Eligibility Expands to 16 and Older at Nevada County Public Health Clinics

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From Nevada County Public Health:
We want to make sure that our rate of community vaccinations stays as fast as possible and that people who are ready to get vaccinated can get an appointment. Public Health has seen the availability in our appointment scheduling system increase in the last few weeks, so we have opened up eligibility for Nevada County Public Health clinics to everyone 16 and older. 

  • Everyone 50+ is eligible at all vaccine providers, including Public Health clinics.
  • Everyone 16+ is eligible at Nevada County Public Health clinics.

How to get an appointment when you are eligible

  • Appointments for 50+ and eligible employment sectors:
    • As of today, everyone 50 and older is eligible statewide, plus people who work in health care, education and childcare, food and agriculture, and emergency services. For a detailed list of eligibility, check our Vaccine Schedule page.
    • See our Vaccine Provider page for info on available appointments at individual providers. 
    • Use MyTurn.ca.gov or 1-833-422-4255 for Public Health clinics. We release appointments Fridays at noon.
  • Appointments for people 16 and older:
    • Public Health appointments are available via MyTurn.ca.gov or 1-833-422-4255 for our clinics in Grass Valley.
    • We post new appointments every Friday around noon for the following week.
    • Vaccine is free and you don’t need insurance to get your dose. However, if you have insurance, have your insurance info ready when you book your appointment via MyTurn.ca.gov.
    • Pfizer is the only vaccine that 16 and 17 year old’s can receive. Everyone 18 or older can receive all vaccine types. If you are 16 or 17, make sure you are signing up for a Pfizer vaccine clinic only. Public Health’s Whispering Pines clinics are Pfizer. 16 and 17 year old’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at their appointment.
    • People 16 and older will be eligible statewide starting April 15 statewide.

More than 46,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Nevada County

  • CDC guidance on what you can and can’t do once you are fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated means two weeks after your final dose).
  • You are not jumping the line if you are eligible! Every vaccine administered is a win for the whole community. 
  • Please make every effort to keep your second appointment for Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Every dose is precious.
  • If applicable, you need to receive your second dose where you received your first dose. Public Health cannot schedule second dose-only appointments.

Please stay informed as this is an evolving situation

  • We are in Red Tier. Please wear a mask, don’t gather, stay socially distance and stay home when you can so we can move to a less restrictive business tier as soon as possible. If you are fully vaccinated, continue to wear your mask in public, don’t attend large gatherings, and social distance when in public.
  • Text VACCINEINFO to 898211 to receive text updates from Public Health straight to your smartphone. Subscribe for those same alerts via email by filling out this online form.
  • Call 211 (1-833-DIAL211) with questions about your tier or other general questions about COVID-19.
  • YubaNet will be hosting weekly, short webinars every Thursday at noon to provide updates on COVID-19 and vaccine distribution in Nevada County. Register here – only one registration for all webinars is required.

Eligibility Expands to 16 and Older at Nevada County Public Health Clinics

Posted on

From Nevada County Public Health:
We want to make sure that our rate of community vaccinations stays as fast as possible and that people who are ready to get vaccinated can get an appointment. Public Health has seen the availability in our appointment scheduling system increase in the last few weeks, so we have opened up eligibility for Nevada County Public Health clinics to everyone 16 and older. 

  • Everyone 50+ is eligible at all vaccine providers, including Public Health clinics.
  • Everyone 16+ is eligible at Nevada County Public Health clinics.

How to get an appointment when you are eligible

  • Appointments for 50+ and eligible employment sectors:
    • As of today, everyone 50 and older is eligible statewide, plus people who work in health care, education and childcare, food and agriculture, and emergency services. For a detailed list of eligibility, check our Vaccine Schedule page.
    • See our Vaccine Provider page for info on available appointments at individual providers. 
    • Use MyTurn.ca.gov or 1-833-422-4255 for Public Health clinics. We release appointments Fridays at noon.
  • Appointments for people 16 and older:
    • Public Health appointments are available via MyTurn.ca.gov or 1-833-422-4255 for our clinics in Grass Valley.
    • We post new appointments every Friday around noon for the following week.
    • Vaccine is free and you don’t need insurance to get your dose. However, if you have insurance, have your insurance info ready when you book your appointment via MyTurn.ca.gov.
    • Pfizer is the only vaccine that 16 and 17 year old’s can receive. Everyone 18 or older can receive all vaccine types. If you are 16 or 17, make sure you are signing up for a Pfizer vaccine clinic only. Public Health’s Whispering Pines clinics are Pfizer. 16 and 17 year old’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at their appointment.
    • People 16 and older will be eligible statewide starting April 15 statewide.

More than 46,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in Nevada County

  • CDC guidance on what you can and can’t do once you are fully vaccinated (fully vaccinated means two weeks after your final dose).
  • You are not jumping the line if you are eligible! Every vaccine administered is a win for the whole community. 
  • Please make every effort to keep your second appointment for Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Every dose is precious.
  • If applicable, you need to receive your second dose where you received your first dose. Public Health cannot schedule second dose-only appointments.

Please stay informed as this is an evolving situation

  • We are in Red Tier. Please wear a mask, don’t gather, stay socially distance and stay home when you can so we can move to a less restrictive business tier as soon as possible. If you are fully vaccinated, continue to wear your mask in public, don’t attend large gatherings, and social distance when in public.
  • Text VACCINEINFO to 898211 to receive text updates from Public Health straight to your smartphone. Subscribe for those same alerts via email by filling out this online form.
  • Call 211 (1-833-DIAL211) with questions about your tier or other general questions about COVID-19.
  • YubaNet will be hosting weekly, short webinars every Thursday at noon to provide updates on COVID-19 and vaccine distribution in Nevada County. Register here – only one registration for all webinars is required.

COVID Vaccine Appointments for Eligible Residents, Pop-Up Clinic March 26 at SNMH

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Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital has open COVID vaccine appointments for eligible residents for a pop-up clinic on March 26 at SNMH! Please call 530-737-6233 to get signed up! 

This vaccination clinic is available for Nevada County residents or those who work in Nevada County age 65 & older, or if you meet the current Nevada County vaccine eligibility guidelines. 

Now vaccinating Phase 1A healthcare workers; Phase 1B Education & Childcare, Emergency Services, and Food & Agriculture; People with Underlying Conditions age 18-64.

If you don’t know if you’re eligible, check the vaccine schedule at https://www.mynevadacounty.com/3172/Vaccine-Schedule

Nevada County Will Move into the Red Tier, Wednesday, March 24th

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Today, Nevada County met the State’s metrics for the Red Tier for two consecutive weeks and will move into the Red Tier on Wednesday, March 24th. With this Tuesday’s update, Nevada County has a daily case rate of eight, qualifying Nevada County for the Red Tier under the reassessment of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy thresholds. 

In the Red Tier, business sectors such as restaurants, gyms, and movie theaters will have reduced capacity indoors:

  • Restaurants: 25% capacity or 100 people indoors, whichever is fewer
  • Gyms: 10% capacity indoors
  • Movie Theaters: 25% capacity or 100 people indoors, whichever is fewer
  • Retail: 50% capacity indoors

View the guidance for all business sectors at covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy.

Business Task Force Webinar on New Grants and Tier Changes

On Thursday, March 25th, Nevada County is hosting a special, 30-minute Business Task Force meeting from 4:30-5:00 p.m. to review new grants and the changes for sectors between the Purple and Red Tier. Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_774CYkJVSTilos4hqwLLQQ. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Sierra Business Council will provide an update on the following grants and business resources:

  • The Restaurant Revitalization Fund provides grants of up to $5M per restaurant, food stand, food truck, food cart, caterer, saloon, inn, tavern, bar, lounge, brewpub, tasting room, taproom. Learn more at: restaurantsact.com.
  • The California Relief Grant provides micro-grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to eligible small businesses and nonprofits impacted by COVID-19 and the related health and safety restrictions. Apply or apply for Rounds 4, 5, and 6. Note that Round 4 applications for nonprofit cultural institutions are due March 26, 2021. Learn more at: careliefgrant.com.
  • The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to directly incentivize small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Borrowers may be eligible for PPP loan forgiveness. SBA is currently offering PPP loans until March 31, 2021. Learn more at: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program.
  • The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant provides grants to live venue operators or promoters, theatrical producers, live performing arts organization operators, relevant museum operators, zoos and aquariums who meet specific criteria, motion picture theater operators, and talent representatives. Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue. Learn more at: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant.

For updates on grants and business resources, subscribe to the Coronavirus Business Task Force list at www.mynevadacounty.com/BusinessResourcesSubscription.

Stay the Course

Over the past few weeks, many have been frustrated that Nevada County had remained in the Purple Tier, with many wondering why. Masking, distancing, avoiding gathering, and getting vaccinated when it’s your turn are the ways we can continue to lower our community’s COVID transmission. Individual action leads to collective mitigation, and everyone’s efforts to help lower COVID transmission are reflected in our tier data.

Nevada County Will Move into the Red Tier, Wednesday, March 24th

Posted on

Today, Nevada County met the State’s metrics for the Red Tier for two consecutive weeks and will move into the Red Tier on Wednesday, March 24th. With this Tuesday’s update, Nevada County has a daily case rate of eight, qualifying Nevada County for the Red Tier under the reassessment of the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy thresholds. 

In the Red Tier, business sectors such as restaurants, gyms, and movie theaters will have reduced capacity indoors:

  • Restaurants: 25% capacity or 100 people indoors, whichever is fewer
  • Gyms: 10% capacity indoors
  • Movie Theaters: 25% capacity or 100 people indoors, whichever is fewer
  • Retail: 50% capacity indoors

View the guidance for all business sectors at covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy.

Business Task Force Webinar on New Grants and Tier Changes

On Thursday, March 25th, Nevada County is hosting a special, 30-minute Business Task Force meeting from 4:30-5:00 p.m. to review new grants and the changes for sectors between the Purple and Red Tier. Register in advance for this webinar: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_774CYkJVSTilos4hqwLLQQ. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Sierra Business Council will provide an update on the following grants and business resources:

  • The Restaurant Revitalization Fund provides grants of up to $5M per restaurant, food stand, food truck, food cart, caterer, saloon, inn, tavern, bar, lounge, brewpub, tasting room, taproom. Learn more at: restaurantsact.com.
  • The California Relief Grant provides micro-grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to eligible small businesses and nonprofits impacted by COVID-19 and the related health and safety restrictions. Apply or apply for Rounds 4, 5, and 6. Note that Round 4 applications for nonprofit cultural institutions are due March 26, 2021. Learn more at: careliefgrant.com.
  • The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to directly incentivize small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Borrowers may be eligible for PPP loan forgiveness. SBA is currently offering PPP loans until March 31, 2021. Learn more at: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program.
  • The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant provides grants to live venue operators or promoters, theatrical producers, live performing arts organization operators, relevant museum operators, zoos and aquariums who meet specific criteria, motion picture theater operators, and talent representatives. Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue. Learn more at: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/shuttered-venue-operators-grant.

For updates on grants and business resources, subscribe to the Coronavirus Business Task Force list at www.mynevadacounty.com/BusinessResourcesSubscription.

Stay the Course

Over the past few weeks, many have been frustrated that Nevada County had remained in the Purple Tier, with many wondering why. Masking, distancing, avoiding gathering, and getting vaccinated when it’s your turn are the ways we can continue to lower our community’s COVID transmission. Individual action leads to collective mitigation, and everyone’s efforts to help lower COVID transmission are reflected in our tier data.

First known case of B.1.1.7 variant detected in Placer County

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The first known case of the B.1.1.7 variant of SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in Placer County. Early data suggests that the B.1.1.7 variant, dubbed the “U.K. variant” because of its spread in the United Kingdom, has potential for increased transmissibility. For more information about this variant, please see the CDC website.

The individual had no known travel history identified through contact tracing, and their isolation period has passed. No additional information regarding the case will be provided. There have been more than 250 cases of B.1.1.7 identified across California.

“The detection of this variant is not a surprise but is a reminder than the pandemic has not ended,” said Health and Human Services Director and Interim Health Officer Dr. Rob Oldham. “Even as we continue an aggressive vaccination campaign, it is important to continue to take steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 – and therefore limit the spread of variants – in our community, such as masking and distancing.”

Initial studies suggest that all three vaccines currently in use in the United States (Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson) provide protection against the B.1.1.7 variant.

Those currently eligible for vaccination in Placer County include:

  • Healthcare workers
  • Long-term care residents
  • People aged 65 and over
  • Education and childcare
  • Food and agriculture
  • Emergency services
  • Public transit
  • Janitorial
  • Those 16-64 with certain underlying health conditions

Visit www.placer.ca.gov/vaccineclinics to view appointment availability and sign up for text updates by texting PLACERVACCINE to the number 898211 to receive text alerts. Additional guidance and information about COVID-19 from Placer County Public Health is available at www.placer.ca.gov/coronavirus/.

Collective Focus and Commitment Will Get Nevada County out of Purple Tier

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Nevada County’s COVID case rate has kept our communities countywide in the State’s Purple Tier. We are one county and can only open when, together, we have numbers that align with the State’s blueprint.  The past year has been challenging and frustrating, but the science is very simple and settled–  each one of us must remain vigilant, avoid gatherings, wear our masks, limit indoor activities with others, practice social distancing, and take all precautions to avoid spreading the virus. Individual action leads to collective mitigation that will get us all out of the most restrictive tier.

“We are at the cusp of moving forward towards the Red Tier, but we need everyone in our community to do their part so we can get back to business,” said Vice-Chair and District 4 Supervisor Sue Hoek.

To move into the less restrictive Red Tier, our county must meet specific criteria for two consecutive weeks. Today, Nevada County met the metrics for the Red Tier for the first time since November. If our case rate stays below 10 cases per day and our positivity rate stays below 8%, we will be able to move into the Red Tier as early as March 24th.

“To keep our case rate low, we rely on each individual and business in our community to help slow the spread,” said Truckee Mayor Anna Klovstad. “This means helping all of our communities countywide to understand the importance of following the health mandate, providing support where appropriate, and building a sense of partnership.”

“We are only going to get through this by working together, all our communities, across Nevada County,” added District 5 Supervisor Hardy Bullock.

We all have the same common goals: to reduce the spread of COVID so we can begin to safely reopen our businesses and return to some level of normalcy.

“City, Town, and County staff continue to collaborate to reduce current case rates, improve awareness and speed our safe reopening,” said Nevada City Mayor Erin Minett.

“By reducing the spread of COVID, we support the safe reopening of our businesses and our community’s health,” added Grass Valley Mayor Ben Aguilar.

Just as our businesses and community members each have individual roles in minimizing local transmission, local government continues to partner to gather all resources possible to support our communities through the hardships of a pandemic. The new relief package from the federal government will provide additional and much more substantial relief for our business and non-profit community compared to previous rounds.

Nevada County Public Health continues to partner with vaccine providers throughout the community. Nevada County’s vaccination rate puts us in the top five California counties by the population percentage through these partnerships. Efforts like the Public Health REACH (Resources for Equity and Access in Community Health) Team meet people where they are, bringing vaccines to those who are hardest-to-reach and have some of the highest levels of exposure and risk.

As more vaccines continue to become available, residents are encouraged to make every effort to be vaccinated. “We have three safe, highly effective vaccines available to fight COVID-19. This is one of the best tools we have to protect not only yourself but your friends and loved ones you come into contact with. Being immunized will get our businesses back on track,” said Dr. Scott Kellermann, Nevada County’s Public Health Officer. “If you have been offered a vaccine, take it. Every vaccination gets us closer to the finish line.”

If you are over 65, a frontline worker, or have a chronic health condition, you may be eligible to be vaccinated. Register with MyTurn.CA.Gov to check your eligibility and check the County’s Vaccine Provider webpage for additional vaccine opportunities near you. As your local government representatives, our promise is to continue to bring creative and collaborative solutions to emerge from this pandemic stronger than before. As we have many times throughout the past year, we are facing a pivotal moment when we must stand together. It depends on each of us to do our part to end this pandemic. Together we are Nevada County Strong.

Collective Focus and Commitment Will Get Nevada County out of Purple Tier

Posted on

Nevada County’s COVID case rate has kept our communities countywide in the State’s Purple Tier. We are one county and can only open when, together, we have numbers that align with the State’s blueprint.  The past year has been challenging and frustrating, but the science is very simple and settled–  each one of us must remain vigilant, avoid gatherings, wear our masks, limit indoor activities with others, practice social distancing, and take all precautions to avoid spreading the virus. Individual action leads to collective mitigation that will get us all out of the most restrictive tier.

“We are at the cusp of moving forward towards the Red Tier, but we need everyone in our community to do their part so we can get back to business,” said Vice-Chair and District 4 Supervisor Sue Hoek.

To move into the less restrictive Red Tier, our county must meet specific criteria for two consecutive weeks. Today, Nevada County met the metrics for the Red Tier for the first time since November. If our case rate stays below 10 cases per day and our positivity rate stays below 8%, we will be able to move into the Red Tier as early as March 24th.

“To keep our case rate low, we rely on each individual and business in our community to help slow the spread,” said Truckee Mayor Anna Klovstad. “This means helping all of our communities countywide to understand the importance of following the health mandate, providing support where appropriate, and building a sense of partnership.”

“We are only going to get through this by working together, all our communities, across Nevada County,” added District 5 Supervisor Hardy Bullock.

We all have the same common goals: to reduce the spread of COVID so we can begin to safely reopen our businesses and return to some level of normalcy.

“City, Town, and County staff continue to collaborate to reduce current case rates, improve awareness and speed our safe reopening,” said Nevada City Mayor Erin Minett.

“By reducing the spread of COVID, we support the safe reopening of our businesses and our community’s health,” added Grass Valley Mayor Ben Aguilar.

Just as our businesses and community members each have individual roles in minimizing local transmission, local government continues to partner to gather all resources possible to support our communities through the hardships of a pandemic. The new relief package from the federal government will provide additional and much more substantial relief for our business and non-profit community compared to previous rounds.

Nevada County Public Health continues to partner with vaccine providers throughout the community. Nevada County’s vaccination rate puts us in the top five California counties by the population percentage through these partnerships. Efforts like the Public Health REACH (Resources for Equity and Access in Community Health) Team meet people where they are, bringing vaccines to those who are hardest-to-reach and have some of the highest levels of exposure and risk.

As more vaccines continue to become available, residents are encouraged to make every effort to be vaccinated. “We have three safe, highly effective vaccines available to fight COVID-19. This is one of the best tools we have to protect not only yourself but your friends and loved ones you come into contact with. Being immunized will get our businesses back on track,” said Dr. Scott Kellermann, Nevada County’s Public Health Officer. “If you have been offered a vaccine, take it. Every vaccination gets us closer to the finish line.”

If you are over 65, a frontline worker, or have a chronic health condition, you may be eligible to be vaccinated. Register with MyTurn.CA.Gov to check your eligibility and check the County’s Vaccine Provider webpage for additional vaccine opportunities near you. As your local government representatives, our promise is to continue to bring creative and collaborative solutions to emerge from this pandemic stronger than before. As we have many times throughout the past year, we are facing a pivotal moment when we must stand together. It depends on each of us to do our part to end this pandemic. Together we are Nevada County Strong.

State Announces Changes to Business Tier System

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Today, the State announced changes to their Blueprint for a Safer Economy after reaching 2 million California residents vaccinated in some of the hardest-hit communities triggering an update to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy tier system. Nevada County remains in the Purple Tier with the update and reassessment of the new statewide Blueprint for a Safer Economy thresholds. Our pathway to the Red Tier is to continue social distancing, masking, and refraining from social gatherings.

Update to the Daily Case Rate Threshold Beginning March 14th

The State has updated the thresholds in their Blueprint for a Safer Economy due to increased vaccinations in the hardest-hit communities. When our case rate drops below 10 per day per 100,000 people and our positivity rate stays below 8% for two consecutive weeks we will advance to the Red Tier.

Update to Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries Beginning March 13th

The State has updated its guidance for breweries, wineries and distilleries to open outdoors without food service beginning March 13th. Breweries, wineries, and distilleries that provide food service should continue to follow the restaurant guidance.

  • Purple Tier: Open outdoors with modifications including reservations, 90-minute time limit, and ending onsite consumption by 8 pm. Food service is no longer required. 
  • Red Tier: Open outdoors with modifications including reservations, 90-minute time limit, and ending onsite consumption by 8 pm. Food service is no longer required.
  • Orange Tier: 25% capacity indoors or 100 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications.
  • Yellow Tier: 50% capacity indoors or 200 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications.

Update to Outdoor Events Beginning April 1st 

The State has updated its guidance for outdoor events (including sports events and live performances) with attendees beginning April 1st.

  • Purple Tier: 100 people or few. Limited to regional viewers within 120 miles, advanced registration required, and no concessions or concourse sales.
  • Red Tier: 20% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.
  • Orange Tier: 33% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.
  • Yellow Tier: 67% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.

State Announces Changes to Business Tier System

Posted on

Today, the State announced changes to their Blueprint for a Safer Economy after reaching 2 million California residents vaccinated in some of the hardest-hit communities triggering an update to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy tier system. Nevada County remains in the Purple Tier with the update and reassessment of the new statewide Blueprint for a Safer Economy thresholds. Our pathway to the Red Tier is to continue social distancing, masking, and refraining from social gatherings.

Update to the Daily Case Rate Threshold Beginning March 14th

The State has updated the thresholds in their Blueprint for a Safer Economy due to increased vaccinations in the hardest-hit communities. When our case rate drops below 10 per day per 100,000 people and our positivity rate stays below 8% for two consecutive weeks we will advance to the Red Tier.

Update to Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries Beginning March 13th

The State has updated its guidance for breweries, wineries and distilleries to open outdoors without food service beginning March 13th. Breweries, wineries, and distilleries that provide food service should continue to follow the restaurant guidance.

  • Purple Tier: Open outdoors with modifications including reservations, 90-minute time limit, and ending onsite consumption by 8 pm. Food service is no longer required. 
  • Red Tier: Open outdoors with modifications including reservations, 90-minute time limit, and ending onsite consumption by 8 pm. Food service is no longer required.
  • Orange Tier: 25% capacity indoors or 100 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications.
  • Yellow Tier: 50% capacity indoors or 200 people, whichever is fewer, with modifications.

Update to Outdoor Events Beginning April 1st 

The State has updated its guidance for outdoor events (including sports events and live performances) with attendees beginning April 1st.

  • Purple Tier: 100 people or few. Limited to regional viewers within 120 miles, advanced registration required, and no concessions or concourse sales.
  • Red Tier: 20% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.
  • Orange Tier: 33% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.
  • Yellow Tier: 67% capacity. Limited to in-state attendees, advanced registration, and in-seat concessions.

Nevada County Pilots MyTurn with Limited Appointments

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An extremely limited number of appointments will be available as Nevada County Public Health tests the system before expanding access in the coming days and weeks. These first few appointments are a small pilot of MyTurn in Nevada County. Nevada County residents who have signed up for MyTurn and are currently eligible for vaccination will receive notification that appointments are available. NCPH expects that these appointments will fill up very quickly. 

They are releasing these few appointments to test the system and work out any glitches. They expect to release larger number of appointments next week and we want to ensure that the system runs smoothly.

All Nevada County residents are encouraged to sign up for MyTurn to receive notification of vaccine eligibility and open appointments. Go to myturn.ca.gov or call 1-833-422-4255 to register. Those who are not yet eligible can sign up to be notified when it’s their turn to be vaccinated.  As more vaccine becomes available in Nevada County, the community will begin to see more appointments available on MyTurn.

The Public Health Department is grateful for your patience as they test this new system. 

Please stay informed as this is an evolving situation and continue to be patient as NCPH meets this unprecedented challenge

  • Truckee Residents: Updated COVID-19 and vaccination information: https://www.tfhd.com/covid/covid-19-vaccine
  • Sign up for MyTurn.ca.gov for appointment availability
  • Bookmark our COVID-19 vaccination page and check back regularly
  • Text VACCINEINFO to 898211 to receive text updates from Public Health straight to your smartphone
  • Subscribe for those same alerts via email by filling out this on-line form
  • Call 211 (1-833-DIAL211) with questions about your tier or other general questions about COVID-19
  • YubaNet will be hosting weekly, short webinars every Thursday at noon to provide updates on COVID-19 and vaccine distribution in Nevada County. Register here – only one registration for all webinars is required.

Vaccination is an essential tool for ending this pandemic. Even after you are vaccinated, we must all stay vigilant and continue to wear masks, keep our distance, wash our hands, and avoid gatherings so that we can return to a more normal way of life as quickly as possible.

Connecting Point and Community Partners Celebrate National 211 Day

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Today, February 11th is 211 Day and, for the first time, it is being celebrated nationwide. 211 Day spreads awareness of how the service supports the community with information and resources.

211 is Nevada County’s free, multilingual and confidential information and referral system. 211 connects residents to community and health resources and various services, including senior care, transportation, housing assistance, suicide prevention and disaster services. 211 is available 24/7, 365 days a year (including holidays) and serves the people of Nevada County, Placer County, and the Tahoe-Truckee region.

Our local 211 call center has been serving the community since September 2013. Ann Guerra, executive director of Connecting Point, which operates the call center, credits the success of 211 to the collaboration with the local nonprofits and County offices. “We are so grateful for community partnerships that have allowed the 211 service to flourish.”  These partnerships include Nevada County Social Services and Office of Emergency Services, First Five Commission and Agency on Aging Area 4.

But most recently, as COVID-19 vaccine information is in high demand in the community, a strong partnership between 211 Connecting Point and Nevada County Public Health has helped meet the need. Together they have launched the Nevada County COVID-19 Vaccine Alert Text Line, in which users can text VACCINEINFO to 898211 to subscribe and be kept up-to-date with all the latest and most accurate information regarding the COVID-19 vaccines.

Nevada County residents can access 211 by:

  • Calling 2-1-1 (or 1-833-DIAL211; for TTY 1-844-521-6697).
  • Texting their zip code to 898211 (your text plan’s rates will apply)
  • Visiting 211ConnectingPoint.org to access the online searchable database and email or chat with specialists.

Connecting Point and Community Partners Celebrate National 211 Day

Posted on

Today, February 11th is 211 Day and, for the first time, it is being celebrated nationwide. 211 Day spreads awareness of how the service supports the community with information and resources.

211 is Nevada County’s free, multilingual and confidential information and referral system. 211 connects residents to community and health resources and various services, including senior care, transportation, housing assistance, suicide prevention and disaster services. 211 is available 24/7, 365 days a year (including holidays) and serves the people of Nevada County, Placer County, and the Tahoe-Truckee region.

Our local 211 call center has been serving the community since September 2013. Ann Guerra, executive director of Connecting Point, which operates the call center, credits the success of 211 to the collaboration with the local nonprofits and County offices. “We are so grateful for community partnerships that have allowed the 211 service to flourish.”  These partnerships include Nevada County Social Services and Office of Emergency Services, First Five Commission and Agency on Aging Area 4.

But most recently, as COVID-19 vaccine information is in high demand in the community, a strong partnership between 211 Connecting Point and Nevada County Public Health has helped meet the need. Together they have launched the Nevada County COVID-19 Vaccine Alert Text Line, in which users can text VACCINEINFO to 898211 to subscribe and be kept up-to-date with all the latest and most accurate information regarding the COVID-19 vaccines.

Nevada County residents can access 211 by:

  • Calling 2-1-1 (or 1-833-DIAL211; for TTY 1-844-521-6697).
  • Texting their zip code to 898211 (your text plan’s rates will apply)
  • Visiting 211ConnectingPoint.org to access the online searchable database and email or chat with specialists.

Nevada County and Tahoe Forest Hospital Vaccinate TTUSD Teachers

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On Wednesday February 3, 2021, teachers from the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District received their first COVID-19 vaccinations, administered by Tahoe Forest Hospital staff and school nurses from Tahoe Truckee Unified School District. Nevada County is currently in Phase 1B of COVID-19 vaccinations, which includes essential frontline workers. Vaccinating educators helps children remain in or return to the classroom, where critical social interactions and the best learning takes place, while preventing outbreaks in congregate school settings and supporting parents to remain in the workplace.

“I am so thankful for the amazing collaboration between all parties – Nevada County, Tahoe Forest Hospital, Placer County and the school district,” said Kim Szczurek, Tahoe Truckee Unified School District Board President.  “The work of these entities, both by the elected officials and the Superintendent Chief Learning Officer, County Executive Officer, TFH CEO, and their staffs make me so proud.  We have done this to protect our TTUSD staff with one goal in mind – focusing on the education and social and emotional well-being of our kids.”

The Tahoe Truckee educator clinic is the biggest single-day COVID-19 vaccination clinic hosted in Nevada County so far, with approximately 700 teachers and school support staff vaccinated in one day. Tahoe Forest Hospital took the lead in making this event happen for the Tahoe Truckee community.

“Tahoe Forest Health System is very happy to assist in the vaccination efforts for our educational staff in our region,” said Harry Weis, President and CEO of Tahoe Forest Health System. “Helping the students, teachers, staff and our schools return to a greater sense of normalcy or health security is very important to us!”

“From a public health perspective, we recognize the value of vaccinating school staff,” said Jill Blake, Nevada County’s Public Health Director.  “National data tells us that families and women in particular have been negatively impacted by schools closing, with many forced to leave the workplace and stay home because there is no school for their children and they cannot afford childcare. These vaccinations help keep teachers safe, children engaged, and parents employed.”

Nevada County has received 10,625 vaccines to-date, which includes first and second doses of the vaccine. Nevada County has partnered with local hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and local healthcare providers to vaccinate our community.

“The complexity associated with vaccination programming and the actual scarcity of the vaccine has put the County in a really tough position,” said District 5 Supervisor Hardy Bullock. “Vaccinating educators and getting our schools back toward a more normal operation is a top priority. It allows our families to return to work, our children to begin learning and connect socially, and get our economy back on track. We want every person to get vaccinated. This group of educators is a catalyst, not only for learning but now our entire economy and social connection. County Public Health staff and all the officials from the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District, Tahoe Forest Hospital, Placer and Nevada County have been working full time on this. I’m so proud of this decision and our teamwork; this is how government serves and leads.”

More Information

While COVID-19 vaccine supply is still limited, California is prioritizing vaccines for specific groups based on exposure risks, health risks, and health equity. My Turn is the State of California’s new tool where you can find out if it’s your turn to get vaccinated and schedule vaccination appointments. If it isn’t your turn yet, you can register to be notified when you become eligible. Although there are currently no appointments available in Nevada County via this system, we expect this to change over the next few weeks. 

Find more information and ways to receive updates on COVID-19 vaccines in Nevada County at www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus/vaccine. Vaccination is an essential tool for ending this pandemic. Even after you are vaccinated, we must all stay vigilant and continue to wear masks, keep our distance, wash our hands, and avoid gatherings so that we can return to a more normal way of life as quickly as possible.

Text PLACERVACCINE to 898211 for Updates from 211

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Placer County has partnered with 211 Connecting Point to provide the community with text updates when new information about the COVID-19 vaccine in Placer County becomes available. Residents can subscribe to find out updates like when, where and to what populations the COVID-19 vaccine has become available to.

Text PLACERVACCINE to 898211

Subscribe to vaccine text updates by texting PlacerVaccine to 898211. Subscribers will receive official, non-emergency information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine(s). All new subscribers must opt-in to the alerts for ongoing updates.

Subscribers will get a confirmation reading: “Thank you for joining Placer 211’s COVID-19 Vaccine text alerts. You will receive information and updates related to COVID-19 vaccines in Placer County. Visit Placer.ca.gov/6996/Vaccine to learn more.” Standard msg and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt-out, Text HELP for technical assistance. For terms and conditions for texting with 898211, please visit: https://educationalmessageservices.com/policies

 Residents can also get the most up-to-date information by visiting the County’s COVID vaccine webpage at Placer.ca.gov/6996/Vaccine or by calling 211 Connecting Point at 1-833-DIAL211 to speak to a local call center agent, 24/7 in English or Spanish.

Standard msg and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out, for end user privacy terms and conditions, visit:  https://educationalmessageservices.com/policies/

Text VACCINEINFO to 898211 for Vaccine Updates from Public Health and 211

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Nevada County Public Health has partnered with 211 Connecting Point to provide the community text updates when new information about the COVID-19 vaccine in Nevada County becomes available. Residents can subscribe to find out updates like when, where and to what populations the COVID-19 has become available to.

“We are so grateful for the community’s enthusiasm to get the COVID-19 vaccine and excited to be able to work with 211 Connecting Point to let the community know as soon as it becomes available to them,” said Jill Blake, Nevada County Director of Public Health.

Ann Guerra, Executive Director of Connecting Point added that partnering with NCPH “allows us to stay in touch with Nevada County residents and give them the latest, most accurate information as soon as it’s released to the public.”

Text VACCINEINFO to 898211

Subscribe to vaccine text updates by texting VaccineInfo to 898211. Subscribers will receive official, non- emergency information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine(s). All new subscribers must opt-in to the alerts for ongoing updates.

Subscribers will get a confirmation reading: “Thank you for joining 211’s COVID-19 Vaccine News & Information text alerts. You will receive information and updates related to COVID-19 vaccines in Nevada County. Visit www.mynevadacounty.com/Coronavirus/Vaccine to learn more.”

 Residents can also get the most up-to-date information by visiting the County’s COVID vaccine webpage www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus/vaccine or by calling 211 Connecting Point at 1-833-DIAL211 to speak to a local call center agent, 24/7 in English or Spanish.

For more information, visit Nevada County Public Health’s vaccine information page at www.mynevadacounty.com/Coronavirus/Vaccine. 

Nevada County Exits COVID-19 Stay Home Order into Purple Tier

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The State has lifted the Regional Stay Home Order for the Greater Sacramento Region, which includes Nevada County. Due to Nevada County’s current daily average of COVID-19 cases and positivity rate, Nevada County will be exiting the Stay Home Order into the Widespread Purple Tier.  

Although this is welcome news that our ICU capacity is projected to be above 15%, Nevada County remains well into the Widespread Purple Tier with significant business modifications. Nevada County Public Health continues to thank the community for wearing a mask, being mindful of social distancing and refraining from social gatherings. Together, we can stop the surge to save lives and work towards lowering our daily COVID-19 cases and positivity rate which may allow us to move into the less restrictive Red Tier.

Moving into the Widespread Purple Tier

As we move back into the Widespread Purple Tier, some businesses will be able to reopen with modifications. Most notably, these are:

  • Hair Salons/Barbershops/Personal Care: Open with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Hotels and Lodging: Open with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Movie Theaters: Outdoor only with modifications in Purple Tier
  • Wineries: Outdoor only with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Restaurants: Outdoor dining with modifications allowed in Purple Tier

Find a summary of the differences between the State’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” tier system on California Department of Public Health’s website.

COVID Vaccines in Nevada County

Nevada County Public Health is working to vaccinate Nevada County as quickly, safely and equitably as possible. Bookmark www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus/vaccine for updates on where we are in our local vaccine rollout. 

More Information

For more information visit www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus.

Nevada County Exits COVID-19 Stay Home Order into Purple Tier

Posted on

The State has lifted the Regional Stay Home Order for the Greater Sacramento Region, which includes Nevada County. Due to Nevada County’s current daily average of COVID-19 cases and positivity rate, Nevada County will be exiting the Stay Home Order into the Widespread Purple Tier.  

Although this is welcome news that our ICU capacity is projected to be above 15%, Nevada County remains well into the Widespread Purple Tier with significant business modifications. Nevada County Public Health continues to thank the community for wearing a mask, being mindful of social distancing and refraining from social gatherings. Together, we can stop the surge to save lives and work towards lowering our daily COVID-19 cases and positivity rate which may allow us to move into the less restrictive Red Tier.

Moving into the Widespread Purple Tier

As we move back into the Widespread Purple Tier, some businesses will be able to reopen with modifications. Most notably, these are:

  • Hair Salons/Barbershops/Personal Care: Open with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Hotels and Lodging: Open with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Movie Theaters: Outdoor only with modifications in Purple Tier
  • Wineries: Outdoor only with modifications in the Purple Tier
  • Restaurants: Outdoor dining with modifications allowed in Purple Tier

Find a summary of the differences between the State’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” tier system on California Department of Public Health’s website.

COVID Vaccines in Nevada County

Nevada County Public Health is working to vaccinate Nevada County as quickly, safely and equitably as possible. Bookmark www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus/vaccine for updates on where we are in our local vaccine rollout. 

More Information

For more information visit www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus.

Nevada County Increases COVID-19 Testing at Grass Valley Testing Site

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Nevada County’s Grass Valley COVID-19 testing site has increased testing to six days a week to add 165 more tests to its weekly testing capacity, an increase of more that 15% of the testing site’s previous capacity. Placer County’s Truckee COVID-19 testing site also recently increased their daily testing capacity as well.

Testing is available for anyone, whether or not you have insurance. You must pre-register and schedule an appointment at https://www.lhi.care/covidtesting or call 1-888-634-1123. For assistance scheduling a COVID-19 test, contact 211 Connecting Point at 1-833-DIAL211 to speak to a local call specialist.

Appointments are available Monday-Saturday, 7:00am to 7:00pm in Grass Valley and Monday-Friday 7:00am to 7:00pm in Truckee. Return time for results may vary and can be expected within 2-7 days. The Grass Valley testing site is located at 231 Colfax Avenue (formerly Summer Thymes) and the Truckee testing site is located at 10990 Donner Pass Road (across the street from the Tahoe Forest Health System). COVID-19 testing may also be available through your local physician’s office and is becoming more readily available through private companies as well. Visit www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus/testing for more information.

If You’ve Tested Positive for COVID-19                                         

Nevada County currently has widespread transmission of COVID-19 and is under a Stay Home Order due to available ICU capacity in the State’s Greater Sacramento Region. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, please follow the Isolation Guidance and share the Quarantine Guidance with your close contacts. 

Rental Assistance Available for Residents Impacted by COVID-19

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The TBRA program has now been extended through Sept. 30, 2021. Call 211 today if you are interested in applying.

The Placer County Housing Authority and the Community Development Resource Agency HOME program are offering rental assistance to eligible low-income residents who are facing hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Tenant Based Rental Assistance program offers assistance for up to four months of unpaid back rent and late fees accrued after March 13, 2020 (not to exceed $2,500), and is limited to funds available. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the California Department of Housing and Community Development. 

To be eligible for the program, an individual or family must be renting or leasing a unit within the county (excluding Roseville city limits), among other criteria. See a full list of eligibility criteria here Headline.

Households interested in applying for rental assistance through the program should call 211 Placer, by dialing 211 or 1-833-DIAL211. Operators will screen callers’ eligibility and refer them to the county for the application. 

“We encourage anyone wondering if they might be eligible to go ahead and call 211 Placer,” said Human Services Assistant Director Greg Geisler. “This is a valuable resource for some families struggling to stay afloat.”