at the following link: https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-limited-services.pdf).

I operate a funeral home. Are funeral services allowed?

Yes, with restrictions. Gatherings are a significant contributor to the spread of COVID-19, requiring restrictions to allow for a balance between safety and beliefs, rituals, and traditions.

No more than 10 persons, including clergy and technical assistance, shall be present at any given time.

Family shall disclose to clergy if decedent is COVID-19 positive.

Follow the State’s Places of Worship and Providers of Religious Services and Cultural Ceremonies Industry Guidance (viewable at the following link: https://covid-19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-places-of-worship.pdf).

Are baptism services allowed?

Baptisms with as few persons in attendance as possible is preferred. Baptisms may be supplemented by remote access through video streaming with a physical presence of no more than of 10 persons in attendance, supplemented with video for viewing by more than 10 people if desired, and is considered the safest option by the Public Health Department, or in-person is allowed with no more than 10 people present.

No more than 10 persons including clergy and technical assistance shall be physically present for baptism services; no rotation of those 10 persons physically present is allowed.
Wherever possible, all baptismal fonts are to be drained to discourage parishioners from dipping their hands in the water. Use blessed water only from a single-use bottle of baptisms.
Use only new water for each person being baptized.
Participants from different households should avoid direct physical contact.
No ill persons shall be in attendance of baptism services.
All persons must wear a face covering, except that cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing per CDC guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick-diy-cloth-face-coverings.html, and maintain social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals.
Baptism services shall be no more than 30 minutes.

22. I operate a funeral home. Are funeral services allowed?

Funeral services or viewings are not allowed to take place off-site or in a private home.
While direct burial or direct cremation with no persons in attendance is preferred, funeral services may take place by remote access through video streaming, cemetery graveside, or cemetery drive-through with as few people present as possible.
No more than 10 persons including clergy and technical assistance shall be present for funeral services; no rotation of those 10 persons is allowed.
Family shall disclose to clergy if decedent is COVID-19 positive.
No ill persons shall be in attendance of funeral services or viewings.
All persons must wear a face covering, except that cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing per CDC guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-facecoverings.html, and maintain social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals.
Mortuary visitation or viewing shall be no more than 30 minutes.
Graveside visits shall be for no more than 15 minutes.

23. Can I host a memorial service or a traditional ceremony in my home and invite family and friends to attend?: All public and private gatherings of over 10 people are prohibited, except as otherwise stated herein or authorized by the Health Officer.

24. What if I can’t get out of the home? How can I get supplies and food?: Please contact friends, family, or others you know who can provide support. They are permitted to pick up any of your needs. You can also order food and other supplies, and have them delivered to your home. If you think you might be eligible for meals on wheels, call (209) 385-3105 to start the eligibility intake process.

25. Can I leave home to exercise?

Individuals may leave their residence to engage in outdoor activities, including but not limited to walking, hiking, biking, golfing, running or equestrian activities, provided the individuals, or households, wear face coverings, and comply with Social Distancing Requirements (in the Order).

To avoid spread of the virus, it is recommended that you do not invite friends or other family members to exercise with you if they do not live in the same household as you. Businesses such as fitness centers, exercise gyms will be authorized to reopen upon receiving further guidance from the Governor and/or a State variance granted to the County.

26. I feel anxious being home, can I go to a park? Can I travel to a County park or open space if I social distance?: Parks are permitted to reopen with limitations provided the individuals, or households, wear face coverings, and comply with Social Distancing Requirements (in the Order). Park picnic areas, playgrounds, and indoor facilities in parks must remain closed until authorized by the Governor’s Orders or authorized by a State variance granted to the County.

27. Are Parks open and can I visit them?: Yes, with restrictions. Park picnic areas, playgrounds, and indoor facilities in parks must remain closed until authorized by the Governor’s Orders or authorized by a State variance granted to the County. Individuals may utilize these outdoor spaces provided the individuals, or households, wear face coverings, and comply with Social Distancing Requirements (in the Order).

28. Can I take my kids to the playgrounds at the park?: No. Parks are permitted to reopen with limitations. Park picnic areas, playgrounds, and indoor facilities in parks must remain closed until authorized by the Governor’s Orders or authorized by a State variance granted to the County. Individuals may utilize these outdoor spaces provided the individuals, or households, wear face coverings, and comply with Social Distancing Requirements (in the Order).

29. Can I go shopping for things other than food/groceries?: Yes, but it is recommended that you minimize unnecessary trips and follow social distancing requirements (in the Order) to minimize your risk of exposure to COVID-19.

30. Can I go to a bar/nightclub/theater?: No. Businesses such as bars, nightclubs, theaters are closed and will be authorized to reopen upon receiving further guidance from the Governor and/or a State variance granted to the County.

31. Can golf courses remain open, if i social distance myself from others?

Golf courses may remain open if they follow the approved operational guidelines provided by the Merced County Department of Public Health. The approved operational guideline can be found at: https://www.co.merced.ca.us/DocumentCenter/ View/23832/Stay-at-Home-Order-5820?bidId=.

Note these guidelines are a compilation of many clubs’ best practices. These are the minimum requirements that must be enforced; Clubs are able to enforce policies that are more stringent if they feel they are necessary to ensure the health and safety of persons using their facilities.

32. Can I go to a restaurant, café, coffee or tea shop, ice cream shop, or other foodservice locations?: Yes, indoor dining at food facilities will be permitted as authorized by the Governor’s Orders and/or authorized by a State variance granted to the County.

33. I don’t cook, can I leave my home to purchase meals?: Restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and similar retailers remain open. You can purchase prepared foods at grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, and other such food retailers.

34. Can I walk my dog/pet?: Yes, you can walk your dog/pet. Follow social distancing requirements in this Order.

35. Can I take my pet to the vet, pet hospital, or groomer?: Yes. Please call first to determine if the facility has any restrictions in place. Animal care facilities that provide food, shelter, veterinary and/or routine care and other necessities of life for animals including dog grooming facilities, dog day care facilities, animal rescue facilities, and boarding facilities are considered essential.

36. How can I access free or reduced-price meals for myself or my family?: Schools, soup kitchens, food banks, and other entities that provide free or reduced priced food or meals to the public are encouraged to continue providing these services.

37. Can I carry out a court-ordered visit with my kids?: Yes.

38. Will all business offices and stores be required to close?: No. All businesses and organizations in the County should refer to Appendix A of the May 8th, 2020 Order for guidance as to whether the business or organization may remain open or reopen. Appendix A is intended to be consistent with the Governor’s Orders, the directive from the California State Public Health Officer designating "Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers" and/or any State variances granted to the County. You can find Appendix A of the Order here: https://www.co.merced.ca.us/ DocumentCenter/View/23832/Stay-at-Home-Order-5820?bidId=

39. What are “Essential Businesses” required to do to operate?

All business and organizations authorized to remain open, or which are allowed to reopen, shall comply with the following requirements:

Limit the number of people who can enter into the facility/job site at any one time to ensure that people in the facility/job site can easily maintain a minimum six-foot distance from one another at all times, except as required to complete business activities; and
Strongly encourage employees to wear face coverings or use other protective barriers (e.g., Plexiglas, cubicles) where six feet of distance is not easily maintained between employees, or between employees and the public; and
Where lines may form at a facility/job site, mark six-foot increments at a minimum, to establish where individuals should stand to maintain adequate social distancing; and
Provide hand sanitizer, proper hand-washing stations with soap and water, or approved disinfectant at or near the entrance of the facility/job site and other appropriate areas for use by the public and employees, and in locations where there is high-frequency employee interaction with members of the public (e.g. cashiers); and
Provide for contact-less payment systems or, if not feasible to do so, provide disinfectant for all payment portals, pens, and styluses after each use; and
Regularly disinfect all high-touch surfaces and equipment; and
Post a sign at the entrance of the facility/job site informing all employees and customers of the requirements set forth in the Febrile Respiratory Illness Order issued on April 7, 2020; and
Assign a safety officer to ensure compliance with Health Officer Orders, State Guidance, OSHA regulations, and Reopening Guidelines, as applicable; and
To the extent a business or organization otherwise provides for employee and the public’s safety within the requirements prescribed by the Governor at https://covid19.ca.gov/roadmap/, such provisions shall satisfy the requirements of this section.

40. I run an essential business, as defined by the Order. Do I need to get an official letter of authorization from the County to operate?: No. If your business is on the list of essential businesses (Appendix A), then you may open and operate your business according to the guidelines provided in the Order. You do not need to obtain any specific authorization from the County to operate.

41. I work for an eligible business, as defined by the Order. Do I need to have a letter from my employer or other documentation to travel?: No. You do not need to carry official documentation demonstrating that you are exempt under the Order. Be prepared to explain if requested by law enforcement why your travel is authorized under the Order.

42. I operate a farm, am I allowed to continue my operation and have employees report to work?: Yes, cultivation, processing and production of agriculture and farming is considered an Essential Business.

43. What if my business is not yet authorized to reopen? Does this Order require that I close my business facility?

All businesses and organizations not authorized to open or reopen shall cease activities and shall close their facilities, except for basic minimum operations such as activities to maintain value of the business’s inventory, ensure security, process payroll and employee benefits, or related functions.

For clarity, businesses may also continue operations to the extent employees or contractors can perform work from home or place of residence. For additional information, please visit the Reopen Merced County website https://reopenmercedcounty.com/

44. I currently receive benefits through Merced County’s Human Services Agency. Will this order interrupt my benefits?: No, the Human Services Agency is considered an Essential Governmental Function and will continue to operate. Contact the office directly if you have questions regarding operational services/hours.

45. Does this Order require that schools shut down?: This Order requires that all schools stop holding classes at physical locations within the County. However, schools may provide distance learning to their students. Employees of schools may go to work for the purpose of providing distance learning to their students. Schools can also continue to offer students free and reduced-price lunches for takeaway or delivery, which many schools are doing in Merced County.

46. Will this order prevent companies working on vaccines and testing for COVID-19 from continuing to do that work?: No. The Order exempts any business that is performing work related to the delivery of health care.

47. I am in the business of manufacturing food that I supply to grocery stores and other food retailers. Am I required to close?: No. All suppliers of essential businesses are allowed (and encouraged) to continue operations. This includes businesses that supply food goods and prepared meals to grocery stores and other food retailers.

48. Does the Order require that businesses stop work that is necessary to our health care system?: No. The Order exempts any business that is performing work related to the delivery of health care.

49. Can my company continue construction on a health care facility?: Yes, the Order exempts any business that is performing work related to the delivery of health care.

50. What other construction is allowed to continue?: Construction workers who support the construction, operation, inspection, and maintenance of construction sites and construction projects (including residential, commercial, and mixed-use construction), and workers who support the supply chain of building materials from production through application/installation, including cabinetry, fixtures, doors, cement, hardware, etc. may continue work.

51. My business principally manufactures, supplies, or repairs cell phones. Can it continue to operate?: Yes. If your business is primarily engaged in supply or repair of cell phones or other telecommunications devices, then it is essential and may continue to operate under the Order.

52. Are non-profit organizations allowed to continue operating?: If the organization is considered an essential business as described in the Order, then yes, they can and should continue providing those services. This would include non-profits operating food pantries, providing housing for homeless residents, and providing other critical services.

53. What if some of the work my business does at its facility is essential and some is not yet authorized to reopen?: Your business can continue to operate its facility to carry out its essential business functions. You must maximize remote work and comply with social distancing requirements at the facility. The facility cannot continue to carry out business functions not yet authorized to reopen.

54. I operate a “big box store” that sells some clothing in addition to groceries, electronics, and hardware. Do I close off the part of my store that is not yet authorized to reopen?: No. You may keep your entire store open if it primarily sells essential goods and supplies like food, medicines, and telecommunication supplies.

55. What if I have a cafeteria at my worksite. Can it continue to operate to serve workers who are carrying out work exempted in the Order?: The Cafeteria can operate like other food facilities. Cafeteria shall follow State restaurant In-dinning Guidelines. The cafeteria should follow the social distancing requirements in the Order.

56. Is the local government shutting down?: No, essential government functions will continue, including first responders, emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, and law enforcement. Other government functions or offices may be subject to reduced schedules or may be closed as part of the effort to fight the spread of COVID-19.

57. I work for the government, Can I continue to go to work?: Government employees can continue to go to work if they are designated as essential employees by their employer. Each government entity is responsible for determining which of its workers are essential workers.

58. What do I do if my employer requires me to go to work?: Many businesses are not permitted to operate under this Order. Essential or authorized businesses, as defined in the Order, are allowed (and encouraged) to continue operating. If you work at a business that is not yet authorized to reopen, you are not permitted to go to work and your employer is not permitted to require you to attend except to sustain minimum basic operations, as that term is defined in the Order. You may work from home if your employer permits.

59. I work in a hospital or medical clinic, but I’m not sure I’m essential. Should I continue to work? What if I’m over 60?: ALL employees of hospitals, clinics, and other organizations that provide healthcare, provide services to healthcare organizations, provide needed supplies to healthcare organizations, or otherwise maintain healthcare operations of all kinds may continue working. Both the County’s Order and the Governor’s recent guidance allows essential workers over 60 to continue working, even though others in that age group are being directed to stay home.

60. What do I do about my kids? I have to work.: If you work for an essential or authorized business, as described in the Order, you can and should continue to work. Certain employers, schools, and community organizations will be providing childcare for employees of essential businesses. You may also employ a nanny or babysitter to provide home-based care for your kids.

61. Can bike repair shops continue to operate?: Yes, bike repair shops are treated as an essential business (the same as auto repair shops) because they are necessary to facilitate essential travel.

62. Can my company continue to provide janitorial services?: Yes, janitorial services are allowed as necessary to health and sanitation.

63. Can grocery stores, farmers markets, and other food retailers remain open?

Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and other establishments engaged in the retail sale of food, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, and any other household consumer products (such as cleaning and personal care products) may operate. This includes stores that sell groceries and also sell other non-grocery products, and products necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.

64. If my child’s school is providing food or meals, can I leave home to go to the school to pick up the food or meals?: Yes, you are allowed to pick up the food or meals and return home to eat the food or meals.

65. Can warehouses and distribution centers that supply businesses that ship and deliver stay open?: Yes.

66. I work for an essential infrastructure organization, can I leave home to go to work?: Yes. You can go to work to maintain and operate essential infrastructure, including public works construction, commercial and residential construction, airport operations, water, sewer, gas, electrical, oil refining, roads and highways, public transportation, solid waste collection and removal, internet, and telecommunications systems (including the provision of essential global, national, and local infrastructure for computing services, business infrastructure, communications, and web-based services).

67. What if I want to go to work at a physical location in the County and I’m not sick?: Unless your work is exempted in the Order, you cannot go to work at a physical location in the County. You may work from home for any business if your employer allows it.

68. Can I operate a business that sells things that can be delivered to people's homes? Can I shift more of my business to a delivery model?: Deliveries can continue to be sent to people’s home, and you may adjust your business model accordingly while this Order is in place.

69. My business provides critical services and products for the federal government that we are required to provide on a time-certain basis- can we continue to manufacture these products?: Employees and contractors of any governmental entity may continue to provide the services and products if the governmental entity determines that they are necessary to carry out an essential governmental function.

70. I work in a cemetery - can I go to work?: Yes, cemeteries are essential infrastructure.

71. Are daycare facilities allowed to operate?

Childcare facilities providing services, that enable employees exempted in this Order to work as permitted, may continue to operate. To the extent possible, childcare facilities must operate under the following mandatory conditions:

Childcare must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer ("stable" means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same group each day).
Children shall not change from one group to another.
If more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each group shall be in a separate room. Groups shall not mix with each other.
Childcare providers shall remain solely with one group of children.

72. Can home service workers who clean homes continue to provide their services?: Home service workers may provide their services if necessary for health and sanitation.

73. I am a nanny. Will I get in trouble if I go to work?: The Order permits nannies and babysitters caring for a child in the child’s own home to continue working.

74. Can I get a ride in my favorite ride share/on demand service or a taxi?: Yes. Keep in mind that being in close quarters in a vehicle that has been shared with many others should be avoided if possible.

75. Can I take public transport (bus, subway, train)?: Yes. When using public transport, you should maintain at least 6 feet distance from one another (2 or 3 steps away), including if you are on the bus or on trains.

76. Am I allowed to leave the areas covered by this Order to travel to/from a job outside the Bay Area? Does the Order allow me to leave the County?: Yes. Consider reducing travel when possible because it does increase risk to you and others in the community.

77. I am currently on vacation outside the County—does the Order allow me to return home?: Yes. The order permits you to travel to return home.

78. If I’m outside the County travelling for business-does this Order allow me to return home?: Yes. The Order permits you to travel to return home.

79. I’m visiting and staying in a hotel, with family/friends, or in a short-term rental. What should I do? Can I go home?: Yes, you can leave the County for the purpose of returning home.

80. What if I’m in a line and there isn’t six feet between me and others?: You should still try to maintain at least six feet between you and others. When that isn’t possible for short periods, do your best to keep the duration short. And be sure when in line you don’t sneeze or cough onto people. If needed, cough or sneeze into your shirt or into an elbow with clothing on, not into your hand.

81. What if my plumbing gets stopped up or there is another problem with necessary equipment at my home? How will I access those sorts of services?: Call your plumber or building manager. This Order allows service providers like plumbers, electricians, and exterminators to keep working and providing their services to the public. To obtain supplies for a DIY solution, you can also visit your hardware store, which is allowed to stay open under this Order.

82. What do I do about my loved one who needs care from me?: You are permitted to provide care or to help out with getting supplies for loved ones, even if they do not live in your household. But do not provide care or pick up supplies if you are sick and someone else can help them. If you are sick, please try to self-isolate or take other steps not to expose anyone else to your illness.

83. What are the guidelines for staying at home under the Health Officers latest Health Order dated May 8th, 2020?

Currently the FAQ section providing public guidance for staying at home under the May 8th, 2020 Health Order are being updated to this web page. Guidance for individuals, businesses, and organizations will be made available as soon as this process is complete.

The latest Order repeals and replaces all previous Stay at Home orders issued by the Health Officer of Merced County, except for the Febrile Respiratory Illness Order issued on April 7, 2020, and incorporates by reference the directive from the California State Public Health Officer designating "Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers." For more information on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers, see https://www.covid19.ca.gov/essential-workforce. This Order does not supersede any conflicting or more restrictive orders issued by local governments, the State of California, or the Federal Government.

84. Are baptism services allowed?

Yes, with restrictions. Gatherings are a significant contributor to the spread of COVID-19, requiring restrictions to allow for a balance between safety and beliefs, rituals, and traditions. If the following guidelines cannot be followed, visitors will not be allowed. Baptisms with as few persons in attendance as possible is preferred. Baptisms may be supplemented by remote access through video streaming with a physical presence of no more than of 10 persons in attendance, supplemented with video for viewing by more than 10 people if desired, and is considered the safest option by the Public Health Department, or in-person is allowed with no more than 10 people present.

No more than 10 persons including clergy and technical assistance shall be physically present for baptism services; no rotation of those 10 persons physically present is allowed.
Wherever possible, all baptismal fonts are to be drained to discourage parishioners from dipping their hands in the water. Use blessed water only from a single-use bottle for baptisms.
Use only new water for each person being baptized.
Participants from different households should avoid direct physical contact.
No ill persons shall be in attendance of baptism services.
All persons must wear a face covering, except that cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing per CDC guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html, and maintain social distancing of 6 feet from other individuals.
Baptism services shall be no more than 30 minutes.

85. What businesses are authorized to open under stage 2.5?

Essential Businesses (Stage 1)
Dine-In Restaurants
In-Person Retail Stores and Manufacturing
In-Person Offices (teleworking encouraged)
Pet Grooming, Car Washes
Hair Salons and Barbershops
Outdoor Museums, Open Gallery Spaces
Religious Services
Childcare Facilities (Open after May 27)
Malls and Swap Meets (Open after June 3)

86. What are the specific guidelines that businesses must follow in order to reduce the risk of COVID-19?

Perform a detailed risk assessment and implement a site-specific protection plan
Train employees on how to limit the spread of COVID-19, including how to screen themselves for symptoms and stay home if they have them
Implement individual control measures and screenings
Implement disinfecting protocols
Implement physical distancing guidelines

Review the industry specific guidance that is relevant to your business, prepare a plan based on the guidance for your industry, and put it into action.

When complete, you can post the industry-specific checklist in your business work-place. Further instructions for businesses is available at www.reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines or https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/.

Hair Salons and Barbershops

Services for these operations must be limited to services that can be provided with both the worker and customer wearing face coverings for the entirety of the service. For example, haircuts, weaves and extensions, braiding, lock maintenance, wig maintenance, hair relaxing treatments, and color services can be provided.

Services that cannot be performed with face coverings on both the worker and customer or that require touching the customer’s face, e.g., eyelash services, eyebrow waxing and threading, facials, etc., should be suspended until those types of services are allowed to resume.

Hair salon or barbershop owners or operators must acknowledge that lessees should only resume operations when they are ready and able to implement the necessary safety measures to provide for their safety and that of their customers.

Review the industry specific guidance that is relevant to your business, prepare a plan based on the guidance for your industry, and put it into action. When complete, you can post the industry-specific checklist in your work-place. Further instructions for businesses is available at www.reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines or https://covid-19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-hair-salons.pdf

Retail

Retailers, shopping malls, and libraries can re-open, along with the manufacturing and logistics sectors that support retail. Interior stores in shopping malls can do curbside pickup with modifications. Drive-in movie theaters can re-open with additional considerations. Retail does not include personal services such as beauty salons, but does include the sale of goods such as:

Bookstores
Jewelry stores
Toy stores
Clothing and shoe stores
Home and furnishing stores
Sporting goods stores
Florists

Review the guidance, prepare a plan, and post the checklist for retail in your workplace to show customers and employees that you’ve reduced the risk and are open for business. Further instructions for businesses is available at www.reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines or https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-retail.pdf

87. Child Care Facilities

Child Care facilities should:

Follow procedures daily for self-screening for all staff, residing family members in a FCCH, and children. This should include taking temperatures before arriving to work or beginning care.
Train staff about the new screening procedures and notify caregivers. Ask caregivers to screen themselves and children daily, prior to coming to your facility. Caregiver must also notify you if children have taken any fever reducing medications in the prior 24 hours.
If anyone has a temperature of 100.4°F/38°C or higher they must be excluded from the facility.
It is recommended as a best practice to take children’s temperature each morning only if the facility uses a no-touch thermometer. The no touch thermometer needs to be wiped with an alcohol wipe after each use.
If the facility uses a thermometer requiring a touch-method (under the tongue or arm, forehead, etc.), it should only be used when a fever is suspected.
Thermometers must be properly cleaned and disinfected after each use. (Information regarding best practices for thermometers can be found within the CDC document at this link.)
Monitor staff and children throughout the day for any signs of possible illness.
If staff or a child exhibit signs of illness, follow the facility procedures for isolation from the general room population and notify the caregiver immediately to pick up the child.
Implement and enforce strict hand washing guidelines for all staff and children.
Post signs in restrooms and near sinks that convey proper hand washing techniques.

For further instructions visit the Guidance for Childcare industries at https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/CCLD/PINs/2020/CCP/PIN_20-06-CCP.pdf or https://reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines/

88. Child Care Centers

All child care centers should adhere to the following: child ratios and group size outlines below for prevention, containment, and mitigation measures.

Age Staff:Child Ratio Group Size

0-18 months (infant) 1:4 10

18-36 months (toddler) 1:6 10

3 years-kindergarten entry 1:10 10

(preschool) & kindergarten entry

0 to school age (mixed age groups) 1:6 10

Follow the group sizes in the chart, unless more restrictive group sizes are required by federal, state or local authorities. The group sizes do not include the teacher. When mixed ages are present and include an infant under 18 months, adherence to the ratio 1:6 must be followed to allow for responsive care giving. If all children being cared for are infants, adherence to the 1:4 ratio must be followed within a group size, with no group no larger than 10.

Family Child Care Homes (FCCH)

Small and large family child care homes serve a total capacity of no more than 14 and group size may not exceed 10 children, unless more restrictive group sizes are required by state, federal or local authorities. (Over ten children will require an additional staff or assistant to maintain group sizes of ten or fewer children).

If there are more than 10 children in care, then the children need to be divided into two groups and kept separate from the other group of children each day, to the greatest extent possible. It is important to keep the same children and teacher or staff with each group and include children from the same family within the same group, whenever possible.

Required ratios for infants in a Family Child Care Home (FCCH)

Infants 0-18 months Provider: Infant Ratio Group Size

Infants only 1:4 Infant 4

No more than two infants 1:6 (2 infant + children) 6

when 6 children are present

For further instructions visit the Guidance for Childcare industries at https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/CCLD/PINs/2020/CCP/PIN_20-06-CCP.pdf or https://reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines/

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COVID-19 - Symptoms and Exposure

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1. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported - ranging from people with mild symptoms to people becoming severely ill, requiring admission to the hospital, and dying.
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure*, which include:

Cough
Shortness of Breath or Difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

Fever
Chills
Repeated shaking with chills
Muscle pain
Headache
Sore throat
New loss of taste or smell

Read about COVID-19 Symptoms from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
*This is based on what has been seen previously as the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses.

2. How does the virus spread?

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are no sure how or where they became infected.

Like other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza, human coronaviruses most commonly spread to others from an infected person who has symptoms through:

Droplets produced through coughing and sneezing.
Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person.
Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.

Do not assume that someone of a race or nationality is likely to have COVID-19; this virus has infected people of many different races and nationalities across the entire world.

Learn what is known about the spread of newly emerged coronaviruses.

3. Can Someone who has had COVID-19 spread the illness to others?

The virus that cases COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

How long someone is actively sick can vary so the decision on when to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis in consultation with doctors, infection prevention and control experts, and public health officials and involves considering specifics of each situation including disease severity, illness signs and symptoms, and results of laboratory testing for that patient.

Current CDC guidance for when it is OK to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis and includes meeting all of the following requirements:

The patient is free from fever without the use of fever reducing medications.
The patient is no longer showing symptoms, including cough.
The patient has tested negative on at least two consecutive respiratory collected at least 24 hours apart.

Someone who has been released from isolation is not considered to pose a risk of infection to others.

4. What is community spread?: Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

5. What can be done to slow the spread of COVID-19 infection?: Merced County follows guidance that has been provided by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the County strongly recommends that everyone practice social distancing of six (6) feet between persons for smaller gatherings, at this time. Please see the CDPH guidance document regarding gatherings at the following link for details: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

6. How can I help protect myself?

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Visit the CDC website COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment, to learn more about how to protect yourself.

7. Should I be tested for COVID-19?: If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immuno-compromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild. If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pair or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips of face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately. Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.

8. How is the County handling the testing process?: Testing is being offered at various locations in Merced County. Testing will be scheduled by appointment only and walk-ins will not be accepted. Testing priority will be given based on severity of symptoms, vulnerable and high-risk populations, and exposure history from contact or travel.

9. As a result of Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent announcement to add more than 80 community testing sites across the state, will Merced County add a new testing site?

Merced County has COVID-19 Testing Available to all Merced County residents. On Monday, May 5th, 2020 an additional COVID-19 testing site will open to all Merced County residents who would like to be tested. PLEASE NOTE: Due to expected high demand, testing availability was changed to by appointment only in order to prevent unnecessarily long wait times for clients. Walk-ins will not be accepted at this time.

Registration is available online or by phone:

www.lhi.care/covidtesting
1-888-634-1123

The site does not include antibody testing at this time. Appointments at the testing site will be scheduled Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Merced County Fairgrounds located at 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Merced.

10. I have symptoms, but my Medical Provider won’t recommend testing. What should I do?: If you have symptoms consist with COVID-19, call your medical provider to guidance on the steps that should be taken. Also, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html to find out more information about how to address symptoms. Due to the limited of supply of COVID-19 tests, tests will be prioritized for hospitalized patients and vulnerable residence. The medical provider will determine if a patient meets the criteria for testing. Merced County Public Health does not provide COVID-19 testing and this will only be done by a medical provider.

11. Who do I call to receive test results for myself or a patient?: You or the patient will be contacted by their medical provider or by the provider that issued the prescription or referral for the test. Be advised that test results make take up to 5-10 days.

12. I do not have symptoms but would like to test to check for immunity. Is there an antibody (convalescent plasma) test available?: People who have fully recovered from the COVID-19 infection you may have antibodies in your plasma that can attack the virus. Please visits www.covidplasma.org or fill out the Donor Eligibility Form from www.redcrossblood.org and a Red Cross representative will follow-up with regarding your eligibility.

13. I was informed by my doctor/employer/dentist/etc... that I was exposed to COVID-19 and to self-quarantine and get tested. However, my doctor did not provide me with a test because they are limited.: Exposure to COVID-19 does not mean that you will be infected by the virus. You should take the necessary precautions and self-isolate at home, monitor yourself and seek medical attention from your provider by phone if you develop COVID-19 symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath) to receive additional instruction regarding testing.

14. Where can I register for an appointment?

Testing will be available by appointment only to avoid long wait times. You can register online at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or for residents without internet access by calling: (888) 634-1123. Testing Site will be open Mondays – Fridays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

15. Do I need a prescription from my medical provider to go to the new testing site?: No, you do not need a prescription from your medical provider.

16. Will the community be notified of confirmed patient information as it becomes available to Merced County Department of Public Health (MCDPH)?

No. Due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), patient information is protected and confidential. The patient health information cannot be provided by the health care provider due to the HIPPA Privacy regulations.

MCDPH has implemented surveillance methods including monitoring suspected cases of exposure with any confirmed COVID-19 individuals.

17. Does an individual who tests positive for COVID-19 twice get counted as two positive cases in the Merced County Confirmed Cases?: No, individuals who test positive twice are only counted as a single a positive case in the Confirmed Cases.

18. How frequently can an individual test positive for COVID-19?: An individual can test positive for COVID-19 multiple times, which is very common. A positive individual will test positive up to 6-8 weeks, well past recovery.

19. ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de COVID-19?

Las enfermedades reportadas han variado desde personas con síntomas leves hasta personas gravemente enfermas, que requieren hospitalización y fallecen. Los síntomas pueden aparecer 2-14 días después de la exposición*, que incluyen:

Fiebre
Tos
Falta de aliento o dificultad para respirar
Enfermedad severa

Lea sobre los síntomas de COVID-19 con los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC).

*Esto se basa en lo que se ha visto anteriormente como el período de incubación de los virus MERS-CoV.

20. ¿Cómo se propaga/contagia el virus?

El virus que causa COVID-19 parece propagarse de manera fácil y sostenible en la comunidad ("propagación comunitaria”) en algunas áreas geográficas afectadas. La propagación comunitaria significa que las personas han sido infectadas con el virus en una área, incluyendo algunas que no están seguras de cómo o dónde se infectaron.

Al igual que otras enfermedades respiratorias, como la influenza, los coronavirus humanos se transmiten con mayor frecuencia a otros de una persona infectada que tiene síntomas a través de:

Gotas producidas al toser y estornudar.
Contacto personal cercano, como cuidar a una persona infectada.
Tocar un objeto o superficie con el virus, luego tocarse la boca, la nariz o los ojos antes de lavarse las manos.

No asuma que alguien de una raza o nacionalidad particular es mas probable que tenga COVID-19; este virus ha infectado a personas de diferentes razas y nacionalidades en todo el mundo.

Conozca lo que se sabe sobre la propagación de los coronavirus recién emergidos.

21. ¿Puede que alguien que haya tenido COVID-19 pueda transmitir la enfermedad a otros?

El virus que causa COVID-19 se está propagando de persona a persona. Alguien que está activamente enfermo con COVID-19 puede transmitir la enfermedad a otros. Es por eso que los CDC recomiendan que estos pacientes sean aislados en el hospital o en el hogar (dependiendo de qué tan enfermos estén) hasta que estén mejor y ya no presenten un riesgo de infectar a otros.

El tiempo que una persona este enferma de manera activa puede variar, por lo que la decisión sobre cuándo liberar a alguien del aislamiento se toma caso por caso en consulta con médicos, expertos en prevención y control de infecciones y funcionarios de salud pública e implica considerar aspectos específicos de cada situación incluyendo la gravedad de la enfermedad, los signos y síntomas de la enfermedad y los resultados de las pruebas de laboratorio para ese paciente.

La guia actual de los CDC sobre cuándo está bien para liberar a alguien del aislamiento se realiza caso por caso e incluye el cumplimiento de todos los siguientes requisitos:

El paciente no tiene fiebre sin el uso de medicamentos para reducir la fiebre.
El paciente ya no muestra síntomas, incluyendo tos.
El paciente ha dado resultados negativos en al menos dos muestras respiratorias consecutivas obtenidas por lo menos 24 horas aparte /de differencia.

Alguien que ha sido liberado del aislamiento no es considerado como un riesgo de infeccion para otros.

22. ¿Qué es la propagación comunitaria?: La propagación comunitaria significa que las personas han sido infectadas con el virus en una área, incluyendo algunas que no están seguras de cómo o dónde se infectaron.

23. ¿Qué se puede hacer para retrasar la propagación de la infección por COVID-19?: El Condado de Merced sigue las guias proporcionadas por el Departamento de Salud Pública de California (CDPH), y el Condado recomienda fuertemente que todos practiquen el distanciamiento social de seis (6) pies entre personas para reuniones pequeñas, en este momento. Consulte el documento de guia de CDPH sobre reuniones en el siguiente enlace para obtener más detalles: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

24. ¿Debo hacerme la prueba de COVID-19?: Si desarrolla síntomas como fiebre, tos y / o dificultad para respirar, y ha estado en contacto cercano con una persona que se sabe que tiene COVID-19 o ha viajado recientemente desde una área con propagación continua de COVID-19, quédese en casa y llame a su proveedor de atención médica. Los pacientes mayores y las personas que tienen condiciones médicas subyacentes graves o están inmunocomprometidos deben comunicarse con su proveedor de atención médica temprano, incluso si su enfermedad es leve. Si tiene síntomas graves, como dolor persistente o presión en el pecho, nueva confusión o incapacidad para levántarse o labios azulados en la cara, comuníquese con su proveedor de atención médica o sala de emergencias y busque atención médica de inmediato. Su médico determinará si tiene signos y síntomas de COVID-19 y si debe hacerse la prueba.

25. ¿Cómo está manejando el Condado el proceso de prueba?

Las limitaciones de capacidad requieren que el Oficial de Salud del Condado evalúe los criterios de elegibilidad del paciente, trabajando con proveedores médicos. El Oficial de Salud del Condado hizo una presentación en la reunión de la Junta de Supervisores del 10 de marzo de 2020, que incluye información sobre las pruebas; vea la presentación en el siguiente enlace:

https://mercedcountyca.new.swagit.com/videos/44282.

Tambien, consulte el Diagrama de Flujo de Prueba COVID-19 para obtener información sobre las guias de prueba.

26. ¿Una persona que da positivo a la prueba de COVID-19 dos veces se cuenta como dos casos positivos en los casos confirmados del condado de Merced?: No, las personas que dan positivo dos veces solo se cuentan como un solo caso positivo en los casos confirmados.

27. ¿Con qué frecuencia una persona puede dar positivo en la prueba de COVID-19?: Una persona puede dar positivo por COVID-19 varias veces, lo cual es muy común. Un individuo positivo dará positivo hasta por 6 a 8 semanas después de la recuperación.

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COVID-19 – Community & Private Events

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1. What is a "gathering?"

A “gathering” is anything that brings together people in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, cafeteria, or any other indoor or outdoor space.

More info: Gatherings | CDC

2. What is a "mega event?": See Mega Events | State of CA Website.

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COVID-19 – Drinking Water & Wastewater

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1. Do I need to boil my drinking water?: Boiling your water is not required as a precaution against COVID-19.

2. Do I need to buy bottled water or store drinking water?: EPA recommends that citizens continue to use and drink tap water as usual. At this time, there are no indications that COVID-19 is in the drinking water supply or will affect the reliable supply of water.

3. Is drinking tap water safe?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that Americans continue to use and drink tap water as usual. The world Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the, "presence of the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies and based on current evidence the risk to water supplies is low."¹ Additionally, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 is mainly thought to spread between people who are in close contact with one another. Read more from the CDC about about transmission of COVID-19 by navigating to this CDC’s page How It Spreads. Further, EPA’s drinking water regulations require treatment at public water systems to remove or kill pathogens, including viruses.

¹World Health Organization. 2020. Technical Brief. Water, sanitation, hygiene, and waste management for the COVID-19 virus. March. Navigate to the World Heath Organization for more information. Reference number: WHO/2019-NcOV/IPC_WASH/2020.1

4. Is tap water safe to use for hand washing?: EPA recommends that Americans continue to use and drink tap water as usual. According to the CDC, washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps prevent the spread of COVID-19. Read CDC’s hand-washing guidance by navigating to CDC’s page entitled Handwashing.

5. What is EPA's role in ensuring drinking water remains safe?

EPA has established regulations with treatment requirements for public water systems that prevent waterborne pathogens such as viruses from contaminating drinking water. These treatment requirements include filtration and disinfectants such as chlorine that remove or kill pathogens before they reach the tap. Additionally, the World Health Organization notes that, "conventional, centralized water treatment methods which utilize filtration and disinfection should inactivate COVID-19 virus."

EPA will also continue to coordinate with our federal partners, including the CDC, and will continue to provide technical assistance and support to states, as appropriate.

6. What should I do if I'm concerned about my drinking water?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the, "presence of the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies and based on current evidence the risk to water supplies is low."

Homeowners that receive their water form a public water utility may contact their provider to learn more about treatments being used. Treatments could include filtration and disinfectants such as chlorine that remove or kill pathogens before they reach the tap.

Homeowners with private wells who are concerned about pathogens such as viruses in drinking water may consider approaches that remove bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, including certified home treatment devices.

7. Is the COVID-19 virus found in feces?

The virus the causes COVID-19 has been detected in the feces of some patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The amount of virus released from the body (shed) in stool, how long the virus is shed, and whether the virus in stool is infectious are not known.

The risk of transmission of COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person is also unknown. However, the risk is expected to be low based on data from previous outbreaks of related corona viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). There have been no reports of fecal-oral transmission of COVID-19 to date.

8. Can the COVID-19 virus spread through sewage systems?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is reviewing all data on COVID-19 transmission as information becomes available. At this time, the risk of transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19 through sewerage systems is thought to be low. Although transmission of COVID-19 through sewage may be possible, there is no evidence to date that this has occurred. This guidance will be updated as necessary as new evidence is assessed.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), a similar coronavirus, has been detected in untreated sewage for up to 2 to 14 days. In the 2003 outbreak, there was documented transmission associated with sewage aerosols. Data suggest that standard municipal wastewater systems with sewage aerosols. Data suggest that standard municipal wastewater system chlorination practices may be sufficient to inactive coronaviruses, as long as utilities monitor free available chlorine during treatment to ensure it has not been depleted.

Wastewater and sewage workers should use standard practices, practice basic hygiene precautions, and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as prescribed for current work tasks.

9. Should wastewater workers take extra precautions to protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus?: Wastewater treatment plant operations should ensure workers follow routine practices to prevent exposure to wastewater. These include using engineering and administrative controls, safe work practices, and PPE normally required for work tasks when handling untreated wastewater. No additional COVID-19 specific protections are recommended for employees involved in wastewater management operations, including those at wastewater treatment facilities.

10. Can I get COVID-19 from wastewater or sewage?: The World Health Organization (WHO) has indicated that "there is no evidence to date that COVID-19 virus has been transmitted via sewerage systems, with or without wastewater treatment."

11. Do wastewater treatment plants treat COVID-19?: Yes, wastewater treatment plants treat viruses and other pathogens. COVID-19 is a type of virus that is particularly susceptible to disinfection. Standard treatment and disinfectant processes at wastewater treatment plants are expected to be effective.

12. Will my septic system treat COVID-19?: While decentralized wastewater treatment (i.e., septic tanks) do not disinfect, EPA expects a properly managed septic tank to treat COVID-19 the same way it safely manages other viruses often found in wastewater. Additionally, when properly installed, a septic system is located at a distance and location designed to avoid impacting a water supply well.

13. ¿Se puede propagar el virus COVID-19 a través del agua potable?: El virus COVID-19 no se ha detectado en el agua potable. Los métodos convencionales de tratamiento de agua que usan filtración y desinfección, como los de la mayoría de los sistemas muncipales de agua potable, deben eliminar o inactivar el virus que causa COVID-19.

14. ¿Es seguro bebero agua del grifo?

La Agencia de Proteccion Ambiental de los Estados Unidos (EPA) recomienda que los estadounidenses continúen usando y bebiendo agua del grifo como de costumbre. La Organización Mundial de la Salud (WHO) ha declarado que "la presencia del virus COVID-19 no se ha detectado en los suministros de agua potable y, según la evidencia actual, el riesgo para los suministros de agua es bajo".¹ Además, según los Centros de Control y Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC), Se cree que COVID-19 se propaga principalmente entre personas que están en contacto cercano entre sí. Lea más del CDC sobre la transmisión de COVID-19. Además, las regulaciones de la EPA sobre el agua potable requieren tratamiento en los sistemas públicos de agua para eliminar o eliminar los patógenos, incluyendo los virus.

¹ World Health Organization. 2020. Technical Brief. Water, sanitation, hygiene and waste management for the COVID-19 virus. March. Website: https://www.who.int/publications-detail/water-sanitation-hygiene-and-waste-management-for-covid-19. Reference number: WHO/2019-NcOVIPC_WASH/2020.1

15. ¿Necesito hervir mi agua potable?: No es necesario hervir el agua como medida de precaución contra COVID-19.

16. ¿Es seguro usar el agua del grifo para lavarse las manos?: La EPA recomienda que los estadounidenses continúen usando y bebiendo agua del grifo como de costumbre. Según los CDC, lavarse las manos a menudo con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos ayuda a prevenir la propagación de COVID-19. Lea la guía de lavado de manos del CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/esp/index.html

17. ¿Qué debo hacer si estoy preocupado/a por mi agua potable?

La WHO ha declarado que, "la presencia del virus COVID-19 no se ha detectado en los suministros de agua potable y, basado en la evidencia actual, el riesgo para los suministros de agua es bajo".

Los propietarios de viviendas que reciben su agua de un servicio público de agua pueden contactar a su proveedor para obtener más información sobre los tratamientos que se utilizan. Los tratamientos puedaen incluir filtración y desinfectantes como el cloro que eliminan o matan los patógenos antes de que lleguen al grifo.

Los propietarios de viviendas con pozos privados que están preocupados por los patógenos, como los virus en el agua potable, pueden considerar enfoques que eliminen las bacterias, los virus y otros patógenos, incluidos los dispositivos certificados para el tratamiento del hogar.

18. ¿Necesito comprar agua embotellada o almacenar agua potable?: La EPA recomienda que el publico continúe usando y bebiendo agua del grifo como de costumbre. En este momento, no hay indicaciones de que COVID-19 esté en el suministro de agua potable o que afecte el suministro confiable de agua.

19. ¿Cuál es el papel de la EPA para garantizar que el agua potable permanezca segura?

La EPA ha establecido regulaciones con requisitos de tratamiento para los sistemas públicos de agua que evitan que los patógenos transmitidos por el agua, como los virus, contaminen el agua potable. Estos reuisitos de tratamiento incluyen filtración y desinfectantes como el cloro que eliminan o matan los patógenos antes de que lleguen al grifo. Además, la WHO Señala que "los métodos convencionales de tratamiento centralizado del agua que utilizan filtración y desinfección deberían inactivar COVID-19".

La EPA también continuará coordinando con nuestros socios federales, incluyendo los CDC, y continuará coordinando con nuestros socios federeales, incluyendo los CDC, y continuará brindando asistencia técnica y apoyo a los estados, a como sea appropiado.

20. ¿Se encuentra el virus COVID-19 en los excrementos?

El virus que causa COVID-19 se ha detectado en los excrementos de algunos pacientes diagnosticados con COVID-19. Se desconoce la cantidad de virus liberados del cuerpo en los excrementos, cuánto tiempo se expulsa el virus y si el virus en los excrementos es infeccioso.

También se desconoce el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 del excremento de una persona infectada. Sin embargo, se espera que el riesgo sea bajo según los datos de brotes previos de virus relicionados con el coronavirus, como el síndrome respiratorio agudo severo (SARS) y el síndrome respiratorio del Medio Oriente (MERS). No ha habido informes de transmisión fecal-oral de COVID-19 hasta la fecha.

21. ¿Puede el virus COVID-19 propagarse a través de sistemas de alcantarillado?

Los CDC están revisando todos los datos sobre la tranmisión de COVID-19 a medida que la información está disponible. En este momento, se cree que el riesgo de transmisión del virus que causa COVID-19 a través de las aguas residuales puede ser posible, no hay evidencia hasta la fecha de que esto haya ocurrido. Esta guía se actualizará según sea necesario a medida que se evalúe nueva evidencia.

El SARS, un coronavirus similar, se ha detectado en aguas residuales y alcantarillado deben usar prácticas estándar, prácticas básicas precuaciones de higiene y use equipo de protección personal (PPE) según lo prescrito para las tareas de trabajo actuales.

22. ¿Deberían los trabajadores de las aguas residuales tomar precuaciones adicioneales para protegerse del virus COVID-19?: Las operaciones de la planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales deben garantizar que los trabajadores sigan prácticas rutinarias para evitar la exposición a las aguas residuales. Estos incluyen el uso de controles de ingeniería y administrativos, prácticas de tragbajo seguras y equipo de protección personal (PPE) normalmente requerido para tareas de trabajo cuando se manejan aguas residuales no tratadas. No se recomiendan protecciones específicas adicionales de COVID-19 para los empleados involucrados en las operaciones de getión de aguas residuales, incluidas las de las instalaciones de tratamiento de aguas residuales.

23. ¿Puedo obtener COVID-19 de aguas residuales?: La WHO ha indicado que "no hay evidencia hasta la feche de que el virus COVID-19 se haya transmitido a través de sistemas de alcantarillado, con o sin tratamiento de aguas residuales."

24. ¿Las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales tratan COVID-19?: Sí, las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales tratan virus y otro patógenos. COVID-19 es un tipo de virus que es particularmente susceptible a la desinfección. Se espera que los procesos estándar de tratamiento y desinfección en las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales sean efectivos.

25. ¿Mi sistema séptico tratará COVID-19?: Aunque el tratamiento descentralizado de aguas residuales (es decir, tanques sépticos) no desinfecta, la EPA espera que un tanque séptico administrado adecuadamente trate el COVID-19 de la misma manera que maneja de manera segura otros virus que a menudo se encuentran en las aguas residuales. Además, cuando se instala correctamente, un sistema séptico está ubicado a una distancia y en un lugar diseñado para evitar impacto a un pozo de suministro de agua.

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COVID-19 – Food Facilities

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1. What are good hygiene practices, when working in a food facility?

Wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water (100°F minimum). When washing hands, make sure you include the backs of your hands, in between your fingers, and under your fingernails. Hands should be washed for a minimum of 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. The virus can enter through your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Cover your cough or sneeze, and stay home if you are sick. Food facility employees must stay home if you have a fever or a cough.

More info: Safer at Work | CA COVID-19 Website

2. ¿Que son buenas prácticas de higiene, cuando se trabaja en un centro de alimentos?

Lavar sus manos frecuentemente con jabón y agua caliente (100°F minimo). Cuando se lava los manos, asegure de incluir el dorse de las manos, entre los dedos, y debajo de las uñas. Las manos se tienen que lavar por un mínimo de 20 segundos.
Evitar tocar su cara con manos sucias. El virus puede entrar por los ojos, nariz, y la boca.
Cubra su tos y estornudos y quédese en casea si está enfermo. Los empleados de establecimientos de alimentos tienen que quedarse en casa si tienen fiebre o tos.

Mas informacion: Protecciones y derechos de los trabajadores

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COVID-19 – General Information

Show All Answers

1. How can I receive up-to-date information about COVID-19 in Merced County?: If you would like to receive daily COVID-19 updates from Merced County, please visit www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus to sign up for daily emails.

2. What is a coronavirus?: Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Many of them infect animals, but some coronaviruses from animals can evolve or change into a new (novel) human coronavirus that can spread from person-to-person. This is what happened with the new coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease known as COVID-19. Diseases from coronaviruses in people typically cause mild to moderate illness, like the common cold. Some, like the SARS or MERS viruses cause serious infections like pneumonia.

3. How are coronaviruses spread?

Like other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza, human coronaviruses most commonly spread to others from an infected person who has symptoms through:

Droplets produced through coughing and sneezing
Close personal contact, such as caring for an infected person
Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands

Do not assume that someone of a race or nationality is likely to have COVID-19; this virus has infected people of many different races and nationalities across the entire world. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website link How COVID-19 Spreads, to learn more.

4. What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Reported illnesses have ranged from people with mild symptoms to people becoming severely ill, requiring admission to the hospital, and dying. Symptoms include:

Fever
Cough
Difficulty breathing
Severe illness

5. How is COVID-19 treated?: There is no specific treatment for illness caused by COVID-19. However, many of the symptoms can be treated. Treatment is based on the patient’s condition. There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. Be aware of scam products for sale that make false claims to prevent or treat this new infection.

6. How can I help protect myself?

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when your are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Visit the CDC website COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment, to learn more about how to protect yourself.

7. What can be done to slow the spread of COVID-19 infection?: Merced County follows guidance that has been provided by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the County strongly recommends that everyone practice social distancing of six (6) feet between persons for smaller gatherings, at this time. Please see the CDPH guidance document regarding gatherings at the following link for details: https;//www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html

8. Should I wear a facemask?: It is recommended that people wear a cloth face mask to protect themselves from COVID-19 in public settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain. A face mask should be used by people with COVID-19 who have symptoms to protect others from getting infected. Health workers and other people who are taking care of someone infected with COVID-19 in a close setting should wear a mask. The recommended cloth face masks are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators as those should be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders. Guidance on making a cloth face covering can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/DIY-cloth-face-covering-instructions.pdf.

9. Can someone who has been quarantined for COVID-19 spread the illness to others?: Quarantine means separating a person or group of people who have been exposed to a contagious disease but have not developed illness (symptoms) from others who have not been exposed, in order to prevent the possible spread of that disease. Quarantine is usually established for the incubation period of the communicable disease, which is the span of time during which people have developed illness after exposure. For COVID-19, the period of quarantine is 14 days from the last date of exposure, because 14 days is the longest incubation period seen for similar coronaviruses. Someone who has been released from COVID-19 quarantine is not considered a risk for spreading the virus to others because they have not developed illness during the incubation period.

10. How is the County handling the testing process?: Capacity constraints require the County Health Officer to evaluate patient eligibility criteria, working with medical providers. The County Health Officer gave a presentation at the March 10, 2020 Board of Supervisors meeting, which includes information on testing; see the presentation at the following link: https://mercedcountyca.new.swagit.com/video/44282. Also, please refer to the COVID-19 Testing Flow Chart for information regarding Testing guidelines.

11. What else can I do?

Find a healthcare provider if you don’t already have one.
Update your emergency kits with food,water and supplies to last a few days in case there is a need for quarantine. Although this is unlikely, it is important to be prepared as you would for any other emergency.
Continue to encourage welcoming environments for ALL members of our community.

Always Check with reliable sources for the up-to-date, accurate information about novel coronavirus.

Please Note: This is an evolving situation. More information will be distributed as it becomes available. For the most up to date information, please visit: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. For additional information, visit ww.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Departments information line at (209) 381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).

12. ¿Cómo puedo recibir información actualizada sobre COVID-19 en el Condado de Merced?: Si, desea recibir actualizaciones automáticas de COVID-19 del condado de Merced, visite www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus para suscribirse para recibir correos electrónicos diarios.

13. ¿Qué es un coronavirus?: Los coronavirus pertenesen a una familia grande de virus. Muchos de ellos infectan a los animales, pero algunos coronavirus de los animales pueden evolucionar (cambiar) a un nuevo coronavirus humano que puede transmitirse de persona a persona. Esto es lo que sucedió con el nuevo coronavirus conocido como SARS-CoV-2, que causa la enfermedad conocida como COVID-19. Las enfermedades de los coronavirus en las personas generalmente causan enfermedades leves a moderadas, como el resfriado común. Algunos, como el virus SARS o MERS, causan infecciones graves como la neumonía.

14. ¿Cómo se transmiten los coronavirus?

Al igual que otras enfermedades respiratorias, como la influenza, los coronavirus humanos se transmiten con mayor frecuencia por medio de una persona infectada que tiene síntomas por causa de:

• Gotas producidas al toser y estornudar

• Contacto personal cercano, como cuidar a una persona infectada

• Tocar un objeto o superficie con el virus, y luego tocarse la boca, la nariz o los ojos antes de lavarse las manos

No suponga que es probable que alguien de una raza o nacionalidad tenga COVID-19; Este nuevo virus ha infectado a personas de diferentes razas y nacionalidades en todo el mundo. Visite el sitio web de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) “Como se propaga el COVID-19” para obtener más información.

15. ¿Cuáles son los síntomas de COVID-19?

Las enfermedades reportadas han variado desde personas con síntomas leves hasta personas gravemente enfermas, que requieren hospitalización y mueren. Los síntomas incluyen:

• Fiebre

• Tos

• Dificultad para respirar

• Estar gravemente enfermo

• Dolor o presión persistente en el pecho

• Confusión o dificultad para despertar

• Los labios o cara de color azul

16. ¿Cómo se trata COVID-19?: No existe un tratamiento específico para la enfermedad causada por COVID-19. Sin embargo, muchos de los síntomas pueden ser tratados. El tratamiento se basa en la condición del paciente. Actualmente no existe una vacuna para prevenir COVID-19. Este consciente de los productos médicos falsificados que estan a la venta y que hacen afirmaciones falsas para prevenir o tratar esta nueva infección.

17. ¿Cómo puedo ayudar a protegerme?

Actualmente no existe una vacuna para prevenir la enfermedad para el coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). La mejor manera de prevenir enfermedades es evitar exponerse a este virus. Sin embargo, como recordatorio, el Centro para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) siempre recomienda acciones preventivas diarias para ayudar a prevenir la propagación de enfermedades respiratorias, que incluyen:

• Evitar el contacto cercano con personas que están enfermas.

• Evitar tocarse los ojos, la nariz y la boca.

• Quédese en casa cuando esté enfermo.

• Cubra su boca al toser o estornudar con un pañuelo desechable, luego tírelo a la basura.

• Limpie y desinfecte los objetos y las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia con un spray o trapo que se utiliza para la limpieza doméstica.

Visite el sitio web de los CDC COVID-19 Prevension y Tratamiento, para obtener más información sobre cómo protegerse.

18. ¿Qué se puede hacer para retrasar la propagación de la infección por COVID-19?: El Condado de Merced sigue las guias proporcionadas por el Departamento de Salud Pública de California (CDPH), y el Condado recomienda fuertemente que todos practiquen el distanciamiento social de seis (6) pies entre personas para reuniones más pequeñas, en este momento. Consulte el documento de orientación de CDPH sobre reuniones en el siguiente enlace para obtener más detalles: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/Gathering_Guidance_03.11.20.pdf.

19. ¿Debo usar una mascarilla?: No se recomiendea que las personas que se encuentran bien de salud usen una máscara para protegerse del COVID-19 a menos que un professional de la salud lo recomiende. Las personas que tengan síntomas de COVID-19 deben usar una máscara facial para proteger a otros de la infección. Los trabajadores de salud y otras personas que cuidan a alguien infectado con COVID-19 en un entorno cercano deben usar una máscara.

20. ¿Puede alguien que ha sido puesto en cuarentena por COVID- 19 transmitir la enfermedad a otros?: Cuarentena significa separar a una persona o grupo de personas que han estado expuestas a una enfermedad contagiosa pero que no han desarrollado la enfermedad (síntomas) de otras personas que no han estado expuestas, para prevenir la posible propagación de esa enfermedad. La cuarentena generalmente se establece durante el período de incubación de la enfermedad transmisible, que es el período de tiempo durante el cual las personas han desarrollado la enfermedad después de la exposición. Para COVID-19, el período de cuarentena es de 14 días a partir de la última fecha de exposición, porque 14 días es el período de incubación más largo observado para coronavirus similares. Alguien que ha sido liberado de la cuarentena COVID-19 no se considera un riesgo de propagar el virus a otros porque no se han desarrollado enfermedad durante el período de incubación.

21. ¿Cómo está manejando el Condado el proceso de prueba?: Las limitaciones de capacidad requieren que el Oficial de Salud del Condado evalúe los criterios de elegibilidad del paciente, trabajando con proveedores médicos. El Oficial de Salud del Condado hizo una presentación en la reunión de la Junta de Supervisores del 10 de marzo de 2020, que incluye información sobre las pruebas; vea la presentación en el siguiente enlace: https://mercedcountyca.new.swagit.com/videos/44282 También, consulte el diagrama de prueba COVID-19 para obtener información sobre las indicaciones de la prueba.

22. ¿Que más puedo hacer?

•Encuentre un proveedor de atención médica si aún no tiene uno.

•Actualice sus kits de emergencia con alimentos, agua y suministros para queduren unos días en caso de que sea necesario ponerse en cuarentena. Aunqueesto es poco probable, es importante estar preparado como lo haría para cualquierotra emergencia.

•Continúe fomentando ambientes acogedores para TODOS los miembros denuestra comunidad.

FAQs: Información General 4 Actualizado en 3/23/2020

Siempre consulte con fuentes confiables para recibir información actualizada y precisa sobre COVID-19.

• Merced County Department of Public Health

• California Department of Public Health (CDPH, State)

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, National)

• World Health Organization (WHO, International)

• United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)

TENGA EN CUENTA: Esta es una situación que cambia al día. Se distribuirá más información a medida que esté disponible. Para obtener la información más actualizada, visite: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Para obtener información adicional, visite www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus o llame a la línea de información del Departamento al (209) 381-1180 (Inglés, Español, Hmong).

23. Kuv yuav txais tau cov xov xwm tshiab txog tus kab mob COVID-19 hauv lus nroog Merced li cas?: Yog koj xav tau xov xwm tshiab txhua hnub qhia txog tus kab mob COVID-19 hauv lub nroog Merced, thov mus saib hauv internet ntawm www.mercedcounty.com/coronavirus.

24. Tus kab mob Coronavirus yog dab tsis?: Cov kab mob Coronavirus yog ib co kab mob uas muaj ntau heev. Ib co kis tau rau tsiaj, tab sis, ib co kab mob coronavirus ntawm tsiaj loj hlob thiab pauv tau mus ua ib tug kab mob uas kis tau rau tib neeg. Qhov no yog qhov xwm txheej uas tsim muaj tau tus kab mob tshiab coronavirus hu ua SARS-CoV-2 uas yog tus kab mob niaj hnub niam no hu ua COVID-19. Cov kev mob los ntawm tus kab mob coronavirus hauv tib neeg feem ntau ua rau muaj cov kev mob me thiab nws tsis ua mob loj ib yam li tus kab mob khaub thuas. Ib co kab mob xws li tus kab mob SARS los yog tus kab mob MERS ua tau rau tib neeg muaj mob loj thiab mob hnyav rau lub ntsws.

25. Cov kab mob coronavirus kis tau rau lwm tus li cas?

Ib yam nkaus li cov keb mob nyob rau hauv lub ntsws xws li tu kab mob khaub thuas thiab cov kab mob coronavirus, nws kis mus tau rau lwm tus neeg los ntawm ib tug neeg ua muaj cov mob tsos los ntawm:

tus neeg mob cov pa txham thiab pa hnoos

Kev nyob sib ze xws li thaum ib tug neeg tus ib tug neeg muaj mob

Thiab thaum yus kov los yog chwv ib qho dab tsis uas muaj tus kab mob lo rau ntawd tas ces yus los mus kov yus lus qhov ncauj, qhov muag thiab qhov ntswg ua ntej yus ntxuav tes.

Tus kab mob COVID-19 no nws tsis xaiv ntsej xaiv muag thiab nws tsis xaiv haiv neeg twg uas nws yuav los mus kis mob rau. Yog li ntawv, tsis txhob xwv xam tias ib haiv neeg twg, los yog ib pab neeg twg yog cov uas yuav kis tau tus kab mob no xwb.

Tus kab mob no twb kis tau rau cooj leej ntaub tus neeg thiab ntaub haiv neeg thoob ntiaj teb lawm. Yog koj xav paub ntxiv txog tus kab mob no thiab nws kis tau rau lwm tus li cas, mus saib hauv internet ntawm lawv qhov chaws saib xyuas thiab tiv thaiv kev kab mob ntawm CDC qhov website How COVID-19 Spreads.

26. Cov tsos mob ntawm tus kab mob COVID-19 no yog li cas?

Cov neeg uas tau muaj mob dua los lawm muaj cov tsos mob uas tsis phom sij, thiab muaj cov uas muab mob hnyav heev ua tau raug mus pw rau tim tsev kho mob thiab tseem muaj cov ua tau tas sim neej lawm thiab. Cov tsos mob muaj raws li ntawm no:

Ua npaws
Hnoos
Ua pas txog siav thiab ua pa nyuaj nyuaj
Muaj mob hnyav heev

27. Kev kho tus kab mob COVID-19 no yog li cas?: Tsis muaj ib yam dab tsis ua yuav kho tau cov kev mob ua los ntawm tus kab mob COVID-19. Tab sis, cov tsos mob kho tau kom zoo. Kev uas yuav kho tau ib tug neeg zoo nyob ntawm tus neeg mob ntawd lub cev. Tam sim no tseem tsis tau muaj ib koob tshuaj txhaj uas yuav los pab tiv thaiv tau tus kab mob COVID-19 no. Xyuam xim thiab ua zoo saib vim muaj tej yam khoom ua neeg muag thiab dag hais tias yuav pab kho thiab tiv thaiv tau tus kab mob no.

28. Kuv yuav tiv thaiv kuv tus kheej li cas?

Tseem tsis tau muaj ib koob tshuaj ua yuav siv tau los mus txhaj kom tiv thaiv tau tus kab mob COVID-19 no. Txoj kev ua yuav pab koj tiv thaiv tus kab mob no zoo tshaj yog tsis txhob pub koj tus kheej nyob rau tej qho chaws uas phom sij uas muaj tus kab mob no. Tsis tas li ntawv xwb, nco ntsoov tias, qhov chaws uas pab saib xyuav thiab tiv thaiv kev mob lossis CDC, tau qhia hais tias txhua txhua hnub, koj yuav tsum ceev faj thiab ua qee yam uas yuav pab tiv thaiv txoj kev kis cov kev kab mob ntsws xws lis:

Nyob kom nrug deb ntawm cov neeg uas muaj mob
Txhob kov koj lub qhov ncauj, qhov muag, thiab qhov ntswg
Nyob twj ywm hauv tsev yog hais tias koj muaj mob
Npog koj lub qhov ncauj thiab qhov ntswg thaum uas koj txham nrog ib daim ntaub so ntswg thiab muab pov tseg hauv cov thoob khib nyiab
Siv cov tshuaj tu tsev los mus so lossis los mus tsuag cov khoom ua tib neeg kov los yog chwv heev tshaj

Mus rau CDC qhov website COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment, yog koj xav paub txog kev tiv thaiv koj tus kheej ntaub tshaj no.

29. Yuav ua li cas thiaj li pab tau kom txoj kev kis tus kab mob no kis qeeb zog?: Lus Nroog Merced ua raws li lub xeev California lub tsev noj qab haus huv (CDPH) tau qhia, thiab lub nroog pom zoo rau koj sawv daws nyob sib nrug deb li ntawm 6 feet ua ke thaum uas muaj neeg tuaj nyob ua ib pab. Thov mus saib CDPH daim ntawv qhia txog kev nyob sib nrug deb ntawm qhov website sau ntawm no https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/index.html.

30. Kuv puas tha looj cov ntaub npog qhov ncauj qhov ntswg?: Yog hais tias koj tus kwv kho mob tsis tau hais kom koj looj, ces koj tsis tham looj los tsis ua cas. Cov ntaub npog ntsej muag yuav tsum tau raug siv los ntawm cov neeg uas muaj mob zoo li cov mob los ntawm tus kab mob coronavirus Disease 2019 kom pab tiv thaiv tau kev kis mus rau lwm tus neeg. Cov ntaub npog ntsej muag tseem ceeb heev rau cov neeg uas ua huaj lwm rau cov chaws kho mob thiab tsis tas li ntawv, cov ntaub npog ntsej muag tseem ceeb heev rau cov neeg uas tu lwm tus neeg uas muaj tus kab mob COVID-19.

31. Cov neeg uas muaj tus kab mob COVID-19 thiab tau raug muab cais mus nyob ib leeg kis puas tau tus kab mob no rau lwm tus neeg?

Quarantine txhais tau hais tias ib tug neeg los yog ib pab neeg uas tau raug tus kab mob tab sis lawv tsis tau pom muaj cov tsos mob yuav tau raug muab cais mus nyob twm zeej kom lawv kis tsis tau tus kab mob no mus rau lwm tus neeg ua tseem nyob zoo.

Txoj kev cais mus nyob ib leeg kom tsis txhob kis mob rau lwm tus yog pib thaum ib tug neeg nyuam qhuav raug tus kab mob no thawj zaug thiab yog lub sijhawm thaum tus neeg mob yuav pib muaj cov tsos mob tshwm sij. Rau tus kab mob COVID-19 no, txoj kev cais mus nyob ib leeg yog 14 hnub, pib thaum hnub kawm uas tus neeg ntawv kis tau tus mob vim hais tias 14 hnub yog qhov ua ntev tshaj plaws rau ib tug neeg uas muaj tus kab mob no. Ib tug neeg uas tau raug tso tawm ntawm txoj kev cais mus nyob ib leeg tsis muaj feem kis tau tus kab mob rau lwm tus neeg vim lawv tsis tau muaj cov tsos mob uas yuav huam loj tuaj lawv thiaj raug tso. Lub sijhawm no yog ib lub sijhawm muab lawv cais kom seb lawm puas huam mob tuaj xwb.

32. Lub nroog tuav txoj kev kuaj mob li cas?

Vim yog muaj kev txwv loj, tus kws saib xyuav kev noj qab haus huv hauv lus nroog koom tes nrog cov kwv kho mob yuav tau ntsuam xyuas cov neeg seb leej twg tsim nyog mus kuaj mob tiag tiag. Tus kws saib xyuas kev noj qab haus huv haus lus nroog nyuam qhuav tawm suab qhia txog kev yuav mus kuaj mob thaum lub 3 hli ntuj tim 10 xyoo 2020 nram lub rooj sab laj sib tham nrog cov 2020 Board of Supervisors . Mus saib nws hais lus tawm suab ntawm no: https://mercedcountyca.new.swagit.com/videos/44282

Tsis tas li ntawd, thov tig mus rau Daim Ntawv Qhia Txog Kev Kuaj Tus Kab Mob COVID-19 kom koj paub ntau tshaj no txog kev qhia yuav mus kuaj mob.

33. Kuv yuav ua tau dab tsis ntxiv thiab?

Mus nrhiav ib tug kwv kho mob yog koj tsis tau muaj.
Npaj zaub npaj mov thiab koom siv rau thaum muaj kev emergency kom txaus li ob peb hnub tsam ho tau raug cais mus nyob ib leeg. Txawm hais tias txoj kev cais yuav tau mus nyob ib leeg tsis tshua muaj los yuav tsum tau npaj tos ua ntej rau tej thaum uas muaj kev emergency ceev.
Txhawb thiab tos txais txhuaj leej txhua tus uas nyob ib puag ncig hauv peb lus nroog mus txuas ntxiv.

Nco ntsoov kuaj thiab saib tej ntaub ntawv uas yus ntseeg siab rau uas qhia txog xov xwm tawm tshiab ntawm tus kab mob coronavirus.

Merced County Department of Public Health

www.mercedcounty.com/coronavirus

California Department of Public Health (CDPH, State)

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/nCOV2019.aspx

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, National)

http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019.html

World Health Organization (WHO, International)

https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus

United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)

https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus

Thov nco ntsoov: qhov xwm txheej no yog ib qho uas muaj xov xwm tshiab tas lis. Xov xwm tshiab yuav tawm raws li thaum lawv tso tawm. Yog koj xav paub txog cov xov xwm uas tawm tshiab, thov mus rau: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Thiab yog koj xav paub ntxiv, mus rau www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus lossis hu rau tus xov tooj no (209) 381-1180 (Lus Askis, Lub Mev, thiab lus Hmoob).

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COVID-19 – Housing

Show All Answers

1. I’ve heard the Governor of California put a moratorium on evictions. What is that?

On March 27, 2020 Governor Gavin Newsom signed executive Order N-37-20. This Executive Order delayed the issuance of a summons in any unlawful detainer action for 60 days, providing that the tenant meet specific requirements, discussed below. An “unlawful detainer action” is the court proceeding that a landlord uses to lawfully evict an tenant from the residence. A “summons” is an order to appear before a judge or court, and is issued that the beginning of all legal proceedings, including an unlawful detainer action. According to Executive Order N-37-20, a tenant who meets the specified criteria discussed below would have 60 days from receipt of the summons to respond to the unlawful detainer action. After that 60 day period the court proceedings would resume.

2. What protections does the Governor’s March 27th executive order put in place for residents financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?

Executive Oder N-37-20 allows tenants who meet the requirements discussed below to remain in their residence for an extended period of time by delaying the court proceedings required to remove the tenants from the residence. The Order also prohibits a writ of possession from being issued against tenants who meet the qualifications discussed below. A writ of possession is an order from the court that authorizes the Sheriff to evict occupants from the property, and return possession to the landlord.

3. Who qualifies for the protections created in the Governor’s March 27th executive order regarding residents who are financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?: All tenants who notify their landlord in writing either before their rent is due, or within seven (7) days after it is due that they, the tenant, need to delay all or some of their rent payment because of an inability to pay for reasons related to COVID-19 qualify for the protections articulated in Executive Order N-37-20. The tenant needs to keep and show evidence of the notice to the landlord and their inability to pay. The evidence would be in the form of termination notices, bank statements or pay stubs or other documents supporting the tenant’s assertion regarding the inability to timely pay the rent.

4. How long is the Governor’s March 27th executive order in effect? What happens once the order expires?: Executive Order N-37-20 indicates that these protections granted to tenants shall be in effect through May 31, 2020. Accordingly, unless these protections are extended by the Governor, on June 1, 2020, Executive Order N-37-20 would no longer bar unlawful detainer court actions from being initiated or moving forward. Other protections put in place by the California Judicial Council and the CARES Act will likely extend protections beyond Executive Order N-37-20.

5. Are there any other protections for renters during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The California Judicial Council has enacted several Rules of Court related to COVID -19. Emergency rule 1 discusses unlawful detainer actions. This rule stays, or stops, all current, active unlawful detainer actions. The rule also prohibits the issuance of a summons on new unlawful detainer actions until 90 days after the Governor declares that the state of emergency related to the COVID -19 pandemic is lifted, or until the rule is amended or lifted by the Judicial Council. The only exceptions to this rule are cases where the unlawful detainer action is necessary public health and safety.

On March 27, 2020 President Donald Trump signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“ CARES act”) into law. The CARES Act prohibits landlords of certain rental “covered dwellings” from initiating eviction proceedings or charging fees, penalties, or other charges. against a tenant for the nonpayment of rent. These protections extend until July 25, 2020 (120 days from enactment). The CARES act requires landlords of the same properties to provide tenants at least 30 days-notice before they, the tenants must vacate the property. It also bars those landlords from issuing a notice to vacate during the 120- day period. Thus the CARES act arguably prohibits landlords from being able to force a tenant to vacate a covered dwelling for nonpayment or any other reason until August 23, 2020 (i.e., 120 days after enactment, plus 30 days after notice is provided).

6. Does the Governor’s March 27 executive order require a landlord/property manager/owner to forgive the rent that a resident cannot afford to pay due to financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemi: No, none of the tenant protections currently in effect forgives the payment of rent.

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COVID-19 – Jails & Prisons

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1. How are CDCR and CCHCS preparing for a potential COVID-19 exposure?

CDCR and CCHCS are prepared to address exposure to COVID-19 through infection control practices already in place to prevent the spread of any communicable disease. Based on guidance from the CDC, and to ensure we are as prepared as possible to respond to any exposure to COVID-19 specifically, we are building upon the robust influenza infection control guidelines already in place at each institution. These guidelines clearly define procedures for prevention of transmission, management of suspected and confirmed cases including isolation and quarantine protocols, surveillance of patients, and routine cleaning and disinfection procedures. If there is a suspected case of COVID-19, we will follow the policies and procedures already in place for modified programming for any affected housing units and institutions. We will continue to update guidelines for COVID-19 response based on CDC recommendations and will maintain cooperation with local and state health departments and the law enforcement community.

Executives and staff at CDCR and CCHCS are working closely with infectious disease control experts preparing for a scenario where COVID-19 (new coronavirus) could significantly affect operations. The multidisciplinary workgroup includes health care executives, public health nurses, custody and prison operations executives, occupational safety experts and department planners responsible for business continuity. We will continue to ensure inmate safety and security, and the continuation of access to medical, dental, and mental health services.

2. How can custodial and health care workers stay protected?

CDCR/CCHCS staff should ensure they are adhering to established infection control policies and procedures already in place to protect against the spread of communicable diseases in our institutions. The California Department of Public Health reminds everyone that precautions you take when trying to avoid getting the flu are no different from what people should be doing every day to avoid the coronavirus and other respiratory diseases:

Wash your hands regularly
Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze
And when you’re sick, stay home from work or school

3. Are there enough supplies to protect inmates and staff?: An initial audit of necessary protective equipment at each institution was conducted which showed most have an adequate supply to immediately address any potential COVID-19 exposures. We will be actively assessing supply and demand and ensuring that the institutions have the resources they need to protect staff and inmates. The workgroup will continue to collaborate and maintain open lines of communication with the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to identify any deficiencies and ensure adequate supplies are available at each institution. Federal and state public health departments stress that masks and other personal protective equipment are only recommended for those working in a health care setting or who are displaying symptoms. If your daily duties do not regularly require you to wear a mask, you do not need to wear one.

4. Is CDCR considering halting visiting at the institutions?: As part of CDCR’s COVID-19 prevention efforts, normal inmate visiting will be canceled statewide until further notice based on California Department of Public Health guidance for mass gatherings. This includes normal visiting for the Division of Juvenile Justice. At this time, overnight family visits and legal/attorney visits will be held as scheduled. CDCR values visitation as an essential part of rehabilitation, the Department must make difficult decisions in order to protect the health and wellness of all who live in, work in, and visit state prisons. Visitors should monitor CDCR’s website for more information and updates. Incarcerated person marriages will be postponed, those affected are encouraged to work with the institution’s Community Resource Manager regarding rescheduling at a later date.

5. What precautions or screenings are in place for inmates arriving at or leaving from state prison?

CDCR and CCHCS continue to follow their robust screening practices for inmates entering or exiting state prison, including taking temperature. Licensed health care staff conduct a Reception Center health care staff conduct a Reception Center health care assessment as part of the initial intake process for each inmate newly committed to CDCR custody.

This assessment, includes:

A face-to-face interview to review medical records, take a brief health history, and review medication history.
A physical examination addressing any items identified during the interview
Vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration.

6. Are events or tours being canceled or postponed?

At this time, CDCR has issued limitations only on discretionary visits to the prisons; this does not include those entering the facilities to provide normal rehabilitative programming. Discretionary visits include those by filmmakers, public tours, and special events.

CDCR is committed to maintaining positive, normal programming encourages the incarcerated population to remain focused on their rehabilitation. However, those visiting state prisons every day as program providers, contractors, and volunteers are urged to not enter a CDCR institution, or take part in a program or event, if they have symptoms.

7. ¿Cómo se están preparando CDCR y CCHCS para una posible exposición de COVID-19?

CDCR y CCHCS están preparados para abordar la exposición al COVID-19 a través de prácticas de control de infecciones ya existentes para prevenir la propagación de cualquier enfermedad contagiosa. Basado en la guía de los CDC, y para asegurarnos de que estamos lo más posible preparados para responder específicamente a cualquier exposición al COVID-19, estamos construyendo sobre las fuertes guias de control de infecciones de influenza que ya existen en cada institución. Estas guias definen claramente los procedimientos para la prevención de la transmisión, el manejo de casos sospechosos y confirmados, incluyendo los protocolos de aislamiento y cuarentena, la vigilancia de pacientes y los procedimientos de limpieza y desinfección de rutina. Si hay un caso sospechoso de COVID-19, seguiremos las polízas y los procedimientos ya existentes para la programación modificada de las unidades e instituciones de vivienda afectadas. Continuaremos actualizando las guias para el respond al COVID-19 basado en las recomendaciones de los CDC y mantendremos la cooperación con los departamentos de salud locales y estatales y la comunidad de aplicación de la ley.

Los ejecutivos y el personal de CDCR y CCHCS están trabajando cercanamente con expertos en control de enfermedades infecciosas que se preparan para un escenario en el que COVID-19 (nuevo coronavirus) podría afectar significativamente las operaciones. El grupo de trabajo multidisciplinario incluye ejecutivos de atención médica, enfermeras de salud pública, ejecutivos de operaciones de custodia y prision, expertos en seguridad laboral y planificadores de departamentos responsables de la continuidad del negocio. Continuaremos garantizando la seguridad de los reclusos, y la continuación del acceso a los servicios médicos, dentales y de salud mental.

8. Cómo pueden mantenerse protegidos los trabajadores de custodia y atención médica?

El personal de CDCR / CCHCS debe asegurarse de cumplir con las polízas y los procedimientos de control de infecciones ya establecidos para proteger contra la propagación de enfermedades transmisibles en nuestras instituciones. El Departamento de Salud Pública de California (California Department of Public Health - CDPH) recuerda a todos que las precauciones que debe tomar al tratar de evitar contraer la gripe no son diferentes de lo que las personas deberían hacer todos los días para evitar el coronavirus y otras enfermedades respiratorias:

Lave sus manos regularmente
Cúbrase la nariz y la boca cuando estornude
Y cuando esté enfermo, quédese en casa

9. ¿Hay suficientes suministros para proteger a los reclusos/presos y al personal?: Se realizó una auditoría inicial del equipo de protección necesario en cada institución que mostró que la mayoría tiene un suministro adecuado para abordar de inmediato cualquier posible exposición al COVID-19. Evaluaremos activamente la oferta y la demanda y aseguraremos que las instituciones tengan los recursos que necesitan para proteger al personal y a los reclusos. El grupo de trabajo continuará colaborando y manteniendo líneas de comunicación abiertas con la Oficina de Servicios de Emergencia del Gobernador para identificar cualquier deficiencia y garantizar que suministros adecuados esten disponibles en cada institución. Los departamentos de salud pública federales y estatales enfatizan que las máscaras y otros equipos de protección personal solo se recomiendan para aquellos que trabajan en un entorno/ambiente de atención médica o que presentan síntomas. Si sus tareas diarias no requieren que use una máscara con regularidad, no necesita usarla.

10. ¿El CDCR está considerando suspender las visitas a las instituciones?: Como parte de los esfuerzos de CDCR de la prevención COVID-19, las visitas normales de los reclusos se cancelarán en todo el estado hasta nuevo aviso basado en la guia del CDPH para reuniones masivas. Esto incluye visitas normales para la División de Justicia Juvenil. En este momento, las visitas familiares durante la noche y las visitas legales/de abogados se llevaran a cabo como previsto. El CDCR valora las visitas como una parte esencial de la rehabilitación, el Departamento debe tomar decisiones difíciles para proteger la salud y el bienestar de todos los que viven, trabajan y visitan las prisiones estatales. Los visitantes deben monitorear el sitio web de CDCR para obtener más información y actualizaciones. Los matrimonios de personas encarceladas se pospondrán, se les sugiere a los afectados a trabajar con el Gerente de Recursos Comunitarios de la institución a cambiar la fecha de su cita a una fecha posterior/en el futuro.

11. ¿Qué precauciones o evaluaciónes de detección existen para los internos que llegan o salen de la prisión estatal?

CDCR y CCHCS continúan siguiendo sus prácticas de detección robustas para los reclusos que ingresan o salen de la prisión estatal, incluida la toma de temperatura. El personal con licencia de atención médica realiza una evaluación del cuidado de la salud del Centro de Recepción como parte del proceso de admisión inicial para cada recluso recién admitido a la custodia de CDCR.

Esta evaluación incluye:

Una entrevista cara a cara para revisar los registros médicos, tomar un breve historial de salud y revisar el historial de medicamentos.
Un examen físico que se enfoca en cualquier elemento identificado durante la entrevista.
Signos vitales, que incluyen temperatura, presión arterial, pulso y respiraciones.

12. ¿Se cancelan o posponen los eventos o giras?

En este momento, CDCR ha emitido limitaciones solo en visitas discrecionales a las prisiones; esto no incluye a quienes ingresan a las instalaciones para proporcionar una programación de rehabilitación normal. Las visitas discrecionales incluyen las de cineastas, giras públicas y eventos espcialies.

CDCR se compromete a mantener el animo positivo, una programación normal anima a la población encarcelada a permanecer enfocada en su rehabilitación. Sin embargo, aquellos que visitan las prisiones estatales todos los días como proveedores de programas, contratistas y voluntarios se les sugiere a no ingresar a una institución de CDCR, o participar en un programa o evento, si tienen síntomas.

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COVID-19 – Pools & Spas

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1. Can the COVID-19 virus spread through pools and spas/hot tubs?: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) at this time says that there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to humans through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g., with chlorine or bromine) of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19. You can find more information here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html

2. What are the proper disinfection requirements for public pools and spas/wading pools/spray grounds in California?

For pools, maintain free chlorine levels between 1.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (without cyanuric acid) and 2.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (with cyanuric acid). Maintain a pH level between 7.2-7.8. If using bromine, maintain a minimum bromine level of 2.0 ppm.

For spas/wading pools/spray grounds, maintain free chlorine levels between 3.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (with or without cyanuric acid). Maintain a pH level between 7.2 - 7.8. If using bromine, maintain a minimum bromine level of 4.0 ppm.

You can find more information here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CEH/DRSEM/Pages/EMB/RecreationalHealth/California-Swimming-Pool-Requirements.aspx

3. Can I have a pool service company maintain my pool?: Yes. Pool service companies are considered essential businesses.

4. Can I go swimming at a public pool?: No. In order to maintain public safety and social distancing guidelines, all public pools are to remain closed.

5. ¿Puede el virus COVID-19 propagarse a través de piscinas y spas / jacuzzis?

Los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades (CDC) en este momento dicen que no hay evidencia de que COVID-19 pueda transmitirse a los humanos mediante el uso de piscinas y jacuzzis. El funcionamiento, mantenimiento y desinfección adecuada (por ejemplo, con cloro o bromo) de las piscinas y jacuzzis deberían eliminar o inactivar el virus que causa COVID-19. Puede encontrar más información aquí: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html

6. ¿Cuáles son los requisitos de desinfección adecuados para piscinas públicas y spas / piscinas para niños / áreas de rociado en California?

Para piscinas, mantenga los niveles de cloro libre entre 1.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (sin ácido cianúrico) y 2.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (con ácido cianúrico). Mantenga un nivel de pH entre 7.2-7.8. Si usa bromo, mantenga un nivel mínimo de bromo de 2.0 ppm.

Para spas / piscinas para niños / áreas de rociado, mantenga los niveles de cloro libre entre 3.0 ppm - 10.0 ppm (con o sin ácido cianúrico). Mantener un nivel de pH entre 7.2 - 7.8. Si usa bromo, mantenga un nivel mínimo de bromo de 4.0 ppm.

Puede encontrar mas informacion aqui: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CEH/DRSEM/Pages/EMB/RecreationalHealth/California-Swimming-Pool-Requirements.aspx

7. ¿una empresa de servicios de piscinas pueda mantener mi piscina?

Si. Las empresas de servicios de piscinas se consideran negocios esenciales.

8. ¿Puedo ir a nadar a una piscina pública?: No. Para mantener las pautas de seguridad pública y distanciamiento social, todas las piscinas públicas deben permanecer cerradas.

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COVID-19 – Travel

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1. How can I protect myself when I travel?: At this time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people avoid all nonessential travel to countries that are most affected by COVID-19. Check the CDC COVID-19 Information for Travel webpage https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html for up-to-date recommendations. Taking steps to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, like the flu, will also help to prevent coronaviruses. Talk with your doctor before travel to make sure you have received the recommended vaccines and medications specific to your destination to protect your health.

2. What actions are being taken by the Federal Government regarding travelers from mainland China and Iran?

Because of the COVID-19 outbreak in mainland China and Iran, there are White House travel directives in place:

Restricting all foreign nationals who have traveled or been in mainland China and Iran in the past 14 days from entering the US. This order can be renewed by the President every 14 days.
Requiring all US citizens and their close family members returning from mainland China to enter through one of eleven airports in the US, where they will be screened by US Customs and Border Protection agents.
If travelers are showing signs of respiratory illness, they will be sent for additional testing to a health care facility.
If travelers were in the Hubei Province at any time in the past 14 days, they will be quarantined at a secure location and monitored for illness for 14 days from their last exposure.
If travelers are returning from other places in mainland China and have been in close contact with a confirmed case of novel coronavirus, they may also be subject to quarantine for 14 days from last exposure.
If travelers are returning from all other parts of mainland China and they have not been in close contact with a confirmed case of novel coronavirus, they will be allowed to travel to their final destination where they will be monitored by their local public health department and asked to remain in their homes and avoid public places for 14 days from last exposure.

3. What actions are being taken by the Federal Government regarding travelers from other affected countries?: The CDC is recommending that any traveler from other countries with outbreaks of COVID-19 who may have fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, within 14 days after leaving should call their doctor and self-isolate (Avoid contact with others and not travel on public transportation while sick).

4. How will Public Health monitor travelers who are self-isolated?: With the new travel guidance, Public Health will regularly monitor potential cases to see if they develop any symptoms or fever. This is the same process we use with other communicable diseases, such as measles. Public Health will also monitor contacts for 14 days after the time of their last exposure, after which time they are free of the risk of developing COVID-19.

5. What should we do if a child, student, or staff member has recently traveled to an area with COVID-19 or has a family member who has traveled to an area with COVID-19?

Review updated CDC information for travelers and consult with state and local health officials. Health officials may use CDC’s Interim US Guidance for Risk Assessment and Public Health Management of Persons with Potential Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Exposure in Travel-associated or Community Settings to make recommendations. Individuals returning from travel to areas with community spread of COVID-19 must follow guidance they have received from health officials.

6. ¿Cómo puedo protegerme cuando viajo?: En este momento, los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) recomiendan que las personas eviten todos los viajes no esenciales a los países más afectados por COVID-19. Consulte la página de información de CDC COVID-19 para viajes https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html para obtener recomendaciones actualizadas. Tomar medidas para prevenir la propagación de infecciones respiratorias, como la gripe, también ayudará a prevenir los coronavirus. Hable con su médico antes de viajar para asegurarse de haber recibido las vacunas y medicamentos recomendados específicos para su destino para proteger su salud.

7. ¿Qué medidas está tomando el Gobierno Federal con respecto a los viajeros de China continental e Irán?

Debido al brote de COVID-19 en China continental e Irán, existen directivas de viaje de la Casa Blanca:

Restringir a todos los extranjeros que han viajado o han estado en China continental e Irán en los últimos 14 días desde que ingresaron a los Estados Unidos de America (USA). El presidente puede renovar esta orden cada 14 días.
Requerir que todos los ciudadanos estadounidenses y sus familiares cercanos que regresen de China continental ingresen a través de uno de los once aeropuertos de USA., Donde serán inspeccionados por agentes de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza de USA (US Customs and Border Protection)
Si los viajeros muestran signos de enfermedad respiratoria, serán enviados para pruebas adicionales a un centro de atención medico.
Si los viajeros estuvieron en la Provincia de Hubei en cualquier momento en los últimos 14 días, serán puestos en cuarentena en un lugar seguro y monitoreados por enfermedad durante 14 días desde su última exposición.
Si los viajeros regresan de otros lugares de China continental y han estado en contacto cercano con un caso confirmado de nuevo coronavirus, también pueden estar sujetos a cuarentena durante 14 días desde la última exposición.
Si los viajeros regresan de todas las otras partes de China continental y no han estado en contacto cercano con un caso confirmado de nuevo coronavirus, se les permitirá viajar a su destino final donde serán monitoreados por su departamento de salud pública local y se les preguntará permanecer en sus hogares y evitar lugares públicos durante 14 días desde la última exposición.

8. ¿Qué medidas está tomando el Gobierno Federal con respecto a los viajeros de otros países afectados?

Los CDC recomiendan que cualquier viajero de otros países con brotes de COVID-19 que pueda tener fiebre, tos o dificultad para respirar, dentro de los 14 días posteriores a la partida, debe llamar a su médico y aislarse (evitar el contacto con otros y no viajar en público transporte mientras está enfermo).

9. ¿Cómo monitoreará la Salud Pública a los viajeros que están aislados?: Con la nueva guía de viaje, Salud Pública supervisará periódicamente los posibles casos para ver si desarrollan síntomas o fiebre. Este es el mismo proceso que utilizamos con otras enfermedades transmisibles, como el sarampión. Salud Pública también controlará los contactos durante 14 días después del momento de su última exposición, después de lo cual estarán libres del riesgo de desarrollar COVID-19.

10. ¿Qué debemos hacer si un niño, estudiante o empleado ha viajado recientemente a una área con COVID-19 o tiene un miembro de la familia que ha viajado a una área con COVID-19?

Revise la información actualizada de los CDC para los viajeros y consulte con los funcionarios de salud estatales y locales. Los funcionarios de salud pueden utilizar las Guis Provisionales de los CDC de USA. Para la Evaluación de Riesgos y la Gestión de la Salud Pública de las Personas con Potencial de Enfermedad por Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Exposición en entornos comunitarios o de viaje para hacer recomendaciones. Las personas que regresan de viajes a áreas con propagación comunitaria de COVID-19 deben seguir la guia que han recibido de los funcionarios de salud.

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COVID-19 – Vaccine

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1. How do I get a vaccine?: Register online through MyTurn.

2. How do I find more information about the vaccine?: Visit Vaccine Merced County.

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District Attorney

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1. Can I report a crime to the District Attorney's Office?: In most cases, a crime must be reported to the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction over the city or county where the crime occurred. However, there are exceptions, for example, if you wish to report someone for WELFARE FRAUD, you may call the Welfare Fraud tip line at 72-FRAUD (723-7283) or if you wish to call the GANG UNIT tip line, you may call (866) 264-5251 or (209) 385-7314.

2. I am the victim of a crime and I want to drop charges. Can I do this?: Crimes are charged by the District Attorney’s Office on behalf of the People of the State of California, not on behalf of any particular victim. The decision to file or to drop charges in any criminal prosecution can only be made by an attorney in the District Attorney’s Office. A victim’s wishes will be considered, but the final determination as to whether or not charges will be filed or dismissed rests with the D.A.’s Office. You may, however, fill out a “Memorandum”. To do this you must come to our office located at 550 W. Main Street, Merced, California. Speak to the person at the front desk and ask to fill out a drop charges memorandum.

3. I was the victim of a violent crime and need assistance with paying medical, funeral, mental health, income or other related losses. Where can I get this assistance?: Contact the VICTIM/WITNESS Assistance Program of the District Attorney’s Office. Victim advocates can provide information about the California State Victim Compensation Program and information about other services. More...

4. I have to testify in court and it is making me very anxious. I am concerned about not knowing what to expect. Who can I talk to about my concerns?: Contact the VICTIM/WITNESS Assistance Program of the District Attorney’s Office. A victim/witness advocate can explain the process and address your concerns. More...

5. How can I lodge a complaint against your office?: You may send an e-mail to dainfo@co.merced.ca.us or write a letter and mail it to Merced County District Attorney’s Office at 2222 “M” Street, Merced, CA 95340. E-mail our office

6. How can I file a complaint involving another law enforcement agency?: Complaints against a law enforcement agency should be directed to the particular agency which is the subject of the complaint.

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Elections - Passports

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1. How much does a United States passport cost?: The cost of your U.S. passport will depend on the type of passport you request and how quickly you need it. See Passport Fees for more information on the cost of a U.S. passport book or a U.S. passport card and all associated services.

2. How long does it take to get a passport?: Processing times vary depending on the time of year. See Application Processing Times for more information.

3. May I pay passport fee with Debt/Credit card?: No, Passport fees must be paid in check or money order only. Execution/office processing fees must be paid in cash only.

4. May a passport book or card issued to a minor (Under age 16) be renewed?: No, If your child is under age 16, he or she must appear in person with you and the child's other parent or guardian to apply. A child's application must be submitted in person at a passport agency or authorized passport application acceptance facility. It cannot be renewed by mail. Appointment needed.

5. Who do I make my Check or Money order out to?: Checks or money orders are to be made out to US Department of State.

6. What the difference between a passport book and a passport card?: The biggest difference between a passport book and passport card is that passport cards can only be used at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry.

7. What if I have an emergency and need to leave right now?

Life-or-death emergencies are serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family (parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, and grandparent) that require you to travel outside the United States within 72 hours (3 business days).

How to Contact:

1-877-487-2778/ 1-888-874-7793 (TTY/TDD) Monday- Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Time, except federal holidays.
202-647-4000 outside of the hours listed above

You must provide:

A passport application with supporting documents
Proof of the life-or-death emergency such as a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary, or a signed letter from a hospital or medical professional. Documents must be in English or translated in English.
Proof of international travel (itinerary, ticket, reservation) specific to the emergency

8. I changed my name recently or my name has been misspelling how can I get that fixed?

If you are changing your name within one year of the date your passport was issued, you will need to complete Form DS-5504: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Book Replacement.

If you are changing your name more than a year after your passport was issued, you must submit Form DS-82: Renewal Application. Fee required

9. I need a passport for my child and I have full/sole custody can I still get them a passport?: Yes, if you have full custody both parents are not needed to apply for a passport. However, you will need to provide court documentation proving that you do have full custody of the child.

10. I need a passport for my child but I do NOT have full/sole custody can I still get them a passport?

No, if you do not have full custody of the child you must receive permission from the other parent/guardian. The other parent/guardian must either attend the appointment or fill out form DS-3053: Statement of Consent: Issuance of a U.S. Passport to a minor under age 16.

If you are unable to reach or get in contact with the other parent/guardian you must fill out form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special family circumstances for issuance of a U.S. Passport to minor under age 16.

11. I am the only parent/guardian on my child’s birth certificate do I still need the other parent/guardian to get a passport for my child?: No, if you are the only parent/guardian on the child’s birth certificate you do not need the other parent/guardian to apply for a passport for your child.

12. How do I get the status of my application?: You can check your status online using our Online Passport Status System. It may take up to 6 weeks from the day you apply until your application status is “In Process.” During these 6 weeks, your application is delivered to a mail facility, your payment is processed, and your application is scanned and sent to us. If your passport status update says “Not Available,” your application and supporting documents are safely on their way to us.

13. I got a letter in the mail or an email about my application. What should I do?: A letter or email was sent to you because more information is needed before continuing the processing of your passport. The letters and emails all have specialized instructions for your case that you should follow. If you’re having a hard time understanding what it means, Respond to a Letter or Email might be able to help you.

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Elections - Remote Accessible Vote by Mail

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1. What is Remote Accessible Vote by Mail?: Remote Accessible Vote by Mail (RAVBM) is a system that allows voters with disabilities to download and mark their ballot privately and independently using their own assistive technology, print their marked ballot, and return to the Elections Office to be counted.

2. How can I request an RAVBM?

Email a completed Remote Accessible Vote by Mail application to elections@countyofmerced.com, or mail the completed application to:

Merced County Elections
2222 M Street
Merced, CA 95340

3. How do I use the RAVBM system?: Once you have requested your RAVBM ballot, you will receive a Voter Access Code by email, which will include the link for this service. You will then mark the ballot using your own assistive technology if needed, review your ballot, download and print. Before submitting, you must place the printed ballot in an envelope, and sign your name.

4. How can I submit my RAVBM ballot once I have voted?: Marked ballots must be printed and returned to Merced County Elections office by mail or in person. You may also submit by dropping your ballot in any drop box in Merced County or any vote center. Ballots CANNOT be submitted via email.

5. Is my vote kept private if I use an RAVBM ballot?: Yes, to preserve your privacy and security, your ballot selections are not transmitted through the internet. Even when marking your ballot online, it is not considered “internet voting,” so you can be sure that your private and independent ballot remains secure from marking to counting.

6. When can I access my RAVBM ballot?: Generally, voters will be allowed access to their RAVBM ballots up to one month before Election Day.

7. What is the deadline for returning my marked RAVBM ballot?: Like regular vote-by-mail ballots, RAVBM ballots must be received by county elections officials by the close of polls (8:00 PM) on Election Day. However late RAVBM ballots will still be counted even if received up to three days after Election Day, so long as the envelope containing the RAVBM ballot is postmarked on or before Election Day.

8. Is the RAVBM system available to military and overseas voters?: Yes, military or overseas voters may use an RAVBM ballot instead of using a paper Vote by Mail ballot.

9. Can I still use RAVBM if I cannot sign the envelope (or declaration)?: Yes. If you are a voter with a disability who has difficulty signing your name, you can make a “mark” on the envelope and have someone “witness” your mark. Your mark should be distinctive, but can be as simple as an “X”. The person assisting you and witnessing your mark should then write their name and “witness” nearby.

10. I am unable to make a “mark”. Can I still vote using RAVBM?: Yes. You will need a signature stamp to place your signature on your RAVBM envelope or declaration. You can authorize someone to design the signature that you will use for your stamp. However, once you have your signature stamp, you will need to re-register using your stamp in the presence of a county election official, if you have not done so already. When using your stamp on your RAVBM envelope or declaration, remember to have someone “witness” your stamp as described above.

11. What happens if my county rejects my signature, “mark”, or stamp?: If your signature if rejected, Merced County election officials will send you notice and materials to verify your signature within one to two weeks. A written declaration will be included in those materials. Sign the declaration (following the same “witness” procedure described above if needed) and return to the election’s office. This will “cure” your signature mismatch.

12. Any other questions?: Please email elections@countyofmerced.com, call (209)385-7541, or fax (209)385-7387.

13. Watch a Video for More Information about RAVBM

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Elections - Voter Registration

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1. Who can register to vote?

To register to vote in California, you must be:

A United States citizen and a resident of California,
18 years old or older on Election Day,
Not currently serving a state or federal prison term for the conviction of a felony (for more information, please see Voting Rights: Persons with a Criminal History), and
Not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court (for more information, please see Voting Rights: Persons Subject to Conservatorship).

2. Who can pre-register to vote?

To pre-register to vote in California, you must:

Be 16 or 17 years old, and
Meet all of the other requirements to vote

You will automatically be registered to vote on your 18th birthday.

3. How do I register to vote?: You may submit your voter registration application online at RegisterToVote.ca.gov. You can also pick up a paper application at your county elections office, any Department of Motor Vehicles field office, and many post offices. To have an application mailed to you, call your county elections office or the Secretary of State's toll-free Voter Hotline at (800) 345-VOTE (8683).

4. What is the deadline to register to vote?: The deadline to register to vote is 15 days prior to Election Day, often called E-15. You must submit the voter registration application by midnight on the registration deadline day. A timestamp will be attached to your online voter registration application. If you register to vote using a paper application, it must be postmarked or hand-delivered to your county elections office by E-15.

5. I have just moved. Am I required to re-register?: Your voter registration should always reflect your current residence. However, if you have moved from your home into a temporary residence that you do not intend to use as your permanent residence, you can continue to use your prior permanent residence where you were previously registered to vote as your address for the purpose of voting.

6. I did not vote in the last election. Do I need to re-register?: In general, you do not need to re-register because you are registered to vote for as long as you remain at the same address. However, there are cases in which voter registration can be cancelled if a voter has not voted in several consecutive general elections.

7. Do I have to be registered to vote in order to register other voters?: No, you do not need to be a registered voter in order to register other people to vote.

8. I registered at the Department of Motor Vehicles, but my county elections office says I'm not registered. What can I do?: Contact your county elections official and provide them with any documentation you may have to help establish when and where you registered. In many cases your county elections official may be able to verify the potential registration through the Department of Motor Vehicles.

9. Where do I send my voter registration form after I fill it out?: If you have downloaded a voter registration form from the Secretary of State's web page, it will be pre-addressed to go to your county elections official for quicker processing. Statewide forms are sent to the Secretary of State's office, which in turn must forward them to the appropriate county elections official.

10. How many voter registration affidavits can I get if I want to register people in my community?: There is no limit to the number of voter registration affidavits a person may obtain. However, depending on the number of cards the Secretary of State or a county elections official has on hand and the volume of requests they are receiving, the Secretary of State and county elections officials may ask a requestor to take fewer cards than they asked for and to return later should they need additional cards. The Secretary of State does require the requester to complete a Voter Registration Card Statement of Distribution form and a county elections official may require a person who requests cards from their office to do something similar.

11. How can I cancel my California voter registration?: To cancel your voter registration, you must contact your county elections office.

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Elections - Voting

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1. What is the Voter's Choice Act?

The California Voter’s Choice Act is a new law passed in 2016 that will modernize elections in California by allowing counties to conduct elections under a new model which provides greater flexibility and convenience for voters.

This new election model allows voters to choose how, when, and where to cast their ballot by:

Mailing every voter a ballot
Expanding in-person early voting
Allowing voters to cast a ballot at any vote center within their county

2. What are Voting Assistance Centers?

Traditional polling places will be replaced by Voting Assistance Centers. Voters will have the freedom to cast a ballot in-person at any Voting Assistance Centers in their county instead of being tied to a single polling location. Voting Assistance Centers look and feel like polling places, but provide additional modern features to make voting easy and convenient.

At any Voting Assistance Centers in a participating county, a voter may:

Vote in-person
Drop off their ballot
Get a replacement ballot
Vote using an accessible voting machine
Get help and voting material in multiple languages
Register to vote or update their voter registration

3. How can I vote a Vote by Mail ballot?

Any registered voter may apply for a "Vote by Mail" ballot by:

Completing the vote-by-mail ballot application that is included in your county voter information guide, which your county elections official will mail to you prior to each election,
Downloading and completing a California Vote-By-Mail Ballot Application from our website, or
Contacting your county elections official to see if you can apply by telephone.

4. When may I apply for a Vote by Mail ballot?: You must apply for a vote-by-mail ballot at least 7 days before an election.

5. When is the last day to return my voted Vote by Mail ballot?: Vote by Mail ballots must be received by the elections official no later than the close of polls at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

6. How do I turn in my Vote by Mail ballot on Election Day?: You may return it in person to any polling place in your county or to the county elections office on Election Day. If, because of illness or physical disability, you are unable to return the ballot yourself, you may designate a spouse, child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, or a person residing in the same household to return the ballot to the elections official or any Voting Assistance Center. The ballot must be received before the close of the polls at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day in order to be counted.

7. Can anyone distribute Vote by Mail ballot applications?: People and organizations may distribute Vote by Mail ballot applications, provided they use the uniform format specified in the California Elections Code and submit a Vote-By-Mail Voting Application form.

8. Why am I in a mail ballot (Vote by Mail) precinct?: Elections Code section 3005 provides that people who live in precincts with fewer than 250 voters may be sent Vote by Mail ballots.

Upon receiving a Vote by Mail ballot, all you need to do is vote for the contests on the ballot, provide the required information, and mail the voted ballot back to your county elections office. It must be received in your county elections office by the close of the polls at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day.

If you cannot mail your voted Vote by Mail ballot to your county elections office, you can cast your voted ballot at any Voting Assistance Center in your county by the close of the polls at 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. To determine the location of a nearby Voting Assistance Centers, you can contact your county elections official.

9. Is there a toll-free telephone number I can call regarding voter information?: Yes. The Secretary of State has established a toll-free hotline for requests for voter registration forms and other election materials and to report suspicions of voting or registration irregularities. The number is (800) 345-VOTE.

10. What can be done to increase voter participation?: The Secretary of State's office has been working with a wide range of groups throughout the state to increase voter participation. They are always looking for better ways to reach out and engage citizens in the voting process. Their Voter Education and Outreach web page will provide you with information on some of the programs and events they are currently working on.

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Environmental Health

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1. Can I pay my Environmental Health fee online?: Yes you can. "Official Payments Corp." is the service Merced County uses to manage online payment. Learn More...

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First 5

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1. What does First 5 Merced County do?: First 5 Merced County funds a variety of programs that serve children 0-5 years old and their families, such as quality child care and preschool, developmental screening and parenting programs. For more information, contact First 5 at 209-385-7337.

2. How do I enroll my child into one of your programs?: The best way to enroll your child or learn more information is to contact the program directly. They will work with you to get you connected to services that best meet your needs. See our funded programs.

3. How can I find childcare?: Contact ACCESS Child Care Resource and Referral at the Merced County Office of Education at (209) 381-6793 extension 6111. They provide resources and referrals to licensed child care and can provide tips on what to look for when selecting high quality child care.

4. How do enroll my child into preschool?: Contact ACCESS Child Care Resource and Referral at the Merced County Office of Education at (209) 381-6793 extension 6111. They provide resources for preschool services and can provide tips on what to look for when selecting high quality preschool.

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First 5 Merced County

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1. How does an agency apply for funding?: Funding is available through the Mini-Grants Program and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are also solicited every three years.
More information is available at the First 5 Merced County website. First 5 Merced County website

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General Plan Update

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1. What is a General Plan?: The General Plan acts as the constitution for guiding decisions on growth and development. It expresses the County’s vision for the future and incorporates public policy relative to the distribution of future public and private land uses.

2. What's covered in a General Plan?

The General Plan comprises goals, policies, and implementation programs based on the current and future needs and available resources. Once adopted, the Plan becomes the principal tool for the County to evaluate public and private development projects and infrastructure improvements.

State law requires that "each county and city have an adopted General Plan for the physical development within its jurisdiction and any land outside its boundaries which bears relation to its planning”. The General Plan is presented as a collection of chapters, or elements, of which seven are mandatory:

Land use
Circulation
Housing
Conservation
Open space
Noise
Safety

In addition to these mandated elements, the County will adopt two other elements:

Agriculture
Economic development

3. What is the General Plan's relationship to zoning?: The General Plan is the overarching policy guide for the County. The zoning ordinance is the primary tool used to implement General Plan policies. In contrast to the long-term outlook of the General Plan, zoning classifies the specific, immediate uses of land. The success of a General Plan, and in particular the land use element, rests in part upon the effectiveness of a consistent zoning ordinance that translates long-term policies into everyday decisions (OPR, 2003). For more information on zoning, please view A Citizen's Guide to Planning.

4. Why is an update needed?: The last comprehensive update to the Merced County General Plan was completed in 1990. The current plan has outdated information, assumptions, and projections. General Plans typically look 15-25 years into the future. This process also provides a chance for the community to evaluate the existing plan, current trends and issues, and update policies where necessary in order to adequately meet the future needs of the County.

5. How does the General Plan affect development?: The General Plan establishes policies for regulating new development projects within the unincorporated portions of the County. These policies are then translated into implementation tools (such as the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and design guidelines) to assure that the County's vision is implemented. It also serves as a policy guide for how the county will interact with the six cities within the county regarding their growth and future expansion plans.

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Grand Jury

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1. What is the Grand Jury?: The Merced County Civil Grand Jury is an independent investigative body created by the California State Constitution. Composed of 19 citizens,the Merced County Civil Grand Jury serves as a watchdog for the citizens of the county.

2. How do I file a Grand Jury complaint?

To file a Citizen's Complaint with the Merced County Grand Jury, please do the following:

Print out the complaint form

Fill in the information on the complaint form as completely as possible

Mail the complaint to:
Merced County Grand Jury
P.O. Box 2034
Merced, CA 95344
Ph: (209) 777-2516

3. Who serves on the Grand Jury?

Merced County residents who are interested in participating in the Grand Jury process are encouraged to apply.

The statutory requirements are that each Grand Juror:

Be a citizen of the United States

Be at lease 18 years of age

Reside in Merced County for at least one year before being selected

Have ordinary intelligence and good character

Possess a working knowledge of the English language

Not presently be serving as a trial juror

Not have been a Grand Juror within one year of being selected (jurors may be held over for a second year)

Not have been convicted of a felony or malfeasance in the office

Not presently be serving as an elected official

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Health Department

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1. Are interpreters available for clients?: Yes, we provide interpreters for the Spanish, Hmong, and Punjabi speaking clients if needed.

2. Where can I get medical care if I don't have insurance?: Covered California: www.covered.com (800) 300-1506
Merced County Human Services Agency: 2115 W. Wardrobe Ave. Merced, CA 95341 (209) 385-3000
MAP program: Medical Assistance Program (MAP) 260 E. 15th St. Merced, CA 95341 (209) 381-1282
CCS program: California Children Services, 260 E. 15th St. Merced, CA 95341 - Ph: (209) 381-1114
CHDP program: Child Health and Disability Prevention- 260 E. 15th St. Merced, CA 95341 - Ph: (209) 381-1125
MCH programs: Maternal / Child Health 260 E. 15th St. Merced, CA 95341 - Ph: (209) 381-1141 or (209) 381-1138
Medi-Cal Applications
Covered California Applications

3. How do I get applications for medical assistance program, if I don't have insurance?: Applications are taken at the Eligibility Office, located at:
Merced County Human Services Agency: 2115 W. Wardrobe Ave. Merced, CA 95341
Merced County Health Department: 260 E. 15th St. Merced, CA 95341
More...

4. Where do I go to get birth certificates or a death certificate?: Birth records and death certificates will be maintained at Merced County Public Health Department for current year and previous year. All other years are maintained at Merced County Recorder’s Office.
More...

5. Who do I call if I think I have food poisoning from a restaurant or local event?: The Merced County Division of Environmental Health deals with routine inspections, foodborne illness investigations and complaint investigations, for any facility that serves food to the public. These facilities include restaurants, school cafeterias, grocery stores, mini-marts, lunch trucks, and special events.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Division of Environmental Health at (209) 381-1100.

6. Who will test my well water?: For more information, contact the Division of Environmental Health at (209) 381-1100.

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Human Resources

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1. Where do I go to find out about current jobs at the County?: To find out about current jobs, look at our Employment OpportunitiesEmployment Opportunities.

2. What is an interest card?

A interest card is a way for an applicant to be automatically notified when the recruitment for a certain job classification opens up.

An interest card can be filled out two ways:

The applicant can go to the specific job description for the position they are interested in and click email me when jobs like this become available.
The applicant can go to jobs available and click on request job notifications by category link.

3. Why does a supplemental questionnaire have to be completed when I turn in my application?: If a supplemental questionnaire is required for the recruitment you are applying for, it must be attached to your application for the application to be considered complete.
The supplemental questionnaire is used to obtain specific details regarding your job skills, knowledge, and experience that will directly relate to the current opening. The information provided by the applicant is used as a screening tool to evaluate the candidate’s overall job related skills. Therefore, it is recommended each candidate provide as much detailed information as possible when answering the supplemental questions as this will assist in the evaluation process.

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Human Services Agency

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1. How do I get a job at HSA?: Job postings and applications for the Merced County HSA can be found online through Merit Systems.

2. How do I report child abuse?: Our child abuse hotline at (209) 385-3104 is available all day, every day (24/7).

3. How do I apply for Benefits?

To apply for benefits, here are four ways to assist you.

Para solicitar beneficios, aqui hay cuatro maneras de ayudarlo.

BenefitsCal

4. How do I report elder abuse?: Our elder abuse hotline at (209) 385-3105 is available every day, all day (24/7).

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Indigent Health Care - Emergency Medical Services Appropriation

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1. Where are services provided?: Services are usually provided at the emergency room. However, outpatient services also qualify if they were performed within 48 hours as a result of the emergency room visit at either of the two hospital emergency rooms within Merced County.

2. What is the program for?: Emergency Medical Services Appropriation is for qualified emergency room services and for the first 48 hours of emergency medical services following the visit to an emergency room for an indigent person not covered under any other programs.

3. How much time do I have to submit a claim?: You have until November 1 following the end of the fiscal year (ending June 30) or until funds are exhausted, whichever comes first.

4. How much will the program reimburse?: SB941 legislation made it a requirement that counties adopt a fee schedule. Effective January 1, 206, claims are paid based on the Medi-Cal fee schedule. Medi-Cal website

5. How do I apply when i am not a regular provider of Indigent Health Care services?: Payment will be made after the provider information isr eceived. Claims are paid on a first-come, first-served basis. After funds are gone, claims will be diverted to the Maddy Program for consideration. You must send an original provider W-9 and the Provider Information Form with the first claim. Maddy Program

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Library

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1. Can I reserve a computer by phone?: The library does not accept phone reservations for computers. You must be present to schedule your own time for the day of use and the time slots available that day. Access to public computers is on an in-person, first-come, first-served basis. Additional Information

2. How do I get a library card?: Any adult with proper photo identification and proof of current address can qualify for a Merced County Library Card. A parent or legal guardian with proper identification and proof of current address can register their child or a child in their care for a library card, but the child must be present. Read More.

3. How old does a child have to be to qualify for a library card?: Parent or guardians may use their cards to check out items for infants and toddlers. Parents or guardians of children may apply for their child's library card, but the child must be present to receive the card.

4. What are the library locations and what are their hours?: Library branch locations and hours of operation are available online at our library webpage.

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Medical Therapy Program

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1. What is occupational therapy (OT): OT is therapy provided for the main purpose of improving self-help skills or Activities of Daily Living (ADL). OT uses many ways to improve the dysfunction that causes impairment in ADLs, such as playing with play dough to increase finger strength to allow a child to be able to manage snaps on pants.
The therapy is provided by a trained Occupational Therapist who has at least received a Bachelors degree, graduated from an approved School of Occupational Therapy, and has a license from the State of California to provide Occupational Therapy.

2. What is physical therapy (PT)?: PT is therapy provided for the main purpose of improving mobility and ambulation. PT may provide exercises on a large ball to increase trunk control and overall strength to allow a child to walk either unassisted or with crutches.
The therapy is provided by a trained Physical Therapist who has at least received a Bachelors degree, graduated from an approved School of Physical Therapy, and has a license from the State of California to provide Physical Therapy.

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Planning

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1. How do I check the status of my application?: You can check the status of your application online using our Online Application Tracking Tool.

2. What are the fees for submitting an application for a land use permit?: The fees for processing applications may be found online here.

3. How do I obtain information about Building Permits?: Please contact the Public Works Building and Safety Division at (209)385-7477 or online at the Building and Safety Division webpage.

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Planning - Cannabis FAQs

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1. Can I grow marijuana plants in Merced County?

Merced County allows residence in the unincorporated areas to grow a maximum of six plants for personal use, including both mature and premature plants. All growing of plants much be conducted INDOORS.

Merced County defines “indoors” as a fully enclosed and secure structure. It must be secured by lock and key or other security device which prevents unauthorized entry and is inaccessible to minors.

2. Can I grow marijuana outdoors?

Merced County prohibits ALL outdoor grow of Cannabis.

Refer to Question 1.

3. What is the maximum number of plants I can grow for personal use?: Merced County allows a maximum of six plants for personal use.

4. Can I have a cannabis dispensary in Merced County?: No. All Commercial cannabis activity in Merced County is prohibited.

5. Can I have a cannabis distribution, manufacturing, or testing facility in Merced County?: No. All Commercial cannabis activity in Merced County is prohibited.

6. Can I deliver cannabis in Merced County?: Medical cannabis products may be delivered to patients who reside within the unincorporated area of Merced County. Deliveries must be made by an employee of a retail dispensary located in a legal jurisdiction. The dispensary must posses a CA State M10 license and a Merced County Business License prior to deliveries.

7. How do I get a business license for cannabis in Merced County?: An applicant may apply for a Merced County Business License after they have been issued a CA State M10 License.

8. How do I get my permit for a dispensary?: Applicants must contact the local jurisdiction in which the retail location will be located for information pertaining to permitting in that jurisdiction. Merced County currently prohibits all commercial activity.

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Probation - Adult Probation

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1. I'm on Probation - what does that mean? What do I have to do?

Let's start at the basics – What is probation? Probation is a suspended state prison or county jail sentence. In other words, instead of being incarcerated, you have been given an opportunity to go back to your community provided you follow some specific conditions. All probation sentences are different; however, there are some standard conditions that apply to most if not all persons placed on probation.

You need to contact the Probation Department as soon as you are released from custody. If you are released after 5:00pm, please contact the department the next day. The Adult Probation Offices open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:30 PM.
When you contact the Probation Department, you will need to provide our support staff with your full name and date of birth. Our support staff will be able to give you the name and phone number of your assigned probation officer.
Your probation officer will schedule an appointment to meet with you. Please, make sure to keep your appointment and be on time. If you cannot make your appointment, you must call the day before to re-schedule.
Stay out of trouble! There are many challenges and difficulties getting your life back together, but if you need help or support, call your probation officer before you do something that may put you back in jail.

2. How do I find out who my Probation Officer (PO) is?: The Court usually instructs a defendant to report to the Probation Department after being sentenced or released from jail. This means that a defendant will often be reporting to the Probation Department before a probation officer has been assigned. When a defendant reports after court they will complete the paperwork required to set up their probation case with an intake probation officer. Normally within two weeks, the defendant will be contacted by their new supervision officer. If after about two weeks, there has been no contact from the probation officer, the defendant should contact the Probation Department. There are occasionally circumstances that may cause case assignment to be delayed.

3. Where are the Adult Probation offices located?

Adult Probation Office
3191 M Street
Merced, CA 95348

Trident Center
777 West 22nd Street
Merced, CA 95341

Los Banos Office
445 I Street
Merced, CA 93635

4. Can I transfer my case to another county for supervision?

You must complete all custody time before having your case transferred to another county. Before the transfer-out process can begin, your probation officer will request the following item(s) from you:

Proof of residence (utility bill or rental agreement)

Once these items are received, you will be notified by a probation officer that your case is in the process of being transferred to another county. You may be required to appear in court for a 1203.9 transfer hearing; however, you will be notified prior to the court date. You must continue to follow your terms and conditions of probation and check in with your probation officer in Merced County as directed until you are notified that your case has been successfully transferred.

5. Can I transfer my case to another state for supervision?: All custody time must be fulfilled, and specific documents must be provided to the Probation Department to begin the transfer process. A defendant must remain in California (unless you were a resident of that state at the time of your arrest in Merced County). Anyone who wishes to move permanently to a different state must complete an application for probation supervision under Interstate Compact. Only when the application has been approved by both the sending and receiving states will the defendant be given permission to move permanently.

6. Can I travel out of county or state while on supervision?: Travel restrictions vary based on specific circumstances and the type of supervision. Contact your probation officer with questions about out of county travel. Out of state travel will require a travel permit issued by the Court, submitted at least 2 weeks before your date of travel.

7. My probation expired, now what?: Your probation case will be closed and you no longer need to check in. You may not receive notification from the Probation Department regarding your case being expired and closed. If you are unsure if your probation is expired you may contact Probation Department or the Court.

8. A warrant has been issued for me; Is there any way I can clear it?: If you are under regular supervision, contact your attorney, contact the Court that issued the warrant, or turn yourself into a local law enforcement agency or Probation Department. It is important to resolve the outstanding issue as soon as possible. If you have any questions, contact your Probation Officer.

9. Can my probation be terminated early?: Convictions for certain crimes require a minimum period of time on probation. A person on probation who wishes to have their case considered for early termination should contact their attorney. If they are eligible they can request that a court hearing be scheduled. Typically to be considered by the Court, the defendant must have completed at least half of their court-ordered probation period, completed all requirements of probation such as treatment programs and community service work, have all fines, fees and restitution paid in full and not have any negative law enforcement contact for a period of at least one year.

10. Can I vote while on probation?: Yes, please see the “Voting Rights: Persons with a Criminal History” from the California Secretary of State for more details.

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Probation - Juvenile Facility

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1. My Child was arrested and taken into custody in Merced County, where was my child taken?

A youth arrested and taken into custody in Merced County is taken to the Iris Garret Juvenile Justice Complex, located at:

2840 W. Sandy Mush Rd.
Merced CA, 95340

2. How do I contact my child?

We encourage you to write to your child while they are housed in our facility. Youth may receive an unlimited amount of incoming mail. All letters and cards must go through the United States Postal Service. Please remember to include a complete return address. Youth may not receive mail from other jails, prisons, or juvenile facilities or individuals whom the court has specifically ordered them not to associate with.

All mail is opened and inspected for contraband; any inappropriate letters will be returned to sender. Envelopes with extraneous figures, markings, or writing will be returned to sender. Please address the envelope as follows:

{Youth's Full Name}
2840 W. Sandy Mush Rd.
Merced, CA 95340

3. How do I call my child?: Parents, guardians, or persons standing in loco parentis will need to set up an account with the telephone service provider. Pamphlets are available in the visiting lobby for the telephone provider GTL.

4. What educational services are provided to my child?: The Merced County Office of Education operates a fully accredited year-round school with full time teachers. Your child will attend school Monday through Friday and have the ability to earn a high school diploma while in custody.

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Probation - Juvenile Probation

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1. What happens if I get cited/arrested by the Police?

All youth who are cited/arrested by law enforcement agencies are referred to the Probation Department, either by the issuing of a citation or by booking into the Juvenile Facility. A Deputy Probation Officer will assess whether youth arrested for a suspected law violation should be disposed by counseling and releasing the youth, referring the youth and/or family to a community counseling agency, placing the youth on informal probation or referring to the District Attorney to request a petition be filed with the court.

For more information, please refer to the Juvenile Justice Process Map (PDF).

2. What happens if my case is sent to court?

When the District Attorney has filed a petition with the Court and the Court has found the youth to be responsible for committing a violation of the law, a Deputy Probation Officer is assigned to investigate the circumstances of the case. The Probation Officer’s investigation consists of a thorough review of all available information, interviews with concerned parties, careful evaluation of all relevant circumstances, assessment of risk for future delinquency, responsivity factors, family dynamics, peer relationships, academic history, and the youth’s prior and current activities in the community.

Recommendations in Juvenile Court range from release to parents, incarceration in the Juvenile Facility, removal from parental custody for placement in foster care, or a commitment to the Division of Juvenile Justice. Juvenile recommendations also center around a grant of probation or informal handling with a plan to be effective in rehabilitation.

3. I was placed on probation through the Juvenile Court, what can I expect?

Youth assigned to Juvenile Community Supervision have access to and are often referred to a wide variety of no-cost programs and services aimed at youth appropriate, targeted interventions that provide positive reinforcements to limit and/or eliminate contact with the justice system altogether. Deputy Probation Officers are also trained to recognize and identify signs of trauma and sex-exploitation, and to connect youth to appropriate levels of service, by need.

Furthermore, as required by statue, Deputy Probation Officers are an extension of the court and thus monitor compliance with court-ordered probation conditions, by working with the youth in a variety of supports and roles, such as, counselor, advocate, mentor and/or life coach.

4. How do I seal my records?

If you were arrested or involved in a court case or had contact with the juvenile justice system when you were under 18, the courts, police, schools, or other public agencies may have records about what you did. An application for record sealing can be picked up at the Merced County Juvenile Probation Office located at 1880 Wardrobe Avenue, Merced, California 95341 or by following the link below. Once the completed application for record sealing is submitted to the Probation Department, an investigation is conducted following strict guidelines; which, can take up to eight (8) weeks to complete.

The Probation Department will then submit a petition to the court. The court will review the petition and any evidence presented by the petitioner, the Probation Department, the District Attorney, any agencies listed on your petition, or anyone else who has relevant information. After the court reviews all of the information, the judge will decide whether to grant or deny the petition.

For additional information regarding Record Sealings please visit Record Sealing.

5. How do I apply for stepparent adoption?

A stepparent adoption is initiated when an adult files a petition in the county which they reside to adopt the child of their spouse or domestic partner. During the stepparent adoption process, a stepparent investigation report is written and submitted to the Court. It consists of declarations by the birth parent and the spouse or partner who is petitioning to adopt. A stepparent adoption intake packet can be picked up at the Merced County Juvenile Probation Office located at 1880 Wardrobe Avenue, Merced, California 95341 or by following the link below.

For additional information regarding Stepparent Adoption please visit Stepparent Adoption.

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Public Defender

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1. How can I find out if I have a warrant for my arrest?: You can contact Merced County Superior Court at (209) 725-4113, or contact our office at (209) 385-7692 in Merced or (209) 710-6030 in Los Banos.

2. When is my court date?: For court date information, you may contact Merced County Superior Court at (209) 725-4113, or the County Public Defender at (209) 385-7692 for Merced or (209) 710-6030 for Los Banos.

3. Who is my attorney?: For information regarding your attorney please call Merced County Public Defenders Office at (209) 385-7692 for Merced or (209) 710-6030 for Los Banos.

4. How can I clear my warrant?: If you have a misdemeanor warrant you can clear it two ways.
1) You can go to the Merced County Sheriff Department at 700 W. 22nd Street, Merced and ask for the records division. You must tell them you have a warrant and would like to be cited out. Depending on the warrant they will give you a ticket with a new court date. We will not be in court with you for this appearance. If they will not cite you out, they will give you the walk in information.
2) You can go the Merced County Superior Court, Criminal Division at 2260 N Street, in Merced, Monday thru Thursday between 7:45 and 8:15 a.m. and Los Banos Criminal Division Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday at 8:00 a.m. and ask to have your case placed on the calendar. They will send you to a courtroom and you will need to explain to the judge why you failed to appear. We will not be in court with you for this appearance.
If you have a felony warrant and you have not entered a felony plea or been held to answer on a felony case, you may do a walk in to the Merced County Superior Court, Criminal Division, or Los Banos Criminal Division as listed above.
If you have a felony warrant and you have entered a felony plea or have held to answer you must contact your attorney to place you back on the court calendar.

5. When can I see my attorney?

Merced Misdemeanor office appointments are on a walk in basis:
Wednesday – 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. and Thursday – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Los Banos Misdemeanor office appointments are on a walk in basis:
Monday – 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Merced Felony office appointments depend on the attorney assigned to your case, you will need to contact our office at 209 385-7692.

Los Banos Felony office appointments are Thursday, and you will need to call 209 710-7030 to schedule an appointment.

6. What is a contract attorney?: A contract attorney is assigned to your case when our office cannot handle your case because of a conflict. You will need to contact the contract office at (209) 722-7034 for attorney information.

7. How can I seal my record?: To seal a juvenile record you must contact the Merced County Probation Department, at 209 385-7494. Not all juvenile records can be sealed.
An adult record cannot be sealed, to file a dismissal or 1203.4 petition you may come into our office on Wednesday 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. We will petition the court for a dismissal, the fee is $111.00 per case.
More...

8. I have been sent to collections on a traffic matter.: Access the Lockout Motion from the Public Defender's website under the heading forms or come to the public defender's office and pick up the motion to get yourself back on the traffic calendar in order to get back in front of the traffic hearing judge.

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Public Health - Bioterrorism - Anthrax

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1. What is anthrax?: Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium bacillus anthracis. It most commonly occurs in mammals such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and antelopes, but can occur in humans when they are exposed to infected animals or tissue from infected animals.

2. How common is anthrax and who can get it?: Anthrax is most common in agricultural regions where it occurs in animals. Humans infected with anthrax usually have been exposed to infected animals or their products through their occupations. Workers who are exposed to dead animals and animal products from other countries where anthrax is more common may become infected with bacillus anthracis.

3. How is anthrax transmitted?: Anthrax infection can occur in three forms: cutaneous (skin), inhalation, and gastrointestinal. Spores can live in the soil for years and humans can become infected with anthrax by handling products from infected animals or by inhaling anthrax spores from contaminated animal products. Eating undercooked meat from infected animals also can spread the disease. It is rare to find infected animals in the United States.

4. What are the symptoms of anthrax?

Cutaneous: About 95% of anthrax infections occur when the bacterium enters a cut or abraison on the skin, such as when handling contaminated wool, hides, leather, or hair products of infected animals.

Inhalation: Initial symptoms may resemble a common cold, but lead to severe breathing problems and shock after several days.

Intestinal: This form of anthrax may follow the consumption of contaminated meat and is characterized by an acute inflammation of the intestinal tract.

5. Where is anthrax usually found?: Anthrax is global. It is more common in developing countries or countries without veterinary public health programs. Certain regions of the world (South and Central America, Southern and Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Middle East)report more anthrax in animals than elsewhere.

6. Can anthrax be spread from person to person?: Direct, person-to-person spread of anthrax is extremely unlikely. It is not contagious.

7. Is there a treatment for anthrax?: Doctors can prescribe effective antibiotics. To be effective, treatment should be initiated early. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal.

8. Is there a way to prevent infection?: In countries where anthrax is common and vaccination levels of animal herds are low, humans should avoid contact with livestock and animal products and not eat meat that has not been properly prepared. An anthrax vaccine has been licensed for humans. It is reported to be 93% effective.

9. What is anthrax vaccine?: It is a cell-free filtrate vaccine, which means it contains no dead or live bacteria in the preparation. Anthrax vaccines intended for animals should not be used in humans.

10. Who should get vaccinated against anthrax?

The CDCP's advisory committee on immunization practices recommends vaccination for the following:

People who work directly with the organism in the laboratory
People who work with imported animal hides or furs in areas where standards are insufficient to prevent exposure to anthrax spores
People who handle potentially infected animal products in high incidence areas (Incidence is low in the United States)
Military personnel deployed to areas with high risk for exposure to the organism (as when it is used as a biological warfare weapon)

11. Should my doctor prescribe preventative antibiotics against anthrax or other bioterrorist threat diseases?: No unusual illnesses or deaths suggestive of bioterrorism have been reported in California, nor have there been any credible threats of bioterrorism. Therefore, preventive antibiotics are not needed and public health officials do not recommend prescribing them. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to unnecessary harmful side effects and to development of antibiotic resistant organisms.

12. What should I do if I think I have been exposed to anthrax?

REMAIN CALM
Contact the Health Department at (209) 381-1020 during business hours. After hours and on weekends, call the EMS Dispatch Center at (209) 725-7011 and ask for the "on-duty CD staff person." Be sure to tell the CD Investigator the "where, when, what etc. of your possible exposure, and follow their directions.

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Public Health - CCS

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1. Are there any costs to me?: Based on income and health insurance coverage there may be a cost. Ask the CCS office if you have any questions regarding fees or cost.

2. How do I get CCS services?: For more information, contact the California Children Services Program at (209) 381-1114 More...

3. What services does CCS provide?: If your child is eligible, CCS may pay for or provide:
Treatment, such as doctor services, hospital and surgical care, physical therapy and occupational therapy, laboratory tests, X-rays, orthopedic appliances and medical equipment; Medical case management to help get special doctors and care for your child when medically necessary, and referral to other agencies, including public health nursing and regional centers; or a Medical Therapy Program (MTP), which can provide physical therapy and/or occupational therapy in public schools for children
More...

4. How do I apply for CCS?: Fill out a CCS application and return it to your county CCS office. You can get an application from Merced county CCS office or
download from the Referral & Application Process page in CCS web site
Fill out your application carefully so CCS will have all the information they need to see if you qualify

5. What are Eligible Medical Conditions?: Services can be authorized for children and young adults under 21 years of age who have medical eligible conditions.
Medical Condition’s page
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Public Health - CHDP

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1. What services does CHDP provide?: CHDP provides periodic preventive health assessments and services available to eligible children. CHDP provides care coordination to assist families with medical appointment scheduling, transportation, and access to diagnostic and treatment services. At the time of the health assessment, CHDP providers make referrals to:
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition program for children to age five; Dentists for preventative or restorative care, and Medical specialists as necessary; Mental health providers as necessary.
CHDP Professional Brochure

2. What is provided in a CHDP exam?: A CHDP periodic preventive health assessment offers Comprehensive Physical Check-Ups, which consists of:
Growth and Development Check, All Needed Shots, Dental Screening, Vision Screening, Hearing Screening, Nutrition Check-Up, Health Education, Tobacco Education, Test for Anemia, Blood Lead, Urine, TB, and Others as Needed.

3. Who is eligible for CHDP Exam?: Infants, Children, and Teens, who are residents of California, who are
Medi-Cal recipients (including Share of Cost Medi-Cal or Emergency/Pregnancy Medi-Cal) between ages birth and 21, Non-Medi-Cal clients, who meet the income guidelines, between ages birth and 18; The Family Gross Income (FGI) determines the income guidelines. A client’s FGI must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
More...

4. Who provides CHDP exams?: Health assessments may be provided by:
Enrolled private physicians and Community clinics
CHDP Provider List

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Public Health - Child Injury Prevention - Car Seats

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1. Why should I use a child safety seat?: Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death and serious injury among children under the age of 6 in Merced County. Child safety seats protect children during a vehicle collision.

2. Does Health Department offer classes in other languages?: Yes, we offer classes in Spanish, reservations are required. Translation is available upon request in Hmong and Punjabi.

3. Does the Health Department offer classes in other languages?: Yes, we offer classes in Spanish, Hmong, and Punjabi if needed. reservations are required

4. What children need to be in a child safety seat?: Babies and young children must ride in the back seat, properly buckled up in a safety seat or booster until they are at least 8 years old. A child under age 8 who is at least 4’9” tall could wear a safety belt if it fits properly. Infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing child safety seat until they are at least 2 years old. Additionally, all children 6 years of less may not be left alone in a vehicle. The child must be supervised by someone at least age 12.
CA Child Safety Seat Code

5. Who do I call if I have questions about my child's car seat?: Department of Public Health
Ph:(209) 381-1136

6. Why is it important that I know how to properly use my child safety seat?: Child safety seats, when installed properly, save lives. 98% of the child safety seats are installed incorrectly.

7. Why should I talk to Public Health Technicians about my child safety seat?: Public Health Technicians are trained and certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to check and install any child safety seat, they get the most up-to-date information on any seats that are recalled and new laws, and are experts on child safety seats.

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Public Health - Indigent Health Care

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1. How do I apply for the Medical Assistance Program?: Applications are taken at the Eligibility Office, located at:
Merced County Public Health Department
260 E. 15th St.
Merced, CA 95340

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Public Health - MTP

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1. What does the Medical Therapy Program (MTP) offer to clients?: The MTP is a special program within California Children’s Services that provides medically necessary Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) to medically eligible clients 0-21 years of age. There is a separate evaluation by the Medical Therapy Team, which consists of a doctor and therapists who specialize in treating clients with physical disabilities. The team can prescribe medically necessary PT or OT, as well as durable medical equipment and referrals to other needed specialists.

2. What is the medical eligibility criteria for the MTP?: Eligible conditions which would qualify for CCS and the MTP include, but are not limited to: cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injuries, arthrogryposis, and osteogenesis imperfecta.

3. What is Occupational Therapy?: The word occupational comes from the word occupy, such as the activities that occupy one’s daily schedule to take care of yourself. Occupational Therapy (OT) provides therapy that may help a client to be as independent as they can be in such areas as feeding, dressing, cooking, and self care skills

4. What is Physical Therapy?: Physical Therapy (PT) provides therapy that may help a client to be as independent as they can be in such areas as getting around in a wheelchair, walking with or without adaptive equipment, and getting in and out of a wheelchair or a bed. Physical therapy works more on gross motor abilities to assist in the client’s mobility in the home or in the community.

5. What is the parents role in therapy?: Parents play an absolutely essential role in their child’s development because they are ones that live with the child. Therapy does not stop when the treatment ends; that’s just the beginning. The real work takes place at home.

6. What types of therapy do children receive at the MTU?: Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT)

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Public Works - County Surveyor

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1. Are copies of recorded maps available on the County website?: No, copies are available from the County Recorder's Office or from Bedesen-Cardoza and Associates at:
2823 G St
Merced, CA 95340
Ph: (209) 722-8042.

2. What are the County Surveyors checking fees for final maps?

Parcel Map - $635.00
Subdivision Map - $1,626.00 + $35.00 Per Lot.
Record of Survey Map - $437.00

The above fees include up to 3 reviews. Any resubmittals after the initial 3 will be an additional $250.00 each.

3. What items should be included in the submittal package for final map review?

Three copies of the map
Checking fee, with the check made payable to Merced County
Current title report
Lot calculations for all closed figures
Reference deeds and adjoining deeds, if necessary
County Surveyor's checklist for a record of survey or parcel map / subdivision

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Public Works - Fleet Service Management

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1. How do I get a gas card for travel?: For County staff only: Contact Shermaene Roemhildt or Elton Fink at (209) 385-7602.

2. How do I obtain a PIN number?: For County staff only: Contact Shermaene Roemhildt or Elton Fink at (209) 385-7602.

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Public Works - Parks & Recreation

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1. How do I find out if a park facility is available?: To find out if a park facility is available for rent, please call (209) 385-7426 or submit a Reservation Inquiry form.

2. Is there a fee schedule for County Park facility reservations?: Yes, the fee schedule for County Park facility reservations is located on the Facility Fees For Reservations page.

3. Do I need a health permit if I'm providing food at a park facility?: Any time food is being provided to the general public for a fundraiser, a Health Permit may be required. Environmental Health will determine if a permit is needed. A copy of a permit or notification from Environmental Health is required when providing food in such a manner.

4. Do I need a permit to provide, sell, or serve alcohol at a park facility?: Anyone providing, selling, or serving alcoholic beverages must provide the Parks Office with a certificate of insurance that includes the County of Merced as additionally insured for $1,000,000. There may be other requirements but contact the office for specific requirements.

5. What are play apparatus requirements at park facilities?: Anyone wishing to set up a bounce house, dunk tank, water slide, rock wall, sumo wrestling, or other play apparatus at a park or reservation site must provide a certificate of insurance that includes the County of Merced as additionally insured for $1,000,000. Please contact the Park Office for specific requirements.

6. How do I contact the Merced County Superior Court?

Administration - (209) 725-4101
Civil Limited / Small Claims - (209) 725-4109
Criminal Division - (209) 725-4113
Family Law - (209) 725-4117
Jury Commissioner - (209) 725-4121
Traffic Division - (209) 725-4107

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Public Works - Professional Services

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1. How do I obtain copies of Plans & Specs?: Please call our Professional Services Division at (209) 385-7601 to request copies of Plans & Specs.

2. How do I obtain bid results?: Bid results are posted on the County website on the Bid Postings page.

3. How do I obtain a copy of a Plan Holder's list?: Please call our Professional Services Division at (209) 385-7601 to request a copy of a Plan Holder's list.

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Public Works - Roads

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1. How do I report a problem with a County road?: To report a problem with a road located within an unincorporated area of Merced County, please call the Roads Office at (209) 385-7601 or visit the SeeClickFix portal.

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Public Works - Solid Waste

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1. Where can I find rate schedules for the two County landfills?: The Billy Wright Landfill Rate Schedule and the Highway 59 Landfill Rate Schedule can be found on the Solid Waste web pages.

2. Where can I find Merced County refuse disposal contact information?: Merced County refuse disposal contact information can be found on a map located on the Solid Waste web pages.

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Public Works - Street Lights

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1. How do I report a street light outage / problem?: To report a street light outage / problem in an unincorporated area of Merced County, please call Kellie Jacobs at (209) 385-7601 or fill out a Street Light Service Request Form.

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Risk Management

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1. How do I file a Claim against the County?: To file a claim against the County, you may download, fill, and return a Claim Form.

2. What benefits do I have as a Merced County employee?: Health, dental, vision, life, disability, deferred compensation, and retirement pension benefits.

3. How much will my employee benefits cost?: For detailed employee benefit information, please contact Risk Management at (209) 385-7356 (choose option 1).

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Secured Property Taxes

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1. What are “secured” property taxes?: The term “secured” simply means taxes that are assessed against real property (e.g., land or structures). The tax is a lien that is “secured” by the land / structure even though no document was officially recorded. This means that if the taxes remain unpaid after a period of five (5) years, the property may be sold to cover the taxes owed.

2. When is the secured tax assessed?: The Assessor establishes the value of property on January 1. This date is often referred to as the Tax Lien date. The secured property tax bill, issued months later, uses the value established on the tax lien date.

3. How are tax amounts determined?: The January 1 value established by the Assessor is multiplied by the tax rate (usually 1% plus voter approved indebtedness), then special assessments are added. These special assessments are added to the tax bill by local districts and cities, not by the Tax Collector. A sewer assessment is a typical special assessment that is added to a tax bill. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592

4. What period of time does a secured property tax bill cover?: A secured tax bill covers a “fiscal year.” The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends on June 30 of the following calendar year. For more information contact us at 209-385-7592.

5. When should I expect my secured property tax bill?: Every year, the Tax Collector mails the secured tax bills by November 1. If you did not receive a bill, or if you recently purchased a property, you may obtain a duplicate tax bill by calling 209-385-7592 or visiting our office.

6. When are secured property taxes due?: The secured property tax bill is payable in two installments:
1. The first installment is due and payable on November 1. However, you have until 5 p.m. on December 10 to make your payment before a 10% penalty is added to your bill.
2. The second installment is due and payable on February 1. The grace period on the second installment expires at 5 p.m. on April 10. If the installment remains unpaid as of April 10, a 10% penalty and $30 cost is imposed.

7. When should I mail my payment to avoid penalties?: You can mail your payment, but in order to avoid the delinquent penalty, your payment envelope must possess a United States Postal Service postmark on or before the tax delinquent date. Remember, the delinquent dates are as follows:
- First installment delinquent at 5 p.m., December 10.
- Second installment delinquent at 5 p.m., April 10.
If the delinquent date falls on a weekend or holiday, the penalty is not imposed until 5 p.m. on the next business day. Contact us for more information at 209-385-7592.

8. Can I pay my secured property tax bill with my credit card?: Yes. You can pay with your credit card by telephone at 1-877-737-4829 or online.

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Sheriff's Department

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1. How can I get a copy of a criminal report?

Come down to either the main office in Merced, or one of the sub stations located in Delhi or Los Banos and provide the following information:

Case number (if available)
Suspects last name
Victims last name
Date
Time
Location of occurrence

You will be required to fill out a request form prior to obtaining the report and pay $10 for a copy of the report.

2. How do I check to see if someone is in-custody?: You can check to see if someone is in-custody by calling (209) 385-7410 during business hours.

3. Who do I call if I have a civil problem?: You can call the Merced County Civil Division at (209) 385-7639.

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Special Assessments

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1. What are special assessments?: Special assessments arise because various governmental agencies provide services to the property and are shown on your tax bill, like:
- Garbage
- Lighting, etc.
- Sewer
- Water
For more information, contact the Auditor-Controller's office at 209-385-7511.

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Supplemental Taxes

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1. What are "supplemental" property taxes?: “Supplemental” taxes are additional secured taxes that are due when property undergoes a change in ownership or new construction. The additional tax is owed because the County Assessor is required to immediately adjust the January 1 value to reflect the new value of the property. Adjusted for the number of months left in the fiscal year, the supplemental tax bill represents the tax due on the difference between the old and new values. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

2. How are the supplemental tax amounts determined?: The difference between the new value and the old January 1 value is multiplied by a proration factor. The proration factor is the percentage of months remaining in the fiscal year. This result is then multiplied by the tax rate (usually 1% plus voter approved indebtedness) to determine the supplemental tax amount due. Contact us ad 209-385-7592 for more information.

3. When should I expect my supplemental tax bill(s)?: Most supplemental bills are mailed within nine (9) months after a change in ownership or new construction. You should receive a Notification of Supplemental Assessment approximately sixty (60) days before the bill is mailed. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

4. Why did I receive more than one supplemental tax bill?: You may receive more than one supplemental tax bill, depending on when you purchased your property or completed new construction. Because the secured property taxes are based on the January 1 value and cover a fiscal year, your purchase / construction date may effect the calculation of the taxes for two fiscal years. For example, if you purchased property in February 1998, your purchase would effect the 1997/98 fiscal year taxes (February 1998 through June 1998) and the 1998 to 1999 fiscal year taxes (July 1998 through June 1999). The latter fiscal year is effected because the value would have already been established by the Assessor on January 1, 1998, prior to the purchase/construction. Therefore, the taxes calculated for 1998 to 1999 would also have to be adjusted by a supplemental bill to reflect the increased value.

5. When is the supplemental tax due?: The supplemental tax is due upon the mailing of the bill. It is payable in two installments. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

6. When does the supplemental bill become delinquent?: The supplemental bill is payable in two installments, like the secured bill. The delinquent dates of the installments depend on when the bill is mailed. A supplemental tax bill mailed between July and October carries a first installment delinquent date of December 10 and a second installment delinquent date of April 10. Supplemental bills mailed between November and June carry a delinquent date based on the month in which the bill was mailed—the first installment is delinquent the last day of the month in which the bill was mailed. The second installment is delinquent four (4) months later. For example, if a supplemental tax bill is mailed in February, the first installment delinquent date would be March 31 and the second installment delinquent date would be July 31. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

7. If I don’t pay on time, will I be charged a penalty?: Yes. If your payment is not received or postmarked by the delinquent dates, the penalty amounts are the same as secured taxes: First installment penalty is 10% of the first installment amount. Second installment penalty is 10% of the second installment amount, plus $10. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

8. When should I mail my payment to avoid penalties?: When you mail your payment, your payment envelope must possess a United States Postal Service postmark on or before the tax delinquent date in order to avoid the delinquent penalties. Learn more on our Avoiding Penalties page.

9. Is a private postage meter date the same as the United States Postal Service postmark?: No. California law requires the Tax Collector to accept the US postmark, not a private meter date, as the date of payment. Learn more on our Avoiding Penalties page.

10. Can payments be postmarked on the deadline date?: Yes.

11. Can I pay my supplemental property tax bill with my credit card?: Yes. You can pay with your credit card by telephone at 1-877-737-4829 or online.

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Taxes on Mobile Homes

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1. Who should I call if I have questions?: Should you have any further questions about Tax Clearance Certificates or payments, please contact the Merced County Tax Collector at 209-385-7592.
Questions regarding assessed values or exemptions should be addressed to the Merced County Assessor at 209-385-7631.

2. What is a mobile home?: A mobile home is a structure, transportable in one or more sections, designed and equipped to contain one or more dwelling units, and to be used with or without a foundation system. Specifically any trailer coach that is more than eight feet wide or forty feet long, or one that requires a permit to move on the highway is considered a mobile home.

3. I have a recreational vehicle (RV), is is considered a mobile home?: No. Recreational vehicles, as well as buses and prefabricated housing units, are not considered mobile homes.

4. How do I find out if I am entitled to the homeowner's exemption?: Information regarding homeowner's and other exemptions can be obtained by calling the office of the Merced County Assessor at 209-385-7631 or writing to:
Merced County Assessor
2222 “M” Street
Merced CA 95340

5. What additional tax assistance programs are offered by the state?: The State of California administers programs that provide property tax assistance and postponement of property taxes to qualified homeowners and renters who are 62 or older, blind, or disabled. For information on the State's Homeowner or Renter Assistance Program, call the Franchise Tax Board at 800-852-5711. For information on the Property Tax Postponement Program, call the State Controller at 800-952-5661.

6. How can I change taxation of my mobile home from license fees to the local property tax system?: You can request a voluntary conversion to local property taxes by calling (800)952-8356 or writing to:
State of California
Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
P.O. Box 2111
6007 Folsom Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95810

7. If my mobile home currently is subject to local property taxation, can I request reinstatement of vehicle license fees?: No. Once mobile homes have been changed to local property taxation, it is not possible to reinstate vehicle in-lieu license fees. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

8. How is the amount of my mobile home property taxes determined?: The amount of property taxes on your mobile home is determined in accordance with the State Law and is limited to $1 per $100 (1%) of assessed value of your mobile home, except for certain direct assessments applied by cities and districts and special taxes approved by local voters.
The County Assessor determines the assessed value of your mobile home, which is generally the cash or market value at the time of purchase. This value increases not more than 2% per year until the mobile home is sold, at which time it must be reassessed. If your mobile home is parked on land that you own, the land will be assessed and taxed separately. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

9. Do I have any recourse if I disagree with the valuation placed on my mobile home by the Assessor?: Yes. You may take the matter up with the Assessor to see if that office will change the valuation. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors has established an Assessment Appeals Board for the purpose of resolving valuation problems. Additional information regarding appeals can be obtained by calling the Merced County Assessor at 209-385-7631 or writing to:
Merced County Assessor
2222 “M” Street
Merced CA 95340

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Treasurer - Tax Collector: Transient Occupancy Tax

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1. What is the Transient Occupancy Tax?

This tax is imposed on the transient tenant for occupying space or use of furnishings or other services or accommodations in a hotel, motel, or any other structure intended for occupancy by transients for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping purposes for a period of thirty (30) consecutive calendar days or less.

Definition of Terms Used With Transient Occupancy Tax:

Hotel: Any structure, or any portion of any structure, which is occupied, or intended or designed for occupancy, by transients for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping purposes and shall include any hotel, inn, tourist house or home, motel, studio hotel, bachelor hotel, lodging house, rooming house, apartment house, dormitory, public or private club. “Hotel” also includes a mobile home which is located outside a mobile home park when the tenant is not an employee of the owner or operator of the mobile home. “Hotel” does not include a hospital room, medical clinic, convalescent home or home for the aged.

Occupancy: The use or possession, or the right to the use or possession, of any room, or portion thereof, in any hotel for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping purposes.

Operator: The person who is the proprietor of the hotel, whether in the capacity of owner, lessee, sublessee, mortgagee in possession, licensee, or any other capacity. This also includes vacation/part-time rental agencies.

Person: Any individual, firm, partnership, joint venture, association, social club, fraternal organization, joint stock company, corporation, estate, trust, business trust, receiver, trustee, syndicate, or any other group or combination acting as a unit.

Rent: The consideration charged, whether or not received, for the occupancy of space in a hotel valued in money, whether to be received in money, goods, labor, or otherwise, including all receipts, cash, credit, and property and services of any kind or nature.

Transient: Any person who exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy by reason of concession, permit, right of access, license, or other agreement for a period of 30 consecutive calendar days or less.

2. Who is the Transient Occupancy Tax collected from?: All hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, etc, as defined under “hotel”, that are located in the unincorporated areas of Merced County. The tax is collected from the transient occupant, and is paid to the hotel operator with the intended rent.

3. Who is exempt from paying Transient Occupancy Tax?

Any occupancy exceeding 30 consecutive days.

Any Federal or State officer or employee on official business.(these claims for exemptions must be accompanied by an exemption certificate.)

Any occupancy of hotels reserved exclusively for religious, charitable, educational, or welfare purposes.

4. Can I get a copy of the County Ordinance regarding Transient Occupancy Tax?: Yes. You can go to: http://www.qcode.us/codes/mercedcounty/index.php?topic=5-5_32

5. How is Transient Occupancy Tax paid to the Tax Collector?: Occupancy Tax is reported on a quarterly basis. The tax is due and payable on the 1st day following the end of the quarter.
1st quarter - Jan, Feb, Mar - delq if not paid by Apr 30
2nd quarter - Apr, May, Jun - delq if not paid by July 31
3rd quarter - Jul, Aug, Sept - delq if not paid by Oct 31
4th quarter - Oct, Nov, Dec - delq if not paid by Jan 31

6. How do I apply for a Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate?

Download and fill out the Transient Occupancy Tax Registration.

Please mail your completed application to:

Karen D. Adams, CPA
Merced County Treasurer/Tax Collector
Attn: Transient Occupancy Tax Section
2222 M St.
Merced, CA 95340

You must submit your application within 30 days of commencing business. After your application has been processed, you will receive your Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate, which must posted in a conspicuous place on the premises for which it is issued.

7. How can I change my address, business name, name of owners, etc, on my Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate?: Fill out a new application, and mail to the address noted above. Please indicate what is being changed and when the change is effective.

8. How do I close my Transient Occupancy Tax Certificate account?: Send your Transient Occupancy Registration Certificate back to this office with a letter explaining why you no longer require the Certificate. In order to fully close your account, it is necessary that your certificate be returned to this office within 30 days of the close of business, and all tax returns filed with payment through the close of business date.

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Unsecured Property Taxes

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1. What are “unsecured” property taxes?: The term “unsecured” simply refers to property that can be relocated and is not real property. The tax assessed against such things as business personal property / fixtures, boats, and airplanes. If the unsecured tax is not paid, a personal lien is filed against the owner, not the property. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

2. When is the unsecured tax assessed?: The Assessor establishes the value of the unsecured property on January 1. This date is often referred to as the Tax Lien date. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

3. How are the unsecured tax amounts determined?: The January 1 value is multiplied by the tax rate (usually 1% plus voter approved indebtedness). The unsecured tax rate is the prior year secured rate. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

4. What period of time does an unsecured tax bill cover?: An unsecured tax bill covers a fiscal year. The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends on June 30 of the following calendar year. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

5. If I sell my unsecured property before the fiscal year, am I still responsible for the unsecured tax?: Yes. Disposal of the property after the January 1 lien date does not eliminate your tax liability. If you sell the property before the unsecured tax bill is issued, make sure you collect an estimated amount for the unsecured tax from the buyer. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

6. When should I expect my unsecured tax bill?: Most unsecured bills are mailed July 31. These bills must be paid on or before 5 p.m. on August 31. If the bill is mailed after July 31, the delinquent date is extended to the end of the month following the bill’s issuance. In other words, if your bill is mailed in September, the delinquent date would be October 31. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

7. If I don’t pay on time, will I be charged a penalty?: Yes, If payment is not received or postmarked by the delinquent date, a 10% penalty is added to the tax bill. If taxes remain unpaid for two additional months, a monthly penalty of 1.5% begins to accrue and in addition a Certificate of Tax Lien is recorded. Other fees may apply. Taxes due on Unsecured property may be collected by seizure and sale of any of the following property belonging or assessed: (a) Personal Property; (b) Improvements; (c) Possessory Interest (Sec. 2922 R&T Code). Contact us for more information at (209) 385-7592.

8. When should I mail my payment to avoid penalties?: You can mail your payment, but in order to avoid the delinquent penalties, your payment envelope must possess a United States Postal Service postmark on or before the tax delinquent date. Learn more on our Avoid Penalties page.

9. Is a private postage meter date the same as the United States Postal Service postmark?: No. California law requires the Tax Collector to accept the US postmark, not a private meter date, as the date of payment. For more information, contact us at 209-385-7592.

10. Can payments be postmarked on the deadline date?: Yes. Learn more on our Avoid Penalties page.

11. If I don’t pay my unsecured tax bill, can the Tax Collector take my property?: Yes. California law allows the Tax Collector to seize and sell the unsecured property or any other personal property owned by the assessee including bank accounts. Contact us at 209-385-7592 for more information.

12. Can I pay my unsecured property tax bill with my credit card?: Yes. You can pay with your credit card by telephone at 1-877-737-4829 or online.

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Workforce Investment

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1. Can I find a job through Worknet?: Worknet will assist you in your job search.

2. When are orientations held about Worknet?: Orientations are provided to first-time visitors as they come into the Worknet.

3. What services does Workforce Investment provide?: Services are provided through the Worknet partnership for both businesses and job seekers.

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