###
Official health officials were surprised two weeks ago when the state moved Humboldt County to a less restricted COVID level. During those two weeks, we were the only county in California that was both in a purple level and not affected by a local home order. We were the only county in California that allowed eating inside restaurant.
Local residents at the time warned that we would probably not stay in the red zone for long, given our rising business rates, and this afternoon it would be: the Department of Public Health has re-assigned us to the most restrictive – press – level. The old restrictions that were in force a few weeks ago will be reinstated tomorrow at 23:59.
Press Release of the Humboldt County Joint Information Center:
The California Department of Public Health announced today that Humboldt County will be reassigned to the “Purple” or widespread level, which will tighten COVID-19 safety measures as the local case and positivity rates continue to rise.
The Humboldt County Health Officer, dr. Ian Hoffman, said that the adjusted rate of 25.2 and the positivity rate of 6.5% are much higher than the criteria for the press level. “This step by the state reflects what we saw last month when the virus worsened locally,” he said.
These measures are intended to reduce movement in the community in an effort to limit contact between people who would not normally see each other. At the press level, some industry sectors will have to change or cease business operations. In addition to sector changes, outdoor gatherings are only allowed and should be limited to three households, while also keeping distance and wearing face masks at all times.
Changes below the press level include:
- Bars, breweries and distilleries – Closed.
- Wineries – Open only outdoors.
- Family Entertainment Centers – Open only outdoors.
- Retail – Open indoors with a maximum capacity of 25%.
- Shopping malls, shopping malls, exchange meet – Open indoors with a maximum capacity of 25%; Close common areas; Close food courts.
- Museums, zoos and aquariums – Open only outdoors.
- Places of worship – Open only outdoors.
- Movie Theaters – Open only outdoors.
- Hotels and lodging – Includes indoor pools, hot tubs, hot tubs, spa facilities and fitness centers.
- Gyms & Fitness Centers – Open only outdoors.
- Restaurant – Open only outdoors.
Dr. Hoffman said the pandemic hit us all hard, especially families with school-going children, our seniors and the business community. The return to the press level, although expected, will surely have an impact on everyone. I would encourage everyone to contact their loved ones to provide safe support and remember local businesses the next time you shop. We can get through this pandemic by supporting each other. ”
Changes below press level take effect Wednesday at 11:59 pm For a full list of changes, go to https://tinyurl.com/statetierchanges.
For the latest COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or during business hours by contacting [email protected] or calling 707-441-5000.