Ever since it was announced that we were officially in a pandemic, the world has been eagerly anticipating the COVID-19 vaccine. While Orchard Hospital’s first dose COVID-19 community vaccination clinic appointments have now been filled and will be paused until further notice, the second dose Covid-19 community vaccination clinic administration began February 17^th at the Orchard Hospital Medical Specialty Center in Gridley.

The Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization advise the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the Covid-19 virus, and help people who may have it, but do not know it, from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings can be used as an additional public health measure.

Masks don't make you invincible, and they absolutely can't replace good hygiene, but along with washing your hands and practicing social distancing, they can help.

Whether or not to wear a face mask in the wake of Covid-19 is a hot debate. Do they really work? Are they just for public perception? A mask acts as a barrier to prevent the spread of the virus, but it only works when worn correctly.

A healthcare tradition since 1921, National Hospital Week celebrates hospitals and the men and women who support the health of their communities through dedication and compassionate care. It also recognizes the miracles they help make happen on a day to day basis, both large and small.

Now more than ever, this important week gives us all the opportunity to highlight our hospital, health systems, and health care workers and the innovative ways they are supporting the needs of our community members during this pandemic.

Since mid-March, California and much of the United States has been under a shelter-at-home order in response to COVID-19. With the shutdown of all but essential businesses, the cancellation of events and school, people told to work remotely from home, and practicing social distancing, we’ve all been faced with the reality of finding a new normal overnight with no known end date in sight.

As we listen to news, witness the panic buying, and face the unknown with uncertainty and fear, we're all experiencing stress and anxiety on some level. Being told to stay home in order to save lives is hard, but it's also essential to the health of ourselves and our loved ones.

Orchard Hospital is taking pro-active measures to ensure the health and well-being of our community as we face this global crisis together.

Prevention and staying informed are key to protecting yourself and loved ones from Coronavirus.

Below is a list of resources you can visit to make sure you are receiving the latest news. We’ll also continue to share the latest on our Facebook page.

While the health risk to the general public remains low, there has been a confirmed case of Coronavirus (officially named COVID-19) in California. The person is being treated in Sacramento County.

February is American Heart Month! Did you know that approximately every 38 seconds an American dies from cardiovascular disease? It's a sad statistic that will only get worse if we ignore the problem. Cardiovascular disease is not only the leading cause of death in our nation, but globally as well. A large number of these deaths could be prevented through education and lifestyle change.

Now that the kids are back to school that can mean only one thing...flu season is coming. Yep, that's right, there is a spike in flu in the fall that coincides with back to school, but don't despair, there is still hope!

***As of April 19, 2019, there are 10 confirmed measles cases in Butte County***

Get continued updates here.

The cases are considered part of a cluster outbreak in Butte, Tehama and Shasta Counties. A disease outbreak is the occurrence of cases of a disease in excess of what would normally be expected in a defined community, geographical area or season. Measles is a virus that is highly contagious, and potentially dangerous for those who have not been vaccinated. Here’s what you need to know.

We’d like to do whatever we can to avoid the fever, body aches, stuffy nose and coughing that comes from the seasonal flu. You’ll be happy to know that this year’s flu season is turning out to be milder than last year’s – one of the worst on record.