Santa Barbara County officials say 18 residents have tested positive for COVID-19 as of Monday, March 23.
Public Health Officer Dr. Henning Ansorg says the growing number of cases confirms community spread of the novel coronavirus in every region of the county.
At a news conference Monday afternoon, Dr. Ansorg said that all residents should assume they are at risk of contracting it and take action to stop the spread of the virus by social distancing and following state orders to stay home.
Dr. Ansorg added that people experiencing mild symptoms should stay home until they are symptom-free and without fever for 72 hours.
For more information about the county's COVID-19 response and other resources, visit publichealthsbc.org.