The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a new statewide mandate that individuals wear masks indoors in all public settings starting this Wednesday, December 15 regardless of their vaccination status.
Surgical masks or higher-level respirators are recommended. Also, starting the same day, individuals attending “mega-events” [defined as more than 1,000 people indoors and more than 10,000 people outdoors] will be required to show either proof of vaccination, a negative antigen COVID-19 test within one day of the event, or a negative PCR test within two days prior to entry to an event.
Third, the state issued a Travel Advisory to recommend that:
- All travelers arriving in or returning to California from other states or countries should follow CDC travel guidance.
- All travelers arriving in or returning to California from other states or countries should test [sic] 3-5 days upon arrival.
- All travelers who test positive or develop symptoms of COVID-19 should isolate and follow public health recommendations.
Also of note:
- A number of counties, covering about one-half of the state population, have already adopted this indoor mask-wearing mandate.
- This state mandate will continue until January 15.
- There are specific exceptions set forth in the guidance.
- No person can be prevented from wearing a mask as a condition of participation in an activity or entry into a business.
- Enforcement of the new mandate is not clear.
- The state notes that the number of new Covid cases has increased 47% since Thanksgiving.
For updated CDPH guidance: click here
For updated CDPH guidance on mega-events: click here
For CDPH Travel Advisory: click here
For the CDPH press release announcing this action: click here
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