COUNTY MOVES BACK TO PURPLE TIER SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Press Release

Due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases locally and throughout the state, Santa Cruz County will be moving back into the widespread purple tier effective immediately. Santa Cruz County is one of 41 counties in the purple tier, encompassing the vast majority of California’s population.

In the purple tier, places of worship, movie theaters, restaurants, gyms and fitness centers will only be allowed to have outdoor services with health and safety modifications. Businesses need to have new restrictions in place no later than Tuesday, November 17th .

“The sharp rise in COVID-19 cases is very concerning,” said Jen Herrera, Chief of Public Health. “COVID-19 continues to pose a severe risk to our community. It is critical that everyone follow social distancing guidelines and not gather in groups as we head into the holidays.”

On Friday, November 13th, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released a travel advisory stating travelers should quarantine upon arrival or return to the state. CDPH also released Guidance for the Prevention of COVID-19 Transmission for Gatherings. All people should follow necessary precautions and to adapt the way they live and function in light of this ongoing risk. The safest way to gather is to spend time with people in the same household, gather virtually, or gather outdoors.

In addition, anyone experiencing COVID symptoms, even mild, should be tested. If you receive a negative test, you should finish quarantining and not end early – typically 14 days after your last close contact with a person who has COVID-19. Testing locations can be found at www.santacruzhealth.org/testing. Contact your medical provider if you have questions about your quarantine or isolation period.

For more information on the State framework, visit https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/.

For local information on COVID-19, go to www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus, call 211 or text “COVID19” to 211211.

Residents may also call (831) 454-4242 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.