California COVID Surge Prompts New Mask Advice as Cases Double

California faces a significant late-summer COVID-19 surge. Health officials are urging renewed caution as cases and hospitalizations rise sharply across the state. The increase follows a national trend of growing infections.

Yolo County Health Officer Dr. Aimee Sisson has formally advised residents to wear masks indoors again. This recommendation is based on high virus levels detected in local wastewater surveillance systems.

Virus Metrics Show Sharp Statewide Increase

Key COVID-19 metrics have worsened throughout California. Statewide test positivity rates have more than doubled in just one month. According to the LA Times, the rate reached 12.07% for the week ending August 23.

Hospital admissions have also nearly doubled in that same period. The current rate is 3.62 admissions per 100,000 residents. Emergency room visits for COVID-like illnesses are rising in several major counties.

Health Officials Recommend Protective Measures

The response from public health leaders is clear and direct. Dr. Sisson recommends that everyone over age two wear masks indoors in areas with high wastewater levels. She specifically advises using high-quality, well-fitting masks like N95, KN95, or KF94.

Vaccination remains a critical defense against severe illness. Updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season are expected at pharmacies imminently. Officials stress that these new shots will provide important protection.

The current California COVID surge underscores the virus’s persistent presence. Health experts strongly recommend masking in high-risk areas and getting the updated vaccine to prevent severe outcomes.

Info at your fingertips

Why are COVID cases rising now?

Health officials attribute the surge to summer gatherings, holiday travel, and students returning to school. These activities increase person-to-person contact and transmission.

Who should wear a mask right now?

Masks are advised for all people in counties with high virus levels. Those over 65 or immunocompromised should mask even in areas with medium levels.

How does this surge compare to previous ones?

While hospitalizations are currently lower than last summer’s peak, positivity rates in some areas are higher than last winter. Its full severity is still being assessed.

When is the new COVID vaccine available?

The updated vaccine is expected at major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens in early September. Health officials encourage the public to get vaccinated promptly.

What are the symptoms of the new variants?

Reported symptoms are similar to previous strains. They include sore throat, congestion, fatigue, and cough. Symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person.

Sources: LA Times, Newsweek, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Yolo County Public Health.