San Diego, CA–The California Department of Public Health has issued new mask requirements starting December 15 in response to the increase in cases and hospitalizations in the state and the detection of the new Omicron variant.
San Diegans will be required to wear a mask while indoors in all public places, regardless of their vaccination status, under a new statewide mandate issued Monday.
The indoor face covering mandate is scheduled to last at least through Jan. 15, 2022 and will be reevaluated.
“Masks help to slow the spread of COVID-19 and its many variants,” said Wilma J. Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “San Diegans should wear a mask while indoors in public places to protect themselves and others.”
The state COVID-19 public health updated procedures also include COVID-19 testing prior to attending mega events, and a negative PCR test is required 48 hours before an event or an antigen test 24 hours before the event. Also, travelers to the state need to get a COVID-19 test three to five days after arrival.