Contra Costa Health recommends masking as local COVID cases rise
Contra Costa Health said Tuesday that it is now recommending masking in indoor settings due to increased COVID-19 infections throughout the Bay Area.
"With evidence of increased COVID-19 infections throughout the Bay Area, Contra Costa Health (CCH) recommends masking in crowded indoor settings, particularly for those at high risk of serious illness if infected," CCH said.
While the recommendation is not a health order, it does align with existing state requirements and advice issued in neighboring counties as COVID cases continue a summer surge of cases.
Harriet Rowan
A particularly infectious strain of COVID-19, FLiRT, is spreading throughout the western U.S. and driving the current surge. Wastewater sampling from Contra Costa County shows a steady increase in the presence of the virus.
Dr. Ori Tzvieli, Contra Costa County’s health officer, said masking is a good idea during an increase in cases.
“Face masks are an effective tool to reduce the spread of the virus, particularly for those who are at risk for serious illness when there is evidence of elevated COVID-19 activity in the community,” Tzvieli said.
State lab testing of wastewater samples from the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District showed that concentrations of COVID-19 more than quadrupled from May 9 to July 9.
Health agencies across the Bay Area continue to strongly recommend using masking, particularly for those at high risk for serious illness, as a prevention measure whenever COVID-19 case rates are high.
Wearing a well-fitting mask, such as an N95 or KN95 respirator, is a good choice indoors, particularly in public spaces or around people with whom you do not live.
Workers and visitors to healthcare facilities, including skilled nursing and congregate care facilities, are strongly encouraged to mask now in those settings. Contra Costa’s singular COVID-related health order requires workers at healthcare facilities to mask seasonally, from Nov. 1 to April 30 each year, to reduce the risk to patients from COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
With the school year beginning this month for most campuses in the county, CCH is encouraging students and faculty to wear masks in classrooms and provide masks to those who ask for them.
Testing for COVID-19 is recommended if you are not feeling well or if you have any symptoms, as is staying home from work or school when you feel ill. Contact your healthcare provider for advice on vaccination.
Home test kits are available from healthcare providers and pharmacies throughout Contra Costa County.
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