California Brings Back Indoor Mask Mandate As COVID-19 Cases Surge After Thanksgiving
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) – California public health leaders are reinstituting a universal indoor mask requirement.
Dr. Mark Ghaly, the state's Health and Human Services Secretary, announced the mandate on Monday. He cited statistics that show a significant increase in COVID-19 cases across the state since the Thanksgiving holiday.
The mandate means everyone, regardless of their vaccination status, is being directed to wear a mask indoors.
Further, more requirements are also being put in place for people who are unvaccinated and trying to attend so-called mega-events like concerts and sporting events. People who are unvaccinated will now need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test 48 hours or less before the event.
Along with the surge in COVID-19 cases, the requirements come at the same time that the omicron variant has spiked fears of a new wave.
The requirements will go into effect Dec. 15 and will stay in place until Jan. 15, 2022.
