La Voz del Campo - April 2020 - English

FA R M

L A B O R

I N F O R M AT I O N

B U L L E T I N

Voice of the Fields California

April 2020

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Volume 30, Number 4

Fighting the Flu

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T’S FLU SEASON IN THE UNITED STATES and that means millions of people will become sick each year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that the flu is responsible for 9 million to 45 million illnesses annually, however, there are ways to prevent the flu and symptoms to look out for.

The CDC reports that the most effective way to prevent the flu is by getting the flu vaccine, recommended for anyone aged 6 months and older.

The flu vaccine encourages the body to create antibodies that fight the virus, which has been shown to significantly reduce death in children and high-risk individuals, as well as reduce everyone’s chances of getting the flu by almost 50%. High risk people include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, and people aged 65 and older. It’s important to speak with your doctor before getting the flu vaccine if you have allergies to any of the ingredients in the vaccine such as egg or gelatin to determine an alternative. Flu shots are widely available in doctor’s offices, clinics, drug stores, and other convenient locations in every community. Find the location nearest to you by speaking with your doctor, or typing in your zip code at www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/flufinder-widget.html.

Aside from the vaccine, there are other steps that you can take to prevent the flu:

Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Within 6 feet) Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to get under your nails and in between your fingers. You do not have to use antibacterial soap, regular soap works just as well. If you don’t have access to soap, use hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth since this is where germs on your hands will enter your body.

Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that many people touch which could be contaminated with germs like the flu.

CS294906-F If you have a fever

and flu-like symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever has subsided.

For more information about the flu and how to protect you and your family, visit the CDC’s website.

English: www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm Spanish: espanol.cdc.gov/enes/flu/ index.htm

are all around you.

Stay healthy.

Wash your hands. www.cdc.gov/handwashing

Coronavirus

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ORONAVIRUS, also known as COVID-19, originated in China at the beginning of 2020. The virus causes flu-like symptoms combined with respiratory complications such as shortness of breath and trouble breathing.

Many people are actually unaware that they have coronavirus because it can mimic the symptoms of a common cold or flu for healthy individuals, although symptoms are much more severe for seniors and those with preexisting health problems. On January 30, 2020 the World Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency of international concern due to the spread and death rate of the virus, which has reached 200,000 cases and over 6,000 deaths worldwide.

Over 6,000 cases of COVID-19 are now present in the United States with a large number of individuals contracting the virus in California. To address this issue, California Governor, Gavin Newsom, declared a state of emergency in California on March 4, 2020, and more recently, President Donald Trump declared a national emergency in the United States on March 13, 2020.

Perhaps the biggest problem that the U.S. faces is our lack of testing kits available. Medical experts predict that our rates of coronavirus are actually much higher, we just don’t have the ability to test for it. Despite international upheaval and soaring infection rates, the CDC maintains that there is no cause for panic.

You can avoid contracting COVID-19 using some of the same precautions you would to ward off the flu, although it’s important to note that contracting coronavirus is about 10 times more contagious than the flu and added measures

are necessary. In California, at least six counties - including San Francisco, Sacramento, and Los Angeles – have issued “shelter in place” orders that directs residents to stay at home and only travel out of the house for essential trips like grocery shopping and doctor’s appointments. To find out what your city or county is doing to prevent the spread of coronavirus, visit your county’s website and stay up to date on the most recent news coverage. In addition to the CDC’s regular updates, local news stations have also dedicated live online updates on COVID-19 to keep communities in the loop of new and changing circumstances.

In the meantime, health professionals and local politicians are pressuring federal agencies to increase access to testing kits and provide public safety measures that will slow or reduce the spread of the virus. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the CDC are strongly recommending social distancing, staying home, and not attending any gatherings for the time being. The CDC has also released information about how to prevent the contraction of coronavirus and symptoms to look out for. Contrary to popular belief, face masks are actually not the most effective way of preventing the contraction of coronavirus, according to the CDC. Face masks are proven to be effective for those who are infected with the illness by reducing the spread of respiratory droplets that are emitted

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when exhaling, sneezing, or coughing.

The protective wear is also at an extreme shortage for healthcare professionals and should be reserved for sick people and medical workers. The most effective way to prevent the contraction of coronavirus is to stay away from crowds, limit in-person interactions, and wash your hands before touching your face or before eating, and especially after touching objects and surfaces that many people touch, such as the door handle of a public space. At this time, there is no vaccine or cure for COVID-19. Individuals that are most susceptible to the flu are also most susceptible to coronavirus: the elderly, and those with chronic health issues and weakened immune systems. If you or your family are experiencing flu-like symptoms that include a fever and respiratory issues, stay home from work and/or school and seek medical attention immediately.

The CDC and WHO also recommends cancelling unnecessary travel plans, especially those to highly infected countries and continents: Europe, China, Japan, South Korea, and Iran.

Keep track of the regions most affected by the virus by visiting www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

The Governor’s office has developed a California-based website to display updates and information on all things coronavirus-related. The website can be translated into dozens of different languages, including Spanish: covid19. ca.gov. To learn more about the coronavirus, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself, please visit the CDC and CDPH websites for regular updates and additional information.

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OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION

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UE TO INTENSE LABOR CONDITIONS, California farmworkers have higher health risks when it comes to heat-related illnesses, pesticide exposure, respiratory issues, and other problems.

Back-breaking labor, combined with high temperatures and long work hours are especially hard on the body and increase farmworker’s likelihood of medical issues. In order to combat these problems, it is important to not only be aware of preventative measures but also be aware of the laws that exist to protect you in the workplace. Most importantly, it is necessary to receive regular medical care, not just in the event of an emergency.

Heat-Related Illnesses

As the climate continues to get hotter, heat-related illnesses become a harsher reality for many people that work outdoors.

Farmworkers are especially prone to heat-related illnesses because of extreme conditions in the fields which are typically 8-10 degrees hotter than surrounding areas. On top of that, those who work in agriculture must wear protective clothing and additional layers which makes the problem of overheating much worse. The most common heat-related illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but overheating can also worsen existing health problems. Nevertheless, there are ways to prevent heat-related illness, symptoms to look out for, and laws to be aware of that protect you in the workplace.

PREVENTION According to the Department of Labor, the three most important words to remember are: water, rest, shade. By California law, employers are required to provide workers with all three of these things once temperatures reach 80

degrees Fahrenheit.

Drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, coffee, and soft drinks.

Your employer is required to provide you with fresh drinking water throughout the day Take frequent breaks in the shade to cool off.

Your employer is required to provide you with shaded spaces to take a break for at least 5 minutes at a time.

Wear loose fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing made of cotton or another breathable material. Widebrimmed hats are also recommended.

Speak with your doctor if you have a chronic illness that can be worsened by heat-related issues like diabetes.

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION Heat exhaustion, if left untreated, can lead to heat stroke which is a life-threatening medical condition. Symptoms of heat exhaustion are: Headache Heavy sweating Rapid pulse Intense thirst Weakness Anxiety Dizziness or fainting Symptoms of heat stroke are: Dilated pupils Increased body temperature Confusion and/or loss of concentration

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Nausea and vomiting If your employer is not providing you with adequate water, rest, and shade, you have the right to file a complaint with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). Visit the DIR website for more information about how to file a complaint.

English webpage: www.dir.ca.gov/ dosh/complaint.htm Spanish webpage: www.dir.ca.gov/ dosh/Spanish/complaint.htm

Pesticide Exposure

Despite recent efforts to rid the agriculture workforce of pesticide use, the vast majority of crops are still sprayed with billions of pounds of pesticides each year. Farmworkers are the most vulnerable population when it comes to pesticide exposure because they are in constant contact with crops, breathing in fumes and handling produce covered in chemicals. Pesticide exposure causes many health issues, and is especially dangerous for pregnant women and those already suffering from chronic health conditions. In order to protect yourself and your family from the risks of pesticide exposure, it’s important to be aware of prevention methods that you can take to reduce the chances of becoming ill.

There are also symptoms to look out for that may mean your body is suffering from the chemicals used in pesticides.

PREVENTION It’s important to wear protective clothing and apparel that ensures your skin does not come in contact with pesticides such as non-porous gloves, hats that cover your forehead, long-sleeved clothing, pants, socks, and items that cover any exposed skin. To prevent inhaContinued on page 6

Planned Parenthood

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LANNED PARENTHOOD is committed to helping uninsured and undocumented individuals access reproductive and general healthcare services.

The organization believes in health care as a right that everyone should have regardless of your income or life situation. Reproductive health services are offered for men, women, and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and plus community (LGBTQ+), in addition to birth control, HIV services, pregnancy services, sexually transmitted disease (STD) treatment and testing, along with annual exams and other services.

General services are also offered such as vaccines, cancer screenings, physical exams, and health education.

It is important to remember that you will not need to disclose your documentation status to any Planned Parenthood representative. Confidentiality is enforced by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) law which states that the clinic must maintain security standards to protect health care data and patient records, meaning that your records are safe and private. While there is heightened fear of deportation, harassment, and discrimination in day to day life within the undocumented community, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Sensitive Location Policy, and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Sensitive Locations Policy are in place to keep immigration law enforcement away from “sensitive”

locations which include health care facilities.

Lastly, ICE and CBP are constitutionally prevented from performing unreasonable search and seizure operations.

When paying for services, remember that any payments with a debit, credit, check, or third-party insurance requires a photo ID. However, Planned Parenthood takes cash, money orders, or payments made by a friend of family member with a photo ID. Remember, that Planned Parenthood does not discriminate on the basis of immigration status, age, sex, or gender.

These facilities are open to men, women, and the LBTGQ community.

There are many other services that Planned Parenthood offers, and you can look at an in-depth list of services using the link.

English: www.plannedparenthood. org/get-care/our-services Spanish: www.plannedparenthood. org/es/obten-atencion/nuestrosservicios To find a Planned Parenthood near you, search here by typing in your zip code: English: www.plannedparenthood. org/ Spanish: www.plannedparenthood. org/es

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Coronavirus

Continued from page 2

CDC English webpage: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/faq.html CDC Spanish webpage: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/faq-sp.html CDPH English webpage: www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/ CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx CDPH Spanish webpage: www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/ CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx To find out what California workers need to know, visit the Employment Development Department (EDD) and Labor & Workforce Development Agency’s (LWDA) websites.

EDD English webpage: www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/ coronavirus-2019.htm EDD Spanish webpage: www.edd.ca.gov/about_edd/ coronavirus-2019-espanol.htm LWDA English webpage: www.labor.ca.gov/coronavirus2019/ (**View LWDA information in Spanish using the link at the top of the page) For local information, you should also visit your county’s website to learn about new developments in your community. Find your county’s website by going to www.counties. org/county-websites-profile-information.

California Clinics

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HE STATE OF CALIFORNIA has numerous medical programs and clinics that service communities regardless of income or immigration status. Considering the hazardous nature of farm work, it’s important that you visit the doctor regularly for everything from check-ups to chronic health conditions.

Healthy San Francisco

If you are 18 years or older and a San Francisco resident, the Healthy San Francisco program will offer medical services to you regardless of immigration or insurance status.

To determine your eligibility to receive medical services, visit the following webpage: healthysanfrancisco.org/ visitors/are-you-eligible/ For a list of necessary documents needed to enroll, visit Healthy San Francisco’s website: healthysanfrancisco.org/participants/time-to-renew/ necessary-documents-to-enroll/ or to speak with customer service directly, use the following phone number: (415) 615-4555.

ity and how to sign up, visit the Healthy Partners Program website. Information is available in English and Spanish. dhs. saccounty.net/PRI/Pages/Healthy%20 Partners/GI-PRI-Healthy-Partners.aspx If you meet the eligibility criteria, call Member Services: (916) 874-1805.

Path to Health Pilot Project

The County Medical Services Program created the Path to Health Pilot Project for low-income, undocumented adults who are already enrolled in restricted scope/emergency only MediCal coverage and are seeking preventative health services and routine prescription medications. Services are available in 30 counties across California to those age 26 and older.

Healthy Partners Program

The Healthy Partners Program provides primary and preventative healthcare to Sacramento County residents who are 19 years of age or older, and who meet certain income and Medi-Cal coverage requirements, regardless of immigration status.

For more information about eligibil-

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For more information about the Path to Health program, visit their website.

English webpage: mypathtohealth.org Spanish webpage: caminoalasalud.org To determine your eligibility and take steps to enroll, view the following fact sheet in English and Spanish: mypathtohealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CMSP190701-PTHRack-Card-FINAL-1.pdf To speak with a Customer Service Representative directly, call: (877) 283-7284.

Participating Counties Alpine Amador Butte Calaveras Colusa Del Norte El Dorado Glenn Humboldt Imperial Inyo Kings

Lake Lassen Madera Marin Mariposa Mendocino Modoc Mono Napa Nevada Plumas San Benito

Shasta Sierra Siskiyou Solano Sonoma Sutter Tehama Trinity Tuolumne Yolo Yuba

Pesticide

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lation of the chemicals, wear a facemask specifically designed for pesticide use.

SYMPTOMS Often times symptoms of pesticide poisoning go unnoticed because it mimics the symptoms of a common flu.

If you’re experiencing extended symptoms, especially after working with and around pesticides, consult a doctor and make sure that you’re taking the proper prevention measures.

Headaches Vision problems and small pupils Runny nose and drooling Chest pains and breathing problems Stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting Muscle cramps and muscle aches Skin problems like itchiness, rashes, bumps, redness, blisters, burning, sweating profusely Numbness and tingling in fingers Confusion, weakness, restlessness and anxiety, trouble sleeping, and trouble completing everyday tasks that normally don’t cause you any problems.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) for farmworkers who are working near or with pesticides.

Although much greater protections are needed within the WPS, there are existing requirements like safety trainings, notification of pesticide applications, and emergency medical assistance that your employer is required to provide you with. For more information about these standards, visit the EPA’s website: www.epa.gov/pesticide-worker-safety.

The website includes various materials in Spanish as well as English.

If you suspect that your employer is violating WPS standards, report the violation on the EPA’s website.

English Version: echo.epa.gov/ report-environmental-violations Spanish Version: echo.epa.gov/denuncie-violaciones-ambientales Aside from heat-related illnesses and pesticide exposure, there are many other health risks associated with farm labor. Farmworkers tend to have much higher rates of medical issues due to the intense nature of agricultural work. It’s important that you take care of your physical health by visiting the doctor for routine check-ups and general healthcare, not just in the event of an emergency. Regardless of your immigration status, there are health clinics throughout California that provide a variety of medical care and options for you and your family.

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Voice of the Fields California Circulation: 45,000 copies www.LaCooperativa.org Published monthly by: La Cooperativa Campesina de California 1107 9th Street, Suite 420, Sacramento, CA 95814 This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.

Content produced by ALZA Strategies, a full-service strategy firm that offers quality media relations, crisis communications, the growing Latino market.

EDDResources Resources EDD

www.edd.ca.gov

Workforce Services AJCC Locator ............ 1-877-872-5627 CalJOBSSM ...................... 1-800-758-0398 Monitor Advocate, Report work related complaints ................... 1-866-289-8356 e-mail: ............... madvocat@edd.ca.gov Unemployment Insurance English: ........................ 1-800-300-5616 Spanish: ....................... 1-800-326-8937 Disability Insurance English: ....................... 1-800-480-3287 Spanish: ....................... 1-866-658-8846 Paid Family Leave English: ....................... 1-877-238-4373 Spanish: ...................... 1-877-379-3819 Ask EDD Request EDD information online: .....................................askedd.edd.ca.gov