Newsom says the state must reach the vaccination target, and most SoCal provinces can change to red level

LOS ANGELES (KABC) – Los Angeles and other provinces in Southern California could move into the less restricted red level of the state over the weekend, allowing more businesses to reopen.

Government Gavin Newsom, during an event in South Gate, said the state was on track to reach a key target that would allow provinces to accelerate their shifts to less restricted levels.

The state is working to improve the distribution of vaccines to the most severely affected communities and sets a target of 2 million doses distributed to the communities as a measure to allow for more shifts. The state is expected to reach 2 million by Friday.

Southern California remains below the purple level, but four counties may be ready for a move to the red level after the state reaches the point.

“We stand at 1.9 million today,” Newsom said Wednesday. “On Friday we will reach the goal. Once we reach the threshold, we will be able to move through these levels faster. This will enable us to update our level strategy and enable us to start reopening more strategically and safely. . “

Exactly when that could happen is still unclear, especially in Los Angeles County, where officials believe it could take 48 hours to make the move.

Other provinces could possibly reduce restrictions by Saturday.

Los Angeles County’s director of public health, dr. Barbara Ferrer, said her department is already working on guidelines for moving to the red level. She expects to announce the guidelines Thursday. She said it has not yet been determined whether the province will allow indoor meals within the new level.

Ferrer added that if businesses and the public follow the guidelines and safety protocols, it could generate enough progress within a few weeks for a move to the even less restrictive orange level.

Since LA County is only a few days away from access to the red level, fitness centers can open indoors. Sandy Duvall, owner of Sierra Health and Fitness, has heard that gyms will open at 10%. Her gym survived as a result of a 2,000-square-foot outdoor gym built in their parking lot.

The red level also allows provinces to reopen cinemas and expand the capacity for retail stores and shopping malls.

LA County also announced that supervisors, caretakers, public transportation workers, airport staff, foster parents and some social workers are eligible for the vaccine.