COVID-19 Response

We encourage the public to stay informed with reliable, timely information on the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) directly from County Health, the State of California and the CD C .

If you (or someone you know) have concerns about being infected, or are wondering about how you should proceed with potential medical attention if you believe that you may be infected, please call the non-emergency Tulare County information line 2-1-1.

For information on City offices, facilities and conducting City business, scroll below to City Services and Operations Update. This page was last updated 12.30.21.

Latest News

Omicron Variant Confirmed and Spreading Rapidly in Tulare County

12.30.21

Tulare County Public Health has confirmed the first cases of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in three samples collected recently from Tulare County residents.

“There are many more samples that have been identified on the preliminary screening test this week as potential Omicron cases,” shared Laura Flores, Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency. “It will take several days to confirm these results, but internal data suggest they are likely also Omicron cases.

This week’s surveillance activities have identified rapid spread of Omicron throughout Tulare County in just the last few days. This rapid spread is consistent with what has been seen in other parts of California and the nation.

“As we suspected, the Omicron variant is present and circulating in Tulare County. This new variant is very contagious and infectious, which is why it is extremely important we continue all safety measures to prevent becoming infected with COVID-19,” stated Dr. Karen Haught, Tulare County Public Health Officer. “It is especially important for everyone to get vaccinated, get a booster vaccine, and wear a well-fitting face covering or mask while in any public, indoor setting.”

Getting vaccinated and boosted is most important, as data show that vaccines remain one of the most powerful protections against COVID-19 transmission, and we know many will be traveling and gathering with others for the holidays.

The vaccines are effective against the Delta variant and earlier strains of the virus, which allows us to remain hopeful that the approved vaccines will also provide some protection against Omicron. Visit the Tulare County COVID-19 Vaccine webpage at: https://covid19.tularecounty.ca.gov/covid-19-vaccine/ for vaccination locations, including a full listing of health care providers and local pharmacies offering COVID-19 vaccinations. Those seeking to get vaccinated can also visit MyTurn.ca.gov and schedule an appointment.

With continued substantial transmission and a highly infectious new variant, all Tulare County residents should continue adhering to the masking requirements and wear a well-fitting mask that securely covers the nose and mouth when indoors in public places, regardless of vaccination status. Individuals should also wear a mask when at any crowded indoor or outdoor events, public or private.

Testing is an important tool in early detection of infection to reduce spread, and Tulare County Public Health encourages residents who have traveled for the holidays and everyone who participated in holiday gatherings or events to get tested for COVID-19.

Residents are reminded that they are required to isolate if they have a positive COVID test result, regardless of vaccination status, and if they have been in close contact with a person who tested positive for COVID, they should quarantine themselves and get tested. It is very important for individuals who tested positive and those who have been in close contact with a COVID-positive case to refrain from attending any gathering so as not to expose others. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status or exposure, should also get tested for the virus.

Public Health Info

The first case of COVID-19 in Tulare County was identified on March 11, 2020. Since then, the Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency's Public Health Branch has been working closely with local partners, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

All residents should take the precautions listed in Tulare County Public Health's What You Should Know About COVID-19 page on their COVID-19 resource page. Social distancing measures should be followed closely and residents should only leave home for essential business. Stay home. Save lives.

One cannot determine if there is a risk of COVID-19 by judging a person’s nationality and appearance. The desire to do so is called discrimination and this type of stigma creates unwarranted fear and anger towards a group of people instead of directing those feelings at the disease that is causing the problem.

If you suspect you have COVID-19, have come into contact with a person who has COVID-19, or have questions, please call 2-1-1.

More information...

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the State of California COVID-19 site and the County of Tulare Public Health Department remain the best resources for current information about the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and safety tips.

For individuals that have concerns about being infected or how they should proceed with potential medical attention if they believe they are infected, please call the Tulare County Information non-emergency line at 2-1-1.

Helpful Resources

City Services/Operations Update

As any City services or operations change, information will be made available here and on the City of Visalia’s social media channels @CityofVisalia

As of Tuesday, June 15, 2021, City of Visalia offices with public lobbies are now re-opened. Normal business hours continue to be Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at most offices, please see exceptions to this below.

Please note the hours for the following locations:

City Hall West: The front counter at City Hall West will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for utility payments, accounts receivables and business licenses. Passport services continue to be closed until further notice.

Utility payments can still be received by phone until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or placed in the Drop Box near the southwest door. Cash payments that are not exact change and over the amount due will be credited to your account. To make a payment over the phone, or for questions, call the Utility Billing Center at (559) 713-4499.

Police Department District 2 Substation: Normal operating hours for District 2 Substation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Fingerprinting and Live Scan is by appointment only.

Animal Care Center: The Visalia Animal Care Center is open for appointments and has walk-in hours Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12 to 4 p.m.

To schedule an appointment for microchipping, the Trap Neuter Release Community Cat Program, licensing or other service, phone lines are open Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call the Animal Care Center at (559) 713-4700 to make an appointment or for more information.