Sonoma County in California has reinstated a mask mandate and strengthened its COVID-19 and influenza prevention measures, citing increased risks of infection as flu season begins.
Dr Karen Smith, the county’s interim health officer, issued a public health order requiring everyone entering certain healthcare facilities to wear masks.
The order applies to advanced care homes, long-term care facilities providing nursing services, acute and non-acute rehabilitation centers, infusion centers, and dialysis clinics.
A spokesperson for the county’s Department of Public Health told Fox News that the mandate aims to protect the most vulnerable groups, such as older adults and cancer patients, and to prevent staff illnesses that could disrupt healthcare operations.
The mandate will remain in effect from 1 November through 31 March 2026, with provisions allowing Dr Smith to expand the list of covered facilities if necessary. The county also indicated that this measure will be renewed annually unless officially repealed.
The order includes exemptions for individuals with diagnosed medical, psychological, or physical conditions preventing them from wearing masks. People who are hard of hearing and rely on lip reading, as well as those deemed at risk by regulatory authorities, are also exempt.
In parallel, Dr Smith issued stronger recommendations for COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, urging all residents aged six months and older to get vaccinated. She also advised mask-wearing in indoor public spaces, regardless of vaccination status, whenever COVID-19 or flu risks are elevated.
Follow the latest news on Google News
