Santa Cruz, California, has ordered an indoor mask mandate for private residents in their own homes during the holiday season.
Santa Cruz County health officer Dr. Gail Newel reinstated the mask mandate last week amid an increase in coronavirus cases in the local area. The order took effect Monday.
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“Unfortunately, a potential winter surge appears to be a significant threat to the health and safety of our community,” Newel said in a statement. “As we look forward to spending time with those we love during the holidays, it is important to protect vulnerable friends and family members by wearing a mask indoors.”
In the County of Santa Cruz, regardless of vaccination status, “masks must be worn in private settings, including YOUR HOME, when non-household members are present.”
Right in time for Thanksgiving…
How did we get to a mindset where this “Order” is even remotely acceptable? pic.twitter.com/RVWCm2sxip
— Eli Klein (@TheEliKlein) November 23, 2021
The order exempted household members alone or with other household members but applied “when non-household members are present,” the order said.
The mandate applies to all people regardless of vaccination status. Residents may remove their mask only “when they are actively performing an activity that cannot be done while wearing a face covering,” such as eating.
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“To help assure compliance, all businesses and governmental entities must require employees to wear masks and post signage that is clearly visible and easy-to-read at all entry points for indoor settings informing the public of the mask requirement,” the county press release said. “Those working in a closed room or office alone or with members of their household do not have to wear a mask.”
