County Health Supporting Return Of Indoor Masking

**Indoor Masking Recommended to Mitigate COVID-19 Risks, Says Contra Costa Health**

In response to rising COVID-19 cases across the Bay Area, Contra Costa Health (CCH) advises wearing masks in crowded indoor environments, especially for individuals at high risk of severe illness from the virus.

This recommendation is not a mandate but is consistent with current state guidelines and recent advice from neighboring counties.

The surge is largely driven by a particularly contagious strain of COVID-19 known as FLiRT, which is spreading across the western U.S. Wastewater testing in Contra Costa County reveals a significant increase in viral levels.

Between May 9 and July 9, state lab testing of wastewater samples from the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District showed COVID-19 concentrations more than quadrupled. Although recent levels have plateaued, they remain elevated.

Most Bay Area health agencies lifted indoor mask mandates in February 2022 but continued to recommend masking, especially for those at higher risk, during periods of high COVID-19 activity.

“Face masks are an effective tool for reducing virus transmission, particularly for those at higher risk of severe illness,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, Contra Costa County’s health officer. “Given the current elevated levels of COVID-19, this is a prudent measure. Our healthcare system is managing well, and our aim is to keep it that way.”

Wearing a well-fitting mask, such as an N95 or KN95 respirator, is advised indoors, particularly in public spaces or when around individuals you don’t live with.

Contra Costa’s only ongoing COVID-related health order requires healthcare workers to wear masks seasonally from November 1 to April 30 each year to protect patients from COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, healthcare workers and visitors to healthcare and congregate care facilities are strongly encouraged to wear masks at this time.

For schools and community colleges, guidance remains unchanged. With the new school year starting this month, CCH recommends encouraging students and faculty—particularly those at higher risk—to wear masks in classrooms and to provide masks to anyone who requests them, if possible.

Other key measures to protect against COVID-19 include staying current with vaccinations, testing when symptomatic, and staying home when feeling unwell. Treatments are available for those at risk of severe illness.

Consult your healthcare provider for advice on vaccination, testing, and treatment. An updated COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be available in late summer or early fall.

Home test kits can be obtained from healthcare providers and pharmacies throughout the county. Check with your healthcare provider or insurer regarding any associated costs.

For more information about COVID-19 in Contra Costa County, visit [cchealth.org/covid19](https://cchealth.org/covid19).