A dozen Bay Area health officers are urging community members to take precautions amid rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, including masking indoors.
“The Bay Area now has California’s highest COVID infection rates,” according to the health officers. “The current wave is fueled by highly contagious Omicron subvariants. Bay Area counties are seeing increases in reported cases, levels of virus in sewersheds, and hospitalizations. Actual case rates are higher than those reported because of widespread use of home tests.”
In addition to masking indoors, health officers recommend that residents “keep tests handy, and ensure they are up to date on vaccinations by getting boosters when eligible.” Those who feel sick should stay home and get tested right away. Large gatherings should be limited to well ventilated spaces or outdoors, health officials said.
Health officers add that medications are available that can help to reduce the chances of severe illness and death in vulnerable community members.
“While San Mateo County is not currently considering implementing a local health order to require indoor masking, we stress that this is a time for everyone to take advantage of all the protective measures they can,” said Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County health officer.
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