Post Date: 03/12/2020 4:56 PM

Press Release: Reported Cases of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) (PDF)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Bruce Moe, City Manager

City of Manhattan Beach

(310) 802-5053

www.citymb.info

Reported Cases of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Manhattan Beach, CA (March 12, 2020) – This is a follow-up to a previous press release dated March 10, 2020, in which the City reported there were no known COVID-19 cases in Manhattan Beach.

Yesterday, March 11, 2020, the City received updated information that there are two reported cases of COVID-19 in Manhattan Beach. The City received this information from one of the individuals that has contracted the virus. That individual, who contacted the City by telephone, stated that he tested positive for COVID-19 by the County Department of Public Health (DPH), and has been self-quarantined in a Manhattan Beach residence along with the other reported local case. The two individuals had been traveling overseas together with a larger group when they became ill.

The City made multiple attempts to contact DPH to confirm these cases, but have not received return calls. The City contacted Supervisor Janice Hahn’s office for assistance with obtaining information from DPH. The Supervisor’s office advised that DPH will not confirm or report COVID-19 illnesses to the local agency (City) unless there is known public exposure or need to cancel an event or close a facility. Further, under state and federal law, public health investigations are confidential.

“This is very disturbing and seriously disappointing to say the least,” said Mayor Richard Montgomery. “Not being able to obtain information about COVID-19 cases in our own community is counterproductive to our common goal of protecting our residents.”

The Novel Coronavirus pandemic continues to evolve, and Manhattan Beach is implementing all recommended public health measures as directed by DPH and preparing itself as more cases in Los Angeles County arise. The City will be announcing event cancellations, postponements and other modifications to City operations in a separate press release.

As a reminder, in order to reduce the risk of spreading illnesses, it is recommended that each person:

Stay home if sick or need to care for a sick family member.

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing using a tissue or sleeve (not hands).

Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces often.

If you have questions and would like to speak to someone, or need help finding medical care, call the Los Angeles County Information line 2-1-1, which is available 24/7.

For accurate and up to date information, please visit DPH’s website and the City’s website.

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