I am writing with several updates since my last message.

As you know, effective today face coverings are required while indoors in all public places, regardless of vaccination status. The mandate is scheduled to last at least through Jan. 15, and will be re-evaluated.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has updated its Face Coverings Q&A to address the new statewide indoor mask mandate.

CDPH has advised that the new face covering mandate does not impact item 16 (School-Based Extracurricular Activities) of the COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for K-12 Schools in California, 2021-22 School Year. The guidance that is provided under item 16 still applies to situations such as high-exertion indoor sports and playing certain musical instruments.

The Public Health Communications Collaborative and Health Action Alliance have released a Healthy Holiday Safety Tips Toolkit in English and Spanish to help keep you and others safe.

Thank you for all that you do. As always, please reach out if you have any questions.

email: paul.gothold@sdcoe.net