Due to the recent day-over-day case rate increases of COVID-19 from the highly infectious Delta variant, the Sacramento County Public Health Officer strongly recommends masking indoors. In less than a month, Sacramento’s daily case rate has risen drastically, from 3.8 on June 20 to 10 on July 14.
While cases continue to surge and until vaccination rates have increased in Sacramento County, vaccinated residents are strongly recommended to wear masks in indoor settings where vaccination verification is not required and the vaccination status of others is unknown. For example, in a workplace where employee rules allow for no mask after self-attestation of vaccination status, masks do not need to be worn by those who are vaccinated. But in a public space such as a grocery store or restaurant, masks are strongly recommended, regardless of vaccination status.
The current California Department of Public Health (CDPH) masking mandate requires individuals that are not vaccinated to wear face coverings in indoor settings. In addition, face coverings are required in healthcare settings, jails, public transportation and schools.
The steep increase in daily cases is in part, due to the highly contagious Delta variant. Sacramento County currently has 101 confirmed cases, however not every specimen is tested for the variants – so actual numbers may be much higher.
“The drastic increase in cases is concerning – as is the number of people choosing not to get vaccinated,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Olivia Kasirye. “Our best protection against COVID-19 continues to be the vaccine. We urge all eligible residents to get vaccinated in order to protect themselves, and their family and friends.”
Those who are not vaccinated or only partially vaccinated remain highly vulnerable to the infectious Delta variant. Vaccinations have proven to be effective against the Delta variant and all variants of COVID-19 – slowing the rate of spread and mitigating severe symptoms. All residents 12 and older are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Currently, only 47 percent of the County’s population is fully vaccinated. Public Health is increasing efforts to offer free, easy and accessible vaccinations clinics to Sacramento County residents. For a list of vaccination clinics, visit the Sacramento County Public Health Vaccination website, call 2-1-1 or visit www.MyTurn.ca.gov. Homebound residents can contact 2-1-1 to request in-home vaccination services.
