Merced County coronavirus cases rise to 85, as health order modifies park, golf course access
Confirmed persons infected with coronavirus in Merced County rose to 85 Friday, up from 82 Thursday, according to County Public Health.
Residents having recovered from the disease remained at 28. Active cases, meaning individuals who are still sick, stand at 54, according to County Public Health. Three people have died from COVID-19 related complications in the county.
County Public Health added Delhi to the list of county communities reporting specific case numbers Friday, with six confirmed cases. Numbers are disclosed only for areas with at least five ill residents.
Los Banos still leads the county with 32 of the total infected residents, up one from Thursday.
As of Friday, there are 28,863 confirmed coronavirus cases in California and 1,019 deaths.
Merced County announced Friday that the local stay-at-home order was amended to modified recreation in parks and golf courses, effective immediately.
“After careful consideration, in an effort to maintain physical and mental health during this stressful time, the Department feels it’s necessary to promote options for wellness while still adhering to the safety measures in the Health Officer order,” said Department of Public Health Director Dr. Rebecca Nanyonjo-Kemp in a news release.
However, residents must still prioritize social distancing and are encouraged to wear cloth face coverings, the release said.
The revised order allows for golf courses to resume under restrictions and an approved operational guideline. Pro-shops, driving ranges and any restaurants or bars located on-site must remain closed, according to the release.
Green open spaces at parks are now accessible to residents, along with park pathways, but picnic areas, BBQs, and other related facilities at parks remain closed.
