Santa Cruz County in California has reinstated the indoor mask mandate after winter brought about a surge in coronavirus cases.
Due to the higher numbers of hospitalizations, the county health department is asking people to wear face covers while inside, including in private homes, as The Blaze points out.
What are the details?
The county’s health department took this decision after a seven-day average of 72 virus cases per 100,000 people.
"Unfortunately, a potential winter surge appears to be a significant threat to the health and safety of our community," Santa Cruz County Health Officer Dr. Gaill Newel announced in a statement.
The requirement is in effect both for vaccinated people and for those who did not choose to take the immunization shots. They will all need to wear face coverings when they are indoors.
Businesses and governmental units have also been instructed to ask all employees to have masks on and to post signs at the door, so the public is aware of this rule, according to The Blaze.
Are there any exceptions?
People who work in an office by themselves or who stay in a closed room will not have to wear a mask. Another exception is for members of the same household, as the outlet points out.
Masks can also be avoided when “they cannot be worn safely,” which means activities such as eating, drinking, showering, swimming, getting cosmetic or medical services.
However, every time people in private homes get visits from someone outside their household, they will need to have masks on.
"As we look forward to spending time with those we love during the holidays, it is important to protect vulnerable friends and family members by wearing a mask indoors," Newel explained.
“Everyone who has not been vaccinated should get their first dose as soon as possible, and anyone who was vaccinated more than six months ago should seek out a booster,” he added.
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