With at least 10 confirmed COVID-19 cases in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, local hospitals are gearing up for the possibility of an increase in patients.
Dignity Health Central Coast says it is evaluating space at all three of its local hospitals, adding they have approval to use surge tents should the need arise.
Hospital officials also told the Santa Maria City Council Tuesday night that Marian Regional Medical Center had received approval to utilize an 11-bed unit located at the hospital's previous location.
In Templeton, Twin Cities Community Hospital is screening everyone prior to entering the facility.
When asked Wednesday whether additional positive COVID-19 cases were expected in the coming days, Santa Barbara County Public Health said, "absolutely."
Visitors have also been restricted or limited at local hospitals.