How avian influenza is affecting people across California. Why Sacramento libraries are increasingly becoming centers for social services. Finally, breaking down the new CARE Court system in Sacramento.

Avian Influenza in California

Avian influenza is spreading across California. Hundreds of dairies have been affected by the virus, and a raw milk farm has been quarantined after the bird flu was detected in its products. Dozens of people in the state have also contracted the disease, including a child in Alameda County last month. Dr. Dean Blumberg, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at UC Davis Health provides the latest updates on the avian influenza, as well as COVID and other seasonal diseases.

The Evolving Role of Sacramento’s Libraries

Libraries have long been institutions of reading, information, and knowledge. But recently, these public spaces have also become centers to provide social services and address some of society’s most complex challenges. Sacramento Public Library Director and CEO Peter Coyl talks about how librarians are navigating these issues, and the resources needed to care for both staff and customer wellbeing.

CARE Court Rolls Out in Sacramento

Sacramento County recently launched its CARE Court program, which aims to help treat people with severe mental health or substance use disorders before they end up hospitalized, incarcerated, or in a conservatorship. CapRadio Health Care Reporter Kate Wolffe breaks down the CARE Court process, the challenges the program has faced early in the rollout, and what the larger implications are for people seeking care.