Note: This article is updated with the latest data and information when it's available.
What to Know for Feb. 4
- Proposed state legislation aims to add COVID immunization to the student registry. If passed, it would could kick in next school year.
- The Army said it will immediately begin discharging soldiers who have refused to get the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine, putting more than 3,300 service members at risk of being thrown out soon.
- San Diego County reported 2,736 new COVID-19 infections and 29 deaths
The pandemic reached San Diego County in mid-March 2020. Local health officials continue to provide updates on the spread of the novel coronavirus in our region. We will bring you the latest news here, as often as we can. You can count on us.
Omicron variant in US:
Get top local stories in San Diego delivered to you every morning. >Sign up for NBC San Diego's News Headlines newsletter.
COVID-19 in San Diego County
San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) officials have reported 708,770 positive COVID-19 cases and 4,786 deaths since Feb. 14, 2020 (with latest data through Feb. 3, 2022).
Since the county's first coronavirus-related shut down in March 2020, San Diego has been through COVID surges, a second stay-at-home under, California's now-defunct color-coded COVID-19 tier system (we hit all the colors: purple, red, orange, yellow), and another surge in the summer of 2021.
The coronavirus vaccine arrived in San Diego County in mid-December 2020. The spring of 2021 brought a downward trend in cases and, by June 15, California -- including San Diego County -- was able to fully reopen and get retire the tiered system, meaning the lifting of most pandemic-related restrictions.
But the introduction of variants sent cases skyrocketing at the end of the year and by December 2021, a mask mandate was back, schools and workplaces were back to remote options and hospitals were facing staffing shortages and filled beds, again.
Helpful Data: Post-June 15 in San Diego County, County vaccination demographics; Map of case rates by city and ZIP; COVID-19 case totals by age and gender; Map of case totals by city of residence; Case totals by race/ethnicity; Tests reported by day; Statistics regarding hospitalized patients; Statistics regarding deceased patients.
Here is San Diego County's Public Health Order, as of June 15, 2021.
Updates For February 2022
San Diego County public health officials release daily COVID-19 data here. NBC 7 will continue to update this article weekly (and as often as we can).
Feb. 4
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency reported 2,736 new COVID-19 infections and 29 deaths Friday as hospitalizations dropped by 91 patients.
Friday's data increases the cumulative case and death totals to 708,770 infections and 4,786 deaths. The latest state data for hospitalizations showed 1,014 patients in area hospitals with COVID-19, a decrease of 8.2% from Thursday.
The patients in intensive care beds decreased by seven to 199, and total ICU beds available declined by 14 to 157.
Along with a seven-day average positivity rate of 17.1% -- down from 19.8% on Tuesday -- there is evidence to believe the Omicron variant is on the wane.
Hospitalizations and deaths are considered a lagging factor, so the above-average deaths due to the virus may be a result of the Omicron spike in December and January, officials said. Additionally, actual case counts may be higher due to the increasing popularity and availability of home antigen tests, results of which are not reported to the county.
However, since the beginning of the year, COVID-19 has claimed the lives of 225 San Diegans.
"There is a common misconception that the Omicron variant is not as deadly as prior strains of COVID-19," said Dr. Wilma J. Wooten, county public health officer. "The latest data show that since the Omicron variant was first identified, COVID-19 deaths are on the rise, both here in San Diego and across the country.
"While you can still get COVID-19 despite being vaccinated and boosted, the vaccine keeps most people out of the hospital and reduces the risk of virus-related deaths," she said.
A total of 1,072,823 (51.8%) of San Diego County residents who are fully vaccinated have received a booster shot, according to the HHSA. Boosters are currently available for everyone 12 years and older.
The county has more than 400 vaccination sites including pharmacies, medical providers, clinics and county locations. Appointments can be made and sites can be found by calling 833-422-4255 or visiting the MyTurn or coronavirus-sd.com websites.
Nearly 2.88 million, or 91.4%, of San Diego County residents age 5 and older are at least partially vaccinated and more than 2.53 million, or 80.4%, are fully vaccinated.
Feb. 1
End of the Surge?: Modeling by Scripps Health predicts that the current surge of COVID-19 hospitalizations should wind down by early March, with a slow decrease in patient volume driven by the Omicron variant of the virus over the coming weeks, the health system said Tuesday.
However, officials said staffing demands at Scripps facilities will remain high as hospitals stay busy with cases unrelated to COVID and as other patients reschedule procedures that were deferred during the latest wave of virus cases.
According to the health system, daily COVID volumes at Scripps' five hospital campuses peaked two weeks ago with 356 admissions, including 62 patients in ICUs. That compared to a pre-holiday volume in mid-November of 78 patients, with 31 in ICUs.
According to Scripps, the accuracy level of the modeling, has been "extremely high," running in the low- to mid-90% range during all three of the major COVID surges -- the Alpha variant in the winter of 2020, the Delta variant in the summer of 2021 and the Omicron variant that arrived this winter.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID-positive patients in all San Diego County hospitals continued to drop on Tuesday, decreasing by 22 people to 1,158. Of those patients, 214 were in intensive care, up three from Monday.
The number of available ICU beds increased by two to 174 on Tuesday.
Some patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
Cases and Deaths: The latest numbers come one day after San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency reported 2,049 new positive COVID-19 tests and 21 more deaths associated with the virus. That brought the county's cumulative totals to 697,429 cases and 4,686 deaths.
Testing: There were 37,858 new tests reported Friday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 25.2%, down from 26.6% the previous Tuesday. The county reports this figure on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Vaccinations and Boosters: A total of 1,021,730 (49.9%) of San Diego County residents who are fully vaccinated have received a booster shot, according to the HHSA. Boosters are currently available for everyone 12 years and older.
According to HHSA data, of the 996 hospitalizations reported between Dec. 14 and Jan. 12, a total of 91 San Diego County residents who were boosted ended up in a hospital.
The county has more than 400 vaccination sites including pharmacies, medical providers, clinics and county locations. Appointments can be made and sites can be found by calling 833-422-4255 or visiting the MyTurn or coronavirus-sd.com websites.
More than 2.85 million, or 90.8%, of San Diego County residents age 5 and older are at least partially vaccinated and more than 2.51 million, or 79.9%, are fully vaccinated.
Jan. 28
Free N95 Masks: Around 400 million masks set aside by the federal government for Americans are now available, some at San Diego County pharmacies. Find out who has them here.
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency reported 6,314 new COVID-19 cases and 22 deaths Friday. Friday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 686,003 cases and 4,665 deaths.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals decreased by 17 people to 1,253, according to Friday's state data. Of those patients, 213 were in intensive care, down six from Thursday. The number of available ICU beds decreased by eight to 164 on Friday.
Some patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
Testing: There were 37,858 new tests reported on Friday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 25.2%, down from 26.6% on Tuesday. The county reports this figure on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Vaccinations: A total of 1,021,730 -- or 49.9% of San Diegans who are fully vaccinated -- have received a booster, according to the HHSA. Boosters are currently available for everyone 12 years and older.
According to HHSA data, of the 996 hospitalizations reported between Dec. 14 and Jan. 12, a total of 91 San Diegans who were boosted ended up in the hospital.
Vaccinations: The county has more than 400 vaccination sites including pharmacies, medical providers, clinics and county locations. Appointments can be made and sites can be found by calling 833-422-4255 or visiting the MyTurn or coronavirus-sd.com websites.
More than 2.85 million, or 90.8%, of San Diegans age 5 and older are at least partially vaccinated and more than 2.51 million, or 79.9%, are fully vaccinated.
Jan. 27
Cass and Deaths: San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency reported 6,573 new COVID-19 cases and 21 deaths Thursday. Thursday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 681,885 cases and 4,643 deaths.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals decreased by six people to 1,270, according to Thursday's state data. Of those patients, 219 were in intensive care, down five from Wednesday. The number of available ICU beds decreased by two to 172 on Thursday.
Vaccinations and Boosters: A total of 1,021,730 -- or 49.9% of San Diegans who are fully vaccinated -- have received a booster, according to the HHSA. Boosters are currently available for everyone 12 years and older.
According to HHSA data, of the 996 hospitalizations reported between Dec. 14 and Jan. 12, a total of 91 San Diegans who were boosted ended up in the hospital.
The county has more than 400 vaccination sites including pharmacies, medical providers, clinics and county locations. You can also make an appointment or find a nearby site by calling 833-422-4255 or visiting the MyTurn or coronavirus-sd.com websites.
More than 2.85 million or 90.8% of San Diegans age 5 and older are at least partially vaccinated and more than 2.51 million or 79.9% are fully vaccinated.
Testing: There were 42,736 new tests reported on Tuesday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 26.6%, down from 27.5% on Friday. The county reports this figure on Tuesdays and Fridays
Jan. 26
COVID-19 Booster Shots: Recently released research from the CDC shows that COVID-19 boosters are effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalizations.
Of the 996 hospitalizations reported in the 30-day period Dec. 14, 2021, through Jan. 12, 2022, a total of 91 (9.1%) San Diegans who were boosted ended up in the hospital, according to county data.
Omicron Subvariant: Public health officials confirmed on Jan. 26, that there have been three cases of a new subvariant of omicron, known as the "stealth" version, recorded in San Diego County since Christmas.
Cases, Testing, Deaths: Health officials reported 6,108 new COVID-19 cases. bringing the total to 675,250 and 18 deaths bringing the total to 4,622.
A total of 60,548 cases were reported last week (Jan. 19 through Jan. 25, 2022) compared to 69,151 COVID-19 infections identified the previous week (Jan. 12 through Jan. 18, 2022). San Diego County’s case rate per 100,000 residents is 185.1 for people fully vaccinated and boosted, 336.4 for fully vaccinated people and 504.0 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
Jan. 25
Cases, Testing and Deaths: Daily test totals reported from Jan. 20 to Jan. 23 demand declined each day, and by around 55% over the four-day span. The county also saw fewer cases reported Tuesday (6,333) coinciding with the downtrend in testing numbers. However, 19 new COVID-19-related deaths were reported.
Over the last seven days, the county has averaged 42,736 tests per day. And of the total number of tests reported over that span, 26.6% returned a positive result (Data includes people who tested positive more than once).
Hospitalizations: Meanwhile, the number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals decreased by nine people to 1,288 on Tuesday, according to the latest state data. Of those patients, 232 were in intensive care, up five from Monday.
Some patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
The number of available ICU beds decreased by three to 178 on Tuesday.
To help alleviate the strain on local hospitals, the HHSA recommends that only people needing emergency care go to a hospital emergency department. COVID-19 testing should be reserved for those at higher risk of serious illness and people who need it the most.
People should not go to an emergency department for testing with no or mild COVID symptoms, officials said.
Jan. 24
San Diego County reported 22,847 COVID-19 cases from Friday to Sunday. Based on data collected Sunday, 20 new deaths and 108 new hospitalizations were reported.
Jan. 20
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County's Health and Human Services Agency reported 11,235 new COVID-19 cases and seven deaths in its latest data.
Friday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 639,139 cases and 4,566 deaths.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals decreased by 15 people to 1,288 on Friday, according to the latest state data.
Of the hospitalized patients, 205 were in intensive care, down nine from the previous day.
At-Home Test Ordering: The federal government rolled out a program this week that allows every residential household in the United States to order up to four at-home COVID-19 test kits free of charge. Tests can be ordered online at COVIDtests.gov. Those ordering the test kits need only provide a name and address. No identification, credit card or health insurance information is required.
Vaccinations and Boosters: To date, 959,697 San Diegans have received vaccine booster shots. The CDC recommends a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot five months after the second dose. A Johnson & Johnson booster is recommended two months after the second dose. Pfizer boosters have been approved for everyone 12 years and older. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters are only available for adults 18 years and older.
More than 2.83 million San Diegans -- around 90% of those eligible -- have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 2.5 million -- or 79.5% -- are fully vaccinated.
Testing: There were 75,673 new tests reported Friday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 27.5%, down from 29.3% on Tuesday. The county reports this figure on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Jan. 19
After a long holiday weekend, San Diego Count released three days worth of COVID-19 numbers, which appeared to show what UC San Diego's top doctor said was the county "sliding down the Omicron slope."
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County recorded more than 35,000 new COVID- 19 cases from Friday to Monday, pushing the county's cumulative cases over the 600,000 mark, the county Health and Human Services Agency reported in its most recent data.
The county reported 10,990 new cases on Friday, 8,991 on Saturday, 7,460 on Sunday and 8,013 on Monday for a total of 35,454 new cases over the holiday weekend.
There were 40,017 new tests reported Friday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 28.9%, up from 28.8% on Thursday.
The new data from the HHSA -- along with another three deaths reported over the same stretch -- increased the county's cumulative totals to 604,078 cases and 4,548 deaths since the pandemic began.
The county doesn't release information on tests, infections or deaths on weekends or holidays.
Hospitalizations: Numbers of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals increased by 29 people to 1,289, according to the latest state data. While still increasing, the hospitalizations spike appears to be becoming less steep, experts said.
Christopher Longhurst, UC San Diego Health's chief medical officer, posted on Twitter that there are "multiple signs we are sliding down the Omicron slope," with case rates and hospitalizations on the decline compared to a week ago.
Of the hospitalized patients, 196 were in intensive care, up three from the previous day.
San Diego County had the second-most COVID-positive hospital patients in California, behind only Los Angeles County.
Some of those patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
Jan. 14
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County reported 9,878 new COVID-19 infections and five deaths.
Friday's data from the county Health and Human Services Agency increased the county's cumulative totals to 568,212 cases and 4,545 deaths since the pandemic began.
Hospitalizations: COVID-related hospitalizations in San Diego County increased by 45 to 1,180 on Friday. Of the hospitalized patients reported, 178 were in intensive care, up one from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds declined by three to 170.
According to state data, COVID-19 hospitalizations more than tripled in the past 30 days, from 354 to 1,180.
Vaccinations in San Diego: More than 2.81 million San Diegans -- around 89.4% of those eligible -- have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 2.49 million -- or 79% - - are fully vaccinated.
To date, 906,615 San Diegans have received booster shots. The CDC recommends a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot five months after the second dose. A Johnson & Johnson booster is recommended two months after the second dose. Pfizer boosters have been approved for everyone 12 years and older. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters are only available for adults 18 years and older.
Testing: There were 40,017 new tests reported Friday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 28.9%, up from 28.8% on Thursday.
To help alleviate the strain on local hospitals and prepare them for the expected surge in admissions, the HHSA recommends that only people needing emergency care should go to a hospital emergency department.
COVID-19 testing should be reserved for those at higher risk of serious illness and people who need it the most. People should not go to an emergency department for testing with no or mild COVID symptoms, she said.
At-Home Testing: Starting on Jan. 19, the website COVIDTests.gov will provide tests at no cost, including no shipping fee, the White House announced.
The White House said “tests will typically ship within 7-12 days of ordering" through the U.S. Postal Service, which reports shipping times of 1-3 days for its first-class package service in the continental United States.
Jan. 13
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County reported 14,437 new COVID-19 infections and 11 deaths.
Thursday's data from the county Health and Human Services Agency increased the county's cumulative totals to 558,356 cases and 4,540 deaths since the pandemic began.
Hsopitalizations: COVID-related hospitalizations in San Diego County increased by 69 to 1,135 on Thursday. Of the hospitalized patients reported, 177 were in intensive care, up 10 from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds declined by four to 173.
According to state data, COVID-19 hospitalizations more than tripled in the past 30 days, from 330 to 1,135.
Some COVID-positive patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
Boosters in San Diego: To date, 906,615 San Diegans have received booster shots. The CDC recommends a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot five months after the second dose. A Johnson & Johnson booster is recommended two months after the second dose. Pfizer boosters have been approved for everyone 12 years and older. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters are only available for adults 18 years and older.
"COVID-19 vaccinations are the best tool we have against the coronavirus and we need more San Diegans to be boosted," said Dr. Wilma J. Wooten, county public health officer. "The vaccines help to prevent people from getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19."
More than 2.81 million San Diegans -- around 89.4% of those eligible -- have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 2.49 million -- or 79% - - are fully vaccinated.
To help alleviate the strain on local hospitals and prepare them for the expected surge in admissions, the HHSA recommends that only people needing emergency care should go to a hospital emergency department.
"Local hospitals and their emergency departments are under extreme stress due to COVID-19 patients, other seasonal viruses and diseases and employees calling out sick," Wooten said.
Testing: COVID-19 testing should be reserved for those at higher risk of serious illness and people who need it the most. People should not go to an emergency department for testing with no or mild COVID symptoms, she said.
There were 54,809 new tests reported Thursday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 28.8%.
SCOTUS Ruling on Vaccine Requirements: The Supreme Court blocked the Biden administration's federal vaccine mandate, which would have required workers at large private companies to be vaccinated against Covid-19 or be regularly tested for the virus.
Jan. 12
Cases and Deaths: The county reported 14,734 new COVID-19 cases and nine new deaths Wednesday. Between Dec. 26 and Jan. 8, the county reported 101,474 new cases, or 18.4% of the county's total since the pandemic began (550,639).
Nine new deaths were reported, bringing the pandemic total to 4,529.
Twenty-eight percent of more than 44,000 COVID-19 tests reported over the last seven days have come back positive.
Jan. 11
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County reported 10,198 new COVID-19 infections and 20 deaths as an "unprecedented" rate of cases and hospitalizations continue to roll in.
Tuesday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 535,924 cases and 4,520 deaths since the pandemic began.
Hospitalizations: COVID-related hospitalizations increased by 73 to 1,061 on Tuesday, which follows a record-setting weekend where hospitals struggled to keep up. Hospitalizations have increased at a steeper rate than when the county reached its peak -- 1,725 on Jan. 11, 2021, according to the latest state figures.
Of the hospitalized patients reported Tuesday, 166 were in intensive care, down two from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds increased by four to 187.
According to state data, COVID-19 hospitalizations have more than tripled in the past 30 days, from 325 to 1,061.
Testing: A total of 12,563 new COVID-19 cases were reported by the county Monday, along with 17,507 on Sunday and 19,009 on Saturday. The previous daily high in cases was 8,313 on Jan. 2.
A total of 31,099 tests were reported Tuesday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 27.9%, up from 27.3% on Monday.
Jan. 10
Cases/Deaths: San Diego County added nearly 50,000 more confirmed COVID-19 cases to its total on Monday when it published single-day totals from Friday (19,009), Saturday (17,507) and Sunday (12,563).
Friday's total set a new pandemic record. No new deaths were reported Monday, keeping the county's total at 4,500.
A total of 46,571 tests were reported, and the county has averaged 39,963 tests per day over the last seven days. Of all tests reported in the last seven days, 27.3% were positive.
Hospitalizations: Through Sunday, the number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals has increased to 943 from 889 on Saturday, according to the latest state figures.
Of those patients, 169 were in intensive care, up nine from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds decreased by one to 169.
Because of a massive influx in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, San Diego County public health officials are urging residents to not only get all vaccinations and the booster shot, but to only seek testing for the illness if necessary.
COVID-19 hospitalizations have more than doubled in the past 30 days, from 303 to 837, putting a strain on local hospitals that are contending with hundreds of employees unable to work after contracting the virus.
At-Home Test Reimbursements: Starting Saturday, private health insurers will be required to cover up to eight home COVID-19 tests per month for people on their plans, the Biden administration announced.
Under the new policy, Americans will be able to either purchase home testing kits for free under their insurance or submit receipts for the tests for reimbursement, up to the monthly per-person limit. A family of four, for instance, could be reimbursed for up to 32 tests per month.
Jan. 7
Due to a massive influx in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, San Diego County public health officials urged residents to not only get all vaccinations and the booster but to only seek testing for the illness if necessary.
Cases/ Deaths: The county Health and Human Services Agency reported 5,922 new infections and five deaths on Friday, increasing the cumulative totals to 477,211 cases and 4,500 deaths.
Hospitalizations: Hospitalizations increased to 837 from 774, according to the latest state figures, up from 510 last Friday. Of those patients, 156 were in intensive care, up to nine from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds increased by 15 to 195. Some COVID-positive patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
Jan. 6
San Diego County residents were being urged Thursday to avoid emergency rooms for COVID-19 testing, amid increases in both hospitalizations and staffing shortages exacerbated by a surge in coronavirus infections.
The number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals continues to climb at a quicker pace than any other time in the pandemic, an increase of more than 400 since Christmas, according to the latest state figures.
There were 774 people in the county hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Thursday, up from 717 on Wednesday, 682 on Tuesday, 664 on Monday, 628 on Sunday, 590 on Saturday, 510 on Friday and 475 last Thursday.
Of those patients, 147 were in intensive care, up six from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds increased by one, to 180.
Some COVID-positive patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests.
The county health and human services agency recommended that people worried about COVID-19 infection and others seeking COVID-19 testing only go to a hospital to be tested if they have severe symptoms.
"Do not go to an emergency department just to get tested, and only go when you have symptoms that need emergency care," said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, county deputy public health officer. "If you're experiencing no COVID-19 symptoms, have mild illness or have not been exposed to someone who tested positive, go to one of the many testing locations available in the region."
Together, all testing sites in the county have the capacity for around 45,000 tests daily. The HHSA said rapid antigen tests, which are available at many local pharmacies, are a good option if a testing site is unavailable. Those who test positive on a rapid test should follow the health care guidance and generally do not need a confirmatory PCR test unless one is recommended by a doctor.
"Currently, there is a high demand for COVID-19 testing, so we're asking San Diegans to be patient as testing traffic can surge and sites can be very busy," Kaiser said.
A total of 5,726 new infections were reported on Thursday. The cumulative total for the region's cases increased to 471,278 while deaths remained unchanged at 4,495.
A total of 24,344 tests were reported Thursday, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 25.4%, up from 25.3% up on Wednesday.
Dozens of city workers received advanced termination notices this week for failure to comply with the city's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for employees.
City officials reported 86 employees were sent the notifications, far fewer than the more than 900 sent letters providing some options in December.
A city spokesman reported this week that 85% of its around 11,300 employees were fully vaccinated, 9,695 in total with 1,095 requesting a religious or medical exemption.
City employees had until Monday to get the vaccine or select from a list of other options such as requesting a religious or medical exemption, taking leave without pay, resigning or retiring.
Those who chose none of the above options were sent termination notices and could face a hearing with "all due process rights and rights to representation."
However, those employees who become fully vaccinated before they receive the final termination notice will not be fired, city officials said.
UC San Diego announced Thursday that its remote instruction period would be expanded through January due to a surge in new COVID-19 cases.
In a statement, UCSD Chancellor Pradeep Khosla said the spread of the omicron variant has led to staffing shortages and impacts to student attendance, prompting the university to delay the return to in-person instruction until Jan. 31.
Jan. 5
On a day when cases continued to surge in the county, state and country, it was no surprise when California officials extended the indoor mask mandate, through at least Feb. 15.
Officials said on Wednesday that 8,204 San Diegans had tested positive for the coronavirus on Jan. 4.
COVID-19 was blamed for eight new deaths, and the pandemic was blamed for 117 new hospitalizations as well. Two people were admitted to ICU's for treatment on Tuesday.
There were 45,017 cases reported in the past week (Dec. 29 through Jan. 4), as compared with 16,657 cases identified the previous week (Dec. 22-28).
Jan. 4
The number of COVID-positive patients in San Diego County hospitals continues to climb at a pace not seen since August, according to the latest state figures. There were 682 people in the county hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Tuesday, up from 664 on Monday, 628 on Sunday, 590 on Saturday, 510 on Friday and 475 on Thursday.
Of those patients, 121 were in intensive care, down one from the previous day. The number of available ICU beds increased by seven to 188. Some COVID-positive patients may have been hospitalized for other reasons and had their COVID status discovered by hospital-mandated tests, according to the state health department.
The San Diego County Office of Education will begin distributing more than 200,000 COVID test kits for public and charter schools Wednesday, part of around six million at-home antigen tests Gov. Gavin Newsom promised across the state on Dec. 22. Newsom said he intended they be distributed so students can test before they return to school from winter break.
Because the Office of Education has only received a partial allocation from the state, it will distribute test kits on a first-come, first-served basis to districts and charter schools. Families will be contacted by their district or school on how to receive the test kits, an SDCOE statement read.
San Diego County recommended that people worried about COVID-19 infection and others seeking COVID-19 testing only go to a hospital to be tested if they have severe symptoms.
Those with mild COVID-19 symptoms should contact their health care provider via phone or telehealth for guidance.
Jan. 3
Cases and Deaths: Officials said on Monday that 8,313 people had tested positive for the coronavirus on Sunday. There were 7 new deaths being attributed to complications due to COVID-19.
Testing: 13,587 tests were performed, for a positivity rate of 61.2%. San Diegans have reported difficulty in getting tested in recent days, whether it's due to long lines at public testing centers or a lack of available over-the counter tests.
Hospitalizations: There were 116 new hospitalizations reported by the county on Monday, but only one new patient required treatment in an intensive care unit.
Jan. 2
Hospitalizations: The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals has surged past 600, according to the latest state figures out Sunday. There were 628 people in the county hospitalized with COVID-19 as of
Sunday, up from 590 on Saturday. Of those patients, 124 were in intensive care,
up 10 from the previous day.
San Diego County has the second highest number of COVID hospitalizations in the state, overtaking San Bernardino County, which reported 624. Los Angeles County had the highest number of hospitalizations at 1,792.
Cases: No case updates were provided over the holiday weekend.
Dec. 30
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County public health officials said that 5,976 people in the county had tested positive for COVID-19 cases on Wednesday. Eight additional deaths caused by the complications of COVID were reported.
The case total was the largest single-day tally recorded, eclipsing the 4,550 cases reported Jan. 7
Testing: The San Diego Library gave away more than 20,000 free COVID-19 test
kits to the community in just a few days. The system is completely out
of the testing kits. The positivity rate rose to 17.5%.
In an effort to reduce the spread of the virus, officials urged San Diegans to avoid large celebrations on New Year's Eve
Dec. 29
Cases: San Diego County public health officials reported 3,653 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday. The case total was the largest single-day tally since Jan. 7 of this year, when 4,550 cases were reported, the highest during the pandemic.
Case Rate: Officials said 28,472 tests were performed, a positivity rate of 12.8%
Dec. 26
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 2,681 new COVID-19 cases and three additional deaths associated with the virus in
their latest data.
Hospitalizations: The county's COVID hospitalizations increased from 355 Sunday to 404, while the number of those patients in intensive care increased from 92 to 95, according to the latest state figures.
Case Rate: A total of 7,227 tests were reported in San Diego County over the weekend, and the seven-day average positivity rate was 11.3%, up from 7.4% as of Thursday.
Dec. 23
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 1,856 new COVID-19 cases and 10 additional deaths associated with the virus in
their latest data.
Hospitalizations: The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals
decreased by eight people to 355, according to the latest state figures. Of
those patients, 96 were in intensive care, down four from Wednesday.
Dec. 22
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 819 new COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths (with data through December 20, 2021)
Case Rate: A total of 9,558 new tests were reported to the county on Tuesday. A
total of 5.5% of all tests returned positive for the virus.
FDA Approved Pfizer Pill: U.S. health regulators on Wednesday authorized the first pill against COVID-19, a Pfizer drug that Americans will be able to take at home to head off the worst effects of the virus.
Dec. 20
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 1,447 new COVID-19 cases and six deaths, as the cumulative number of cases since the pandemic began crossed the 400,000 threshold.
Monday's data increased the totals to 400,660 cases and 4,412 deaths.
Case Rate: A total of 16,442 new tests were reported to the county on Monday. A
total of 5.1% of all tests returned positive for the virus over the past week.
Vaccinations: More than 2.72 million county residents, around 86.5% of all eligible
residents, have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. More than
2.42 million San Diegans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, representing
roughly 76.9% of eligible residents. Additionally, 601,951 booster shots have been administered in the region.
Omicron Variant: Omicron has raced ahead of other variants and is now the dominant version of the coronavirus in the U.S., accounting for 73% of new infections last week, federal health officials said Monday.
Dec. 17
Cases: County public health officials reported 1,032 new COVID-19 infections
and seven additional deaths associated with the virus on Friday, increasing the
region's cumulative totals to 397,374 cases and 4,406 deaths since the pandemic
began.
The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals increased by four people to 371, according to the latest state figures released today. Of those patients, 91 were in intensive care, eight fewer than Friday.
Dec. 16
New Cases: San Diego County public health officials Thursday reported 578 new COVID-19 infections and four additional deaths, increasing the region's cumulative totals to 396,307 cases and 4,399 deaths since the pandemic began.
The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals remained unchanged at 359, according to Thursday's data. Of those patients, 92 were in intensive care, two fewer than Wednesday.
A total of 22,529 new tests were reported to the county on Thursday. A total of 4% of all tests returned positive over the past week.
San Diego Vaccinations: As of Wednesday, more than 5.89 million doses of the three vaccines now available have been administered throughout the region.
More than 2.72 million San Diego County residents have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, around 86.5% of all eligible residents. More than 2.42 million San Diegans, or 76.9% of eligible residents, are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In addition, 601,951 booster shots have been administered in the region.
Pfzier, Moderna vs. J&J: The CDC is giving preferential recommendation to mRNA vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna over the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine due to rare but serious blood clots associated with the latter.
Dr. Isaac See of the CDC said health officials have confirmed 54 cases of the blood clots -- nine of which have been fatal -- and two additional deaths suspected to be related to the blood clotting issue.
Dec. 15
Four New Omicron Cases: An additional four cases of the Omicron variant were reported in San Diego County Wednesday, the same day the state reinstated an indoor mask mandate for Californians 2 and older, regardless of their vaccination status.
The two previously reported cases of the variant involved fully-vaccinated patients who had received their booster shots, while the four omicron patients reported Wednesday were fully vaccinated but had not received booster shots, according to county records.
The Delta variant still remains the predominant variant of concern, county health officials said.
Indoor Mask Mandate: Beginning Wednesday, San Diego County residents will have to mask up again when they enter indoor public spaces, regardless of their vaccination status.
The state issued the mandate, citing a rise in infection rates since Thanksgiving. It will remain in place until Jan. 15.
The state will also toughen the restriction for unvaccinated people who attend indoor "mega-events" of 1,000 people or more, requiring them to receive a negative COVID test within one day of the event if it's a rapid antigen test or within two days for a PCR test. The current rules require a test within 72 hours of the event.
State officials will also recommend, but not require, that people who travel to California or return to the state after traveling be tested for COVID within three to five days.
Among the indoor public spaces affected by the mask mandate will be retail stores, restaurants, theaters, family entertainment centers and government offices that serve the public.
Dec. 14:
Vaccine Anniversary: On the one-year anniversary of San Diego County receiving its first batch of COVID-19 vaccines, the county Health and Human Services Agency Tuesday reported 610 new viral infections and four deaths.
Tuesday marks one year since the county received its first shipments of COVID-19 vaccinations and the first doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine were administered. Since Dec. 14, 2020, more than 5.86 million doses of the three vaccines now available have been administered throughout the region.
Initially, county vaccination sites and medical providers began vaccinating the more than 620,000 health care professionals who became eligible first.
As of Monday, close to 2.72 million San Diego County residents have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, more than 86% of all eligible residents. More than 2.41 million San Diegans, or close to 77% of eligible residents, are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. In addition, more than 528,000 booster shots have been administered in the region.
"San Diego has some of the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the nation and our impressive numbers are a testament to the efforts of our community partners, as well as our residents' commitment to put this pandemic behind us," said Dr. Wilma J. Wooten, county public health officer. "COVID vaccines are safe and effective at preventing severe illness and deaths and I urge anyone who has not gotten vaccinated, or is overdue for their booster, to get vaccinated now."
The new data increases the county's cumulative totals to 395,071 cases and 4,393 deaths since the pandemic began.
The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals increased by 24 people to 354, according to Tuesday's data. Of those patients, 95 were in intensive care as of Monday, four more than Monday.
A total of 15,500 new tests were reported to the county on Tuesday. A total of 3.9% of all tests returned positive over the past week.
Dec. 12
The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals decreased by eight people to 325, according to the latest state figures released Sunday.
A total of 528,256 San Diego County residents have received COVID-19
booster shots and all county vaccination sites have Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson
& Johnson vaccinations available.
San Diego County's case rate per 100,000 residents is 14.2 overall, 8.3 for fully vaccinated people and 24.8 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans. A total of 26,230 new tests were reported to the county on Thursday. A total of 4.1% of all tests returned positive over the past week.
Dec 10
Omicron Variant: Local health officials announced that a man in his 30s was believed to have contracted the Omicron COVID-19 variant locally. The patient tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency announced, making it the second documented case of the variant in the county.
Dec. 9
Omicron Variant: San Diego County health officials announced Thursday the first case of the omicron variant of COVID-19 has been detected among a San Diegan who was fully vaccinated and boosted against the disease.
The patient, who was not identified, had recently traveled abroad before testing positive for COVID-19 on Dec. 8, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency. (HHSA). After conducting a whole genome sequence, the Omicron variant was confirmed Thursday morning.
The patient is not hospitalized and is under isolation, HHSA said. County contact tracers are working to identify others the patient may have come in contact with.
Dec. 8
Vaccines: A total of 528,256 San Diego County residents have received their COVID-19 booster shots and all county vaccination sites have Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccinations available, county public health officials recently announced.
People who were vaccinated with two doses of Pfizer or Moderna COVID- 19 vaccine are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after their initial series. San Diegans who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are eligible for the booster two months after the one dose.
"The COVID-19 vaccine is available to everyone age 5 and older. Also, people who qualify should get a vaccination booster now," said Dr. Wilma J. Wooten, county public health officer. "The booster shot will help you from getting sick and making others ill, especially during the holidays when people tend to gather indoors."
The county does recommend making an appointment before visiting a vaccination site to avoid having to wait. Walk-ins are being accommodated daily until capacity is reached.
The number of county residents who have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine is now more than 2.66 million, or 84.7% of residents age 5 and older.
More than 2.36 million people, or 75.1% of residents 5 and older, are fully vaccinated. Roughly 460,110 San Diego County residents 18 years of age or older have received a booster dose.
Cases and Deaths: The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency reported 562 new COVID-19 infections and 12 additional deaths on Wednesday.
Wednesday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 390,947 cases and 4,369 deaths since the pandemic began.
The 23 deaths reported since last Wednesday's report consist of 12 women and 11 men who died between Aug. 12 and Dec. 5. Seven were age 80 or older, seven were in their 70s, three were in their 60s, three were in their 50s and three were in their 30s. Eight of the people who died were fully vaccinated, 15 were not fully vaccinated, and 21 had underlying medical conditions.
The number of new infections reported in the past week -- 5,418 -- far exceeds the previous week's 2,955.
The number of COVID patients hospitalized in San Diego County increased by 17 to 320 on Wednesday, according to the latest state figures.
Of those patients, 85 were in intensive care, an increase of three from Tuesday.
During the 30-day period between Oct. 26 to Nov. 24, there were 398 COVID-19 hospitalizations and of those, 290 people were not fully vaccinated and 108 were fully vaccinated.
San Diego County's case rate per 100,000 residents is 14.2 overall, 8.3 for fully vaccinated people and 24.8 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
A total of 18,673 new tests were reported to the county on Wednesday. A total of 3.5% of all tests returned positive over the past two weeks.
The number of county residents who have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine is now more than 2.69 million -- or 85.5% of residents age 5 and older.
More than 2.39 million people, or 75.9% of residents 5 and older, are fully vaccinated.
Dec. 7
San Diego County public health officials reported 712 new COVID-19 infections and five additional deaths associated with the virus Tuesday.
Tuesday's data increased the county's cumulative totals to 390,381 cases and 4,357 deaths since the pandemic began.
The number of COVID patients hospitalized in San Diego County increased from 302 to 303 on Tuesday, according to the latest state figures.
Of those patients, 82 were in intensive care, a decrease of one from Monday.
A total of 16,409 new tests were reported to the county on Tuesday, with 4.2% returning positive over the past seven days.
Dec. 2
Cases and Deaths: San Diego County reported 622 new coronavirus cases and 6 additional COVID-19-related deaths
The number of COVID patients hospitalized in San Diego County increased from 292 on Wednesday to 298, with 84 of those patients in intensive care.
Thursday's data increases the county's cumulative totals to 386,050
infections and 4,350 deaths since the pandemic began,
Dec. 1
Omicron Variant: The first case of the omicron COVID-19 variant was reported in California. The patient was fully vaccinated, has mild symptoms and is improving.
Cases and Deaths: County health officials reported 622 COVID-19 cases. The region’s total is now 385,396. Six deaths were also reported, bringing the total to 4,346.
Coronavirus in San Diego County: November 2021 Updates
Nov. 29
Omicron Variant: The Omicron variant has now been detected in Canada after first being identified in South Africa and then in Europe.
Canadian health officials said Sunday that two cases of the variant were detected in Ontario.
"California is closely monitoring the new Omicron variant, which has not yet arrived in California or the U.S.," state Public Health Director Tomas Aragon said Sunday.
"Vaccines continue to be our best way through the pandemic by safely protecting us against severe illness from COVID-19 and its variants. We are doubling down on our vaccination and booster efforts to ensure that all Californians have access to safe, effective and free vaccines that can prevent serious illness and death."
Cases: San Diego County public health officials Monday reported 401 new COVID-19 infections and 10 deaths, as the state prepares for the Omicron variant.
Monday's data increases the cumulative totals to 384,193 infections and 4,335 deaths. There were 173 cases reported on Sunday, 663 on Saturday, just 15 on Friday owing to the Thanksgiving holiday the day before and 514 new infections reported to the county on Thursday.
The county Health and Human Services Agency did not report data over the weekend due to the holiday.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID patients hospitalized in San Diego County increased slightly, rising from 270 to 272, according to the latest state figures.
Of those patients, 83 were in intensive care, unchanged from Sunday.
Vaccinations: The number of residents who have received at least one shot of a COVID- 19 vaccine is now nearly 2.64 million -- or 84% of residents age 5 and older, according to the county.
More than 2.35 million people, or 74.7% of residents 5 and older, are fully vaccinated. Roughly 414,814 San Diego County residents 18 years of age or older have received a booster dose.
Nov. 23
Cases and Deaths: County health officials reported 514 COVID-19 cases. The region’s total is now 382,059. Two deaths were also reported, bringing the total to 4,319.
Nov. 19
Cases and Deaths: County health officials reported 539 COVID-19 cases on Nov. 18, 2021. The region’s total is now 380,172. Six deaths were also reported, bringing the total to 4,317.
Nov. 17
Cases, Hospitalizations: County health officials reported 342 COVID-19 cases on Nov. 16, 2021. The region’s total is now 379,251.
A total of 3,117 cases were reported in the past week (Nov. 10 through Nov. 16) compared to 3,431 cases identified the previous week (Nov. 3 through Nov. 9).
During the 30-day period between Oct. 5 to Nov. 3, there were 339 COVID-19 hospitalizations; 304 people were not fully vaccinated and 35 were fully vaccinated.
Deaths: Twenty-nine new deaths were reported since the last report on Nov. 10, 2021. The region’s total is 4,301.
Twenty-one men and eight women died between July 14 and Nov. 12, 2021.
Ten were 80 years of age or older, five were in their 70s, seven were in their 60s, one was in their 50s, three were in their 40s, two were in their 30s and one was in their 20s.
Eight of the people who died were fully vaccinated and 21 were not fully vaccinated. Twenty-six had underlying medical conditions, one did not and two had medical history pending
Nov. 16
San Diego County public health officials reported 433 new COVID-19 cases and four deaths in its latest data.
The county Health and Human Services Agency reported 445 infections Saturday and 317 Sunday. The county no longer updates coronavirus numbers on weekends.
Monday's data increased the cumulative statistics to 378,327 infections and 4,284 deaths.
The number of coronavirus patients in San Diego County hospitals has risen by five to 265, and the number of those patients in intensive care decreased by three to 80, according to state data.
The number of county residents who have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine is now nearly 2.57 million -- or 81.7% of residents 5 and older. More than 2.32 million, or 73.8% are fully vaccinated.
A total of 11,502 new tests were reported to the county on Monday, and the percentage of new positive cases over the past week was 3.2%, according to the county.
Nov. 15
Cases: San Diego County is reporting 378,327 total COVID-19 cases and 4,284 deaths since Feb. 14, 2020
Case Rate: The county reported an average of 16,219 daily COVID-19 tests over the last week, with 3.2% coming back positive. The county just surpassed 7.5 million tests administered.
Nov. 10
Cases: County officials reported 447 COVID-19 cases on Nov. 9 bringing the region's total to 376,114. In the past week (Nov. 3 through Nov. 9), 3,431 cases were reported compared to 3,359 cases identified the previous week (Oct. 27 through Nov. 2).
Deaths: A total of 31 new deaths were reported on Nov. 9 since the last report on Nov. 3, 2021. The region’s total is now at 4,272. Twenty men and 11 women between Aug. 23 and Nov. 4, 2021. Eight were 80 years of age or older, five were in their 70s, eight were in their 60s, three were in their 50s, three were in their 40s, three were in their 30s and one was in their 20s.
Nine of the people who died were fully vaccinated and 22 were not fully vaccinated.
Twenty-nine had underlying medical conditions, one did not and one had medical history pending.
Vaccination Percentages: The county has added children ages 5 to 11 to the number of San Diegans who are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
That new total of eligible residents for the COVID-19 vaccine is 3,147,936.
As a result, the percentages of San Diegans who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and of those who are fully vaccinated dropped by about nine percentage points each compared to last week.
Vaccine Rate: Through Nov. 9, a total of 279,293 San Diegans had received a COVID-19 booster and 7,320 children ages 5 through 11 had received their first shot of the Pfizer vaccine, the only one approved for this age group. Over 2.57 million or 81.7% of San Diegans 5 and older are partially vaccinated and over 2.32 million or 73.8% are fully vaccinated.
Nov. 8
Border Reopening: The U.S. reopened its land border crossings to non-essential travel on Monday, ending a 19-month freeze due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the country moves to require all international visitors to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County reported 412 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing the county's total to 375,243. Nine new deaths were also reported, bringing the region's death toll 4,259.
Case Rate: A total of 10,943 new tests were reported to the county on Nov. 7, and
the percentage of new positive cases over the past week (based on data through Nov. 7, 2021) was 3.1%, according to the county health department.
Nov. 7
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County reported 563 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing the county's new total number to 374,851. No new deaths were reported, the region's death toll remains at 4,250.
Case Rate: A total of 22,415 new tests were reported to the county on Nov. 5, and
the percentage of new positive cases over the past week (based on data through Nov. 6, 2021) was 3.1%, according to the county health department.
The number of county residents who have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine is now nearly 2.55 million -- or 90.9% of residents 12 and older. More than 2.31 million, or 82.4% of that cohort, are fully vaccinated.
Nov. 3
Children's Vaccinations Start: Several children between the ages of 5 and 11 received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at Rady Children’s Hospital on Wednesday after federal authorities approved pediatric doses of the shots for younger kids.
Staff at Rady Children’s Hospital said the medical facility has so far received 1,000 pediatric doses of the vaccine and began to give children their shots at 7 a.m. Wednesday. Like the adult doses, the efficacy rate is near 90% and they're administered in two doses three weeks apart.
Cases, Hospitalizations: County officials reported a total of 499 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday bringing the region's total to 372,709.
In the past 30 days (Oct. 4. to Nov. 2), there were 274 COVID-19 hospitalizations; 250 people were not fully vaccinated and 24 were fully vaccinated.
San Diego County’s case rate per 100,000 residents is 12.9 overall, 7.4 for fully vaccinated people and 21.9 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
Deaths: Thirty-four new deaths were reported since the last report on Oct. 27, 2021. The region’s total is 4,241. Twenty-three men and 11 women between Sept. 18 and Oct. 30, 2021.Eleven were 80 years of age or older, seven were in their 70s, seven were in their 60s, seven were in their 50s, one was in their 40s and one was in their 30s.
Seven of the people who died were fully vaccinated and 27 were not fully vaccinated. 31 had underlying medical conditions, one did not and two had medical history pending.
Nov. 2
Cases: San Diego County reported 407 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing the county's new total number to 372,198.
Deaths: No new deaths were reported. The county's death toll is at 4,232.
Oct. 31
Cases: San Diego County reported 449 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing the county's new total number to 371,361.
Deaths: Thankfully, no new deaths were reported this day. The county's death toll remained at 4,218.
Oct. 29
FDA Approves Vaccines for Kids: The FDA cleared kid-size vaccine doses — just a third of the amount given to teens and adults — for emergency use, and up to 28 million more American children could be eligible for vaccinations as early as next week.
Cases and Deaths: A total of 687 COVID-19 cases were reported on Oct. 29 bringing the region's total to 370,488. Five new deaths were reported, bringing that total to 4,218.
Oct. 27:
Newsom Booster Shot: Gov. Gavin Newsom visited a Bay Area health clinic Wednesday morning to receive his booster shot and provided an update on statewide COVID-19 vaccinations as well as booster shots for those eligible.
Gov. Newsom is advising residents not to wait until the holiday season is over to receive their booster shot.
"We all remember what occurred last winter," he said in reference to the 2020 holiday spike in COVID-19 cases that got California to 6,000 cases. By late December last year, positive cases tripled reaching 54,000.
Cases, Case Rate: A total of 549 COVID-19 cases were reported on Oct. 26 bringing the region's total to 369,361.
In the past 30 days (Sept. 27 to Oct. 26), there were 288 COVID-19 hospitalizations; 273 people were not fully vaccinated and 15 were fully vaccinated.
San Diego County’s case rate per 100,000 residents is 13.6 overall, 7.5 for fully vaccinated people and 23.1 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
Deaths: Twenty-nine new deaths were reported since the last report on Oct. 20, 2021. The region’s total is 4,207. Twenty-one men and eight women between Feb. 10, 2021 and Oct. 26, 2021.
Two were 80 years of age or older, six were in their 70s, 12 were in their 60s, four were in their 50s and five were in their 40s. One of the people who died was fully vaccinated and 28 were not fully vaccinated.
Twenty-three had underlying medical conditions, three did not and three had medical history pending.
Oct. 26:
Boosters: COVID-19 vaccination boosters are now recommended and available for all who qualify in San Diego County, officials said.
The county's announcement follows the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's approval last week of booster shots for all three COVID-19 vaccines currently available. A time frame for when people should get the shot depends on which vaccine they received, according to the county.
"People should go with their past vaccine, when possible," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, county public health officer. "They all continue to be very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death, even against the Delta variant which is widely circulating."
According to the county, the CDC said the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after receiving two doses of Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine: those aged 65 and older, and people 18 or older who live in long-term care settings, have underlying medical conditions or work or live in high-risk settings.
According to the county, vaccine supplies are plentiful, both for people seeking initial doses, or boosters for those who meet the criteria.
Residents can get a booster shot through their medical provider, a retail pharmacy or a county-operated site. Additional booster eligibility details can be found at coronavirus-sd.com.
Oct. 25
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 420 new cases of COVID-19 and 13 virus-related deaths. The data brought the county's totals to 368,267 cases and 4,196 fatalities since the pandemic began.
Case Rate: A total of 20,973 tests were reported to the county over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 24) and the percentage of new positive cases was 2.7%.
Oct. 20
FDA OKs Mixing & Matching: In a big step toward expanding the U.S. booster campaign, regulators signed off on extending the COVID-19 booster to those who got the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson shot initially, and allowing the mixing and matching of booster doses.
the FDA authorized a third Moderna shot for seniors and others at high risk from COVID-19 because of their health problems, jobs or living conditions — six months after their last shot. One big change: Moderna’s booster will be half the dose that’s used for the first two shots, based on company data showing that was plenty to rev up immunity again.
For J&J’s single-shot vaccine, the FDA said all U.S. recipients, no matter their age, could get a second dose at least two months following their initial vaccination.
As for mixing and matching, the FDA said it's OK to use any brand for the booster regardless of which vaccination people got first.
A CDC advisory panel will next discuss finalizing recommendations.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 441 new cases of COVID-19 and eight virus-related deaths. The data brought the county's cumulative totals to 365,670 cases and 4,178 fatalities since the pandemic began.
A total of 16,255 tests were reported to the county and the percentage of new positive cases over the past week was 2.8%.
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID patients in county hospitals was 276, an increase of 17 from Tuesday, with 81 of them in intensive care -- one more than Tuesday -- according to the latest state figures.
Oct. 18
Cases & Deaths: As of Oct. 18, the county reported 275 new cases of COVID-19. The county's coronavirus total coronavirus cases reported grew to 364,912 cases and 4,169 deaths since the pandemic began.
The number of COVID patients in county hospitals on Monday was 266, an
increase of six from Sunday, with 81 of them in intensive care -- one more from
Sunday -- according to the latest state figures.
Case Rate: A total of 11,469 tests were reported to the county over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 17) and the percentage of new positive cases was 2.7%.
Vaccinations: The latest statistics follow the San Diego County Health and Human
Services Agency recently reported that more than 2.2 million San Diegans -- or
about 80% of those eligible -- are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, making
San Diego among the most-vaccinated counties in the state and the nation.
More than 2.5 million people, or 89.2% of San Diego County residents
12 and older, are partially vaccinated.
Oct. 15
J&J Boosters: An FDA panel endorsed Johnson & Johnson boosters for adults at least two months after their first dose.
Cases & Deaths: The county reported 481 new cases of COVID-19 and eight new virus-related deaths Wednesday, bringing the county's cumulative totals to 363,644 cases and 4,149 deaths since the pandemic began.
Oct. 14
Vaccinations: San Diego County says 80% of eligible residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 -- a major milestone in the fight against the disease.
The percentage accounts for about 2,242,203 of the 2,802,581 San Diegans eligible to receive the vaccine -- anyone 12 and older, the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency reported in its latest data.
The agency said this places San Diego among the most vaccinated counties in the state and the nation -- where about 66% of those 12 and older have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Cases & Deaths: The county reported 333 new cases of COVID-19 and four new virus-related deaths Wednesday, bringing the county's cumulative totals to 362,618 cases and 4,141 deaths since the pandemic began.
A total of 37 new deaths were reported since the last report on Oct. 6, with 27 men and 10 women dying between Aug. 22 and Oct. 10. Seven were 80 years of age or older, nine were in their 70s, eight were in their 60s, six were in their 50s, five were in their 40s and two were in their 30s. Six of the people who died were fully vaccinated and 31 were not fully vaccinated. Thirty- five had underlying medical conditions, one did not, and one has medical history pending.
Case Rate: San Diego County's case rate per 100,000 residents is 15.4 overall, 8.3 for fully vaccinated people and 25.8 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
Oct. 13
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 12, San Diego County public health officials reported 333 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing our tally to 362,618 since the start of the pandemic. There were four new coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the county's total to 4,141.
Case Rate: The county reported 15,149 coronavirus tests over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 12), and the positivity rate was 2.9%.
Land Borders Reopening: The Biden administration says the United States will reopen land borders to nonessential travel next month. Here's what you should know.
Oct. 12
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 11, San Diego County public health officials reported 580 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing our tally to 362,293 since the start of the pandemic. There were 11 new coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the county's total to 4,137.
Case Rate: The county reported 15,056 coronavirus tests over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 11), and the positivity rate was 2.8%.
Oct. 11
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 10, San Diego County public health officials reported 638 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing our tally to 361,719 since the start of the pandemic. There were 11 new coronavirus-related deaths, bringing the county's total to 4,124.
Case Rate: The county reported 15,056 coronavirus tests over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 11), and the positivity rate was 2.8%.
Oct. 10
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 9, San Diego County public health officials reported 528 new COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing our tally to 361,039 since the start of the pandemic. There were no new coronavirus-related deaths, so that toll is still 4,113.
Case Rate: The county reported 18,921 coronavirus tests over the past seven days (based on data through Oct. 9), and the positivity rate was 3%.
Oct. 9
Hospitalizations: The number of COVID patients in county hospitals increased from 284 on Friday to 288 Saturday, with 85 of those patients in intensive care, up from 83 the day before, according to state figures.
Oct. 8
An unvaccinated woman is the first pregnant San Diego woman to die from COVID-19, county health officials said. The woman died earlier this week after being hospitalized, as did her unborn child, the County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) said.
Details regarding her age, name, or other details about her death and pregnancy are not being reported to protect her and her family's privacy.
Oct. 7
Pfizer Asks FDA to Authorize Its COVID Vaccine for Kids Ages 5 to 11: Pfizer and its German partner BioNtech said they had made a formal request to the Food and Drug Administration to extend emergency use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11. The two-dose vaccine is already authorized in teens aged 12 to 15 and fully approved for ages 16 and up. If U.S. regulators agree, shots for the 5 to 11 set could begin within a matter of weeks.
Oct. 6
Vaccines in San Diego: San Diego County public health officials released weekly data on Oct. 6 charting the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations in the region. The data showed 79.4% of San Diego residents (or 2,226,510 locals) who are eligible for the coronavirus vaccine are now fully vaccinated with both doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or the one-dose J&J vaccine. The county reported that 2,485,932 San Diego residents (or 88.7%) who are eligible for the vaccine have now gotten at least one dose of it.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County reported 387 COVID-19 cases bringing the region's total to 359,537. In the past 30 days (Sept. 6 to Oct. 5), there were 293 COVID-19 hospitalizations; 285 people were not fully vaccinated and 8 were fully vaccinated.
Thirty-eight new deaths were reported since the last report on Sept. 29. The region’s total is 4,104. Twelve women and 26 men died between Aug. 9 and Oct. 3, 2021. Six were 80 years of age or older, nine were in their 70s, nine were in their 60s, seven were in their 50s and seven were in their 40s.
Eight of the people who died were fully vaccinated and 30 were not fully vaccinated. Thirty-three had underlying medical conditions and five had medical history pending.
Case Rate: San Diego County’s case rate per 100,000 residents is 18.9 overall, 8.8 for fully vaccinated people and 33.4 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans. 22,455 tests were reported to the County on Oct. 5, and the percentage of new positive cases was 1.7%. The 14-day rolling percentage of positive cases among tests is 2.5%.
Oct. 5
Another Round of Golden State Stimulus Payments: More eligible Californians were set to receive a Golden State Stimulus payment on Oct. 5. Here's who qualifies, and everything you need to know about the payment.
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 3, San Diego public health officials reported another 390 COVID-19 cases, bringing our region's tally to 358,498. There were another 9 coronavirus-related deaths reported in San Diego County, so that toll is now at 4,090.
Case Rate: The county reported 24,966 coronavirus tests over the past seven days, for a positivity rate of 3.6%.
San Diego Creates $5M Legal Aid Fund For Renters Facing Eviction Amid Pandemic: The San Diego City Council approved Mayor Todd Gloria's proposal to establish a $5 million legal defense fund to help struggling tenants potentially facing eviction due to non-payment of rent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
California COVID-19 Updates: The California Department of Public Health released its most recent stats on COVID-19 across the state on Oct. 5. Here’s how the numbers broke down:
- Cases: To date, California has 4,519,467 confirmed COVID-19 cases since the pandemic reached the region in 2020 (these numbers may not represent true day-over-day change as reporting of test results can be delayed). On Oct. 4, the state reported 3,752 newly confirmed cases
- Average Case Rate Among Unvaccinated Californians: For the week of Sept. 19 through Sept. 25, the average number of COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated Californians age 16+ was 57.41 cases per 100,000 people, per day
- Average Case Rate Among Vaccinated Californians: For the same time period, the average number of COVID-19 cases for vaccinated Californians age 16+ was only 7.12 cases per 100,000 people, per day.
- The CDPH said there had been 94,221,400 coronavirus tests conducted in California, including 240,120 in the last 24-hour period. The state’s 7-day positivity rate was at 2.5%.
- There have been 69,027 COVID-related deaths across California since the start of the pandemic.
- As of Oct. 5, the CDC reported 84.5% of eligible Californians had received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. You can see the state’s COVID-19 vaccine data here.
“The great majority of new cases are among unvaccinated individuals,” the CDPH said in its weekly press release on Oct. 5. “The rate among the unvaccinated is 8 times the rate among the vaccinated.”
You can see the CDPH’s data on COVID-19 cases among the vaccinated and unvaccinated in California here.
Oct. 4
Cases & Deaths: Based on data through Oct. 2, San Diego County public health officials reported an additional 343 COVID-19 cases in the region, bringing the tally to 358,126 since the pandemic began in mid-February 2020. The coronavirus-related death toll in San Diego County now stands at 4,081; no additional deaths were reported in the county's Oct. 2 data set.
Case Rate: The county reported an average of 25,134 coronavirus tests over the past seven days, for a positivity rate of 3.5%.
Oct. 1
Cruise Ships (With Passengers) Return to Port of San Diego: After a lengthy pandemic-related pause, two cruise ships -- the Disney Wonder and Grand Princess -- on Oct. 1 became the first cruise ships, passengers and all, to sail in and out of the Port of San Diego since the pandemic put a halt to the industry back in spring 2020. With the return of cruise ships to our port, many hope a boost for local tourism and the economy will follow.
California to Require All Schoolchildren to Get Vaccinated Against COVID-19: California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the nation’s first coronavirus vaccination mandate for schoolchildren, a plan that will have all elementary through high school students get the shots once the vaccine gains final approval from the U.S. government for different age groups.
Cases & Deaths: NBC 7 will update you on the county's latest stats concerning local COVID-19 cases here as soon as that information is available.
Coronavirus in San Diego County: September 2021 Updates
From booster shots and vaccine mandates to so much more, here's a full look back at what happened in San Diego County during the pandemic in September 2021.
Here's a mini recap of the last few days of September, too:
Sept. 30
California's Eviction Moratorium Ends: California’s eviction moratorium ended on Sept. 30, 2021, which is making some renters nervous about the future. Still, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said it's not the end of aid for local tenants struggling from the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 572 additional cases of COVID-19 in our region (with data through Sept. 29), bringing the tally to 356,427 cases since the pandemic reached San Diego County in mid-February 2020. The county also reported 12 additional coronavirus-related deaths, bringing that toll to 4,078.
Case Rate: The county reported 23,770 coronavirus tests over the past seven days, for a positivity rate of 3.7%.
Sept. 29
Vaccinations in San Diego County: San Diego County public health officials released weekly data on Sept. 29 charting the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations in our region. Here are the latest stats:
- 2,207,194 San Diego residents who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine -- or 78.8% of the eligible population -- are now fully vaccinated against the coronavirus (either with two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or with the one-dose J&J vaccine).
- 2,470,817 San Diego residents eligible for the coronavirus vaccine -- or 88.2% -- are now partially vaccinated, with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine
- The county said a total of 4,766,911 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in San Diego County since the vaccine became available in our region in mid-December 2020.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported 515 new COVID-19 cases (based on data through Sept. 28), bringing the region's tally to 355,872. Another 12 COVID-related deaths were reported by the county, and that toll now stands at 4,066.
Case Rate: County public health officials reported 21,559 coronavirus tests over the past 7-day period, for a positivity rate of 3.2%. San Diego County’s case rate per 100,000 residents is 21.9 overall, 10.3 for fully vaccinated people and 37.9 for not fully vaccinated San Diegans.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations in San Diego County: Public health officials said that over the past 30 days – from Aug. 30 through Sept. 28 – there had been 378 coronavirus hospitalizations. Of those who were hospitalized, 370 people were not fully vaccinated and 8 were fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Community Outbreaks: From Sept. 22 through Sept. 28, the county said 31 community outbreaks of COVID-19 were confirmed:
- 18 in TK-12 grade school settings
- 4 in business settings
- 3 in daycare/preschool/childcare settings
- 3 in government settings
- 1 in an after-school program setting
- 1 in a restaurant setting
- 1 in an emergency services setting
Sept. 28
SDUSD Approves COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate: The San Diego Unified School District approved a mandate requiring all eligible staff, employees, contractors, partners and students to be fully vaccinated by Dec. 20, 2021, with a phased approach for students of different age groups to follow the suggested mandate.
The decision was met with both support from some parents and opposition from others. Read all about the school district's vaccine mandate plan here.
According to San Diego County’s COVID-19 Vaccinations Report (with data through Sept. 21), 70.9% of the eligible 12 to 17-year-old population in San Diego County is partially vaccinated against the coronavirus.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported an additional 611 COVID-19 cases, bringing the region's tally to 355,346 cases since the pandemic began (data through Sept. 27). No new additional coronavirus-related deaths were reported in San Diego County, bringing that toll to 4,054.
Case Rate: A total of 15,005 new tests were logged by the county leading up to Sept. 27, and the positivity rate over that span was 3.5%.
California COVID-19 Updates: As of Sept. 28, 2021, the California Department of Public Health said these were the most recent stats on the COVID-19 situation statewide:
- As of Sept. 28, the state had confirmed 4,476,388 cases of COVID-19 (reporting of test results may be delayed, so state health officials said this may not represent true day-over-day change).
- State public health officials said there were 4,753 newly reported coronavirus cases on Sept. 27.
- Case Rate Among Vaccinated Californians: 7.95 cases per 100,000 Californians, per day (data for week from Sept. 5 through Sept. 11, 2021)
- Case Rate Among Unvaccinated Californians (age 16 and older): 62.83 cases per 100,000 Californians, per day (data for week from Sept. 5 through Sept. 11, 2021)
- COVID-Related Deaths in California: There had been 68,387 COVID-related deaths in California since the start of the pandemic
- COVID Vaccines in California: As of Sept. 27, the CDC reported that 83.8% of eligible Californians had gotten at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine (numbers do not represent true day-to-day change as reporting may be delayed)
- COVID-19 Testing in California: As of Sept. 28, there had been 91,949,140 coronavirus tests conducted in the state since the start of the pandemic. The CDPH said the current 7-day positivity rate stood at 2.5%
“The great majority of new cases are among unvaccinated individuals,” the CDPH said in its Sept. 28 update. “The rate among the unvaccinated is 8 times the rate among the vaccinated.”
Sept. 27
COVID-19 Booster Shots: San Diego County public health officials provided an update on COVID-19 boosters, giving an outline of who is eligible.
The county said they would follow the guidance from the CDC and the California Department of Public Health in distributing the Pfizer COVID-19 booster to older adults, immunocompromised individuals and those in certain risk groups.
See a full list of who is eligible here or at the link below.
The state already revealed its plan to provide the booster once it is given final authorization. The plan relies largely on pharmacies and primary care providers as well as mass vaccination sites in some larger counties.
Cases & Deaths: San Diego County public health officials reported another 356 COVID-19 cases, bringing the region's tally to 354,732 cases since the pandemic began (data through Sept. 26). Three additional coronavirus-related deaths were reported in San Diego County, bringing that toll to 4,054.
Case Rate: The county reported an average of 21,634 COVID-19 tests over seven days leading up to Sept. 26; the positivity rate over that span was 3.5%.
The Coronavirus Pandemic in San Diego County, Month by Month
For a look back at what happened in September 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened in August 2021 and July 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened day by day in June 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened day by day in May 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened day by day in April 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened day by day in March 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened day by day in February 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a full look back at what happened day by day in January 2021 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at what happened in San Diego County in December 2020, click here.
For a look back at what happened in San Diego County in November 2020, click here.
For a look back at what happened in San Diego County in October 2020, click here.
For a look back at what happened in San Diego County in September 2020, click here.
For day-by-day look back at everything that happened in August 2020 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
For a look back at July 2020 in San Diego County during the pandemic, click here.
To read about what happened in June 2020 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
To read what happened in May 2020, a month that county leaders called a month of "adaptation" for San Diego County in the fight against the novel coronavirus, click here.
To read what happened in April 2020, a month that county leaders called "critical" for flattening the curve, click here.
To look back at what happened in March 2020 in San Diego County during the coronavirus pandemic, click here.
Mid-March 2020: The Coronavirus Pandemic Reaches San Diego County
A lot happened in March 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic reached San Diego County and COVID-19 cases surged.
This included quarantine operations at a 151-room Ramada hotel in Kearny Mesa that was chosen to house quarantined patients held at MCAS Miramar (March 18).
More than 480 passengers from a coronavirus-ridden cruise ship that docked at the Port of Oakland were flown to MCAS Miramar March 10 to March 12 to complete a mandatory 14-day federal quarantine. On March 27, Dr. Eric McDonald, Medical Director with the County Epidemiology Immunization Branch said all but three of the passengers had returned home after 14-days of quarantine, including those who had been at the Ramada Hotel.
Training Support Command at Naval Base San Diego was temporarily closed on March 14 due to three Sailors testing positive for COVID-19.
Coronavirus Pandemic
California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued the stay-at-home order and, soon, the springtime shutdown across San Diego County began.
Schools Shut Down
On March 13, San Diego Unified School District Superintendent Cindy Marten shut down the second-largest school district in California. All other school districts in San Diego County followed suit. San Diego Bishop Robert McElroy closed all schools within the San Diego Catholic Diocese, too.
We later learned schools across the state would be closed for the remainder of the academic year.
Local colleges and universities also canceled classes and events and moved their operations online. This included: UC San Diego; San Diego State University; California State University San Marcos; Point Loma Nazarene University; University of San Diego; San Diego Community College District; Southwestern College; Palomar College; Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.
Landmarks Shutter, Events Canceled
San Diego’s biggest tourist attractions, landmarks and events closed or were canceled. Local casinos followed, as well as gyms and fitness centers.
Church Services Canceled
As gatherings were banned, all daily and Sunday masses in the San Diego Catholic Diocese were canceled. Rock Church San Diego services were also canceled and moved to streaming online.
Beaches & Parks Closed
On March 23, San Diego’s beaches, parks, boardwalks, and other open spaces across the county were ordered to close to restrict gatherings over 10 people prohibited by state and local laws.
Restaurant Dinings Rooms & Bars Close
Bars and restaurant dining rooms were ordered to close in March, too. Shopping malls closed. Some retailers – like clothing stores Urban Outfitters and Brandy Melville USA – temporarily closed their stores, and more would follow.
Sports, On Hold
Sports agencies – both college-level and professional – suspended their games and seasons. MLB’s Opening Day – including the San Diego Padres big Home Opener at Petco Park – were scrapped, but in June, the MLB made plans to return to the field, without fans. The 2020 MLB season will return in late July.
Text "COSD COVID19" to 468311 to receive updates and alerts from the county. Click here to find different ways to help your community during the pandemic.
San Diego County would like to remind everyone if you or someone you care about is experiencing a suicidal or mental health crisis, please call the Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240.
Pitching in During the Pandemic: Stories of San Diegans Doing Good: Read more stories about San Diegans finding creative ways to lend support. Have you heard about a story we should share? Let us know
