Officials point out a rapid rise in cases in the state
The State of California has reimposed an indoor mask mandate. This will apply to all, regardless of whether they are vaccinated.
California Health and Human Services Secretary Mark Ghaly announced Monday’s updated policy, citing an increase of COVID-19 caseloads in the state since Thanksgiving holiday.
Monday’s statement by Ghaly was “a crucial time.” We have a tool that we know works and can work. This universal indoor masking tool is being put in place to make sure we have a time of joy, hope and happiness without despair. Californians have done it before and we believe that we can do this again.”
The new mandate for masks will take effect on Wednesday, and expire on January 15. It will be applicable to all, regardless of vaccination status.
This news comes as the Omicron variant has officially spread throughout the state. California reported 18 cases as of Friday.
Unvaccinated persons are subject to additional restrictions. They must show proof of a negative antibody test within 24 hours, or a negative PCR result within 48 hours after attending events with over 1,000 people such as concerts and sporting events. The previous window for a positive test was 72 hours.
California will join Washington, Oregon, Nevada and New Mexico in imposing an indoor masking rule for both the vaccinated as well as those who are not. Washington D.C. has a similar mask mandate.
Cases in California from COVID-19 have increased 47% over Thanksgiving, moving up from 9.6 cases per 100,000 to 14 cases for every 100,000 people each day.
64.8% of the state’s population are currently fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
