This Tuesday, June 15, California is lifting most of the restrictions imposed by COVID-19, so San Mateo County leaders encouraged everyone to get vaccinated at free clinics.
"San Mateo County and California residents have done their part very well: the total number of vaccines given so far is more than 1 million in the county and 40 million in the state," said David J. Canepa, chairman of the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors.
"June 15 is the day when everyday life returns to normal and that is a cause for celebration. It's time we can get rid of these masks in most environments," he added.
Although "it's important to remember that not everyone can receive a vaccine due to health considerations, and children under the age of 12 are not eligible. We still need to protect these people, so, if asked, wear your mask," said County Administrator Mike Callagy.
And it was as of the first minute of this Tuesday that California moves "Beyond the Blueprint - Blueprint for a Safer Economy," which ends the color-coded reopening level systems and lifts most restrictions on businesses.
In that regard, the county detailed that it fully aligns with all state COVID-19 health and safety guidelines and has no plans to impose separate guidelines.
What changes? What do you need to know?
Starting today, Tuesday, California lifts some restrictions, so there are no longer capacity or distancing requirements for most businesses or public settings.
Fully vaccinated persons may stop wearing mouthguards outdoors and indoors, with the following exceptions:
- By public transport (buses, ridesharing, taxis, planes, trains, ferries)
- Indoors in K-12 schools, child care and other youth settings
- Health care settings and long-term care facilities
- Correctional Facilities and Detention Centers
- Homeless shelters, emergency shelters, and cooling centers
It should be noted that businesses, public agencies and other organizations may still require masks for both employees and the general public.
In the case of Saint MatthewThe new law, for example, will require those entering county offices or interacting with county employees to cover their faces.
In addition, county employees will also be required to use them in accordance with the workplace safety requirements of the Division of Occupational Safety and Health, better known as Cal-OSHA, and the county will also continue to enforce physical distance requirements in county offices.
"What's important to remember is that not everyone can receive a vaccine due to health considerations, and children under the age of 12 are not eligible. We still need to protect these people, so, if asked, wear your mask," said County Administrator Mike Callagy.
"Be patient. Be kind. Leave no one behind," he added.
The county stressed that anyone 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in San Mateo. Vaccines are widely available at health care providers, as well as at certain pharmacies and other locations.
However, testing remains an important strategy to continue to reduce the spread of the disease and to protect those who have not been vaccinated.
Testing is available for all ages, including young children and infants. All testing sites now use more comfortable methods by rubbing the front of the nose or mouth.
Finally, the county reminded that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over. The coronavirus is deadly and highly contagious for those who are not vaccinated. "Continue to do your part to stop the spread and get tested if you suspect you have been in contact with an infected person or have symptoms."
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