The California Department of Public Health has announced new masking recommendations for indoor public settings in response to rising transmission rates of the contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus.
Similar guidelines were released this week by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The updated guidelines apply to all Californians, regardless of vaccination status.
"The Delta variant has caused a sharp increase in hospitalizations and case rates across the state. We are recommending masking in indoor public places to slow the spread while we continue efforts to get more Californians vaccinated,” said Dr. Tomás Aragón, California Department of Public Health director and state public health officer.
Los Angeles County already reinstated its mask guidelines on July 18, which require residents to wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status. LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer said that mandate will help slow the spread of COVID-19.
The county has seen a surge in the number of coronavirus cases. Hospitalizations are also on the rise.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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