Mask Restrictions Loosened Monday In Newark

NEWARK, CA — Fully vaccinated individuals can go mask-free in select indoor places in Newark as of Monday.

The Alameda County Health Services Agency announced last week that people who show proof of vaccination can take off their masks in indoor places that are not open to the public and contain fewer than 100 people, such as the following:

• Offices
• Gyms and fitness centers
• Commuter vehicles
• Indoor college classes
• Organized gatherings, including religious gatherings

Hosts, businesses and organizations must verify that everyone in a room is vaccinated, according to the county. Guests must also be free of COVID-19 symptoms.

If you're headed to the grocery store, a K-12 school, or a bar or restaurant, be sure to grab a mask. The new rules do not apply to indoor places that are open to the general public.

"Vaccinated people are less likely to become infected with COVID-19, especially if those around them are also vaccinated, and they are less likely to experience severe disease" said Dr. Nicholas Moss, county health officer, in a statement. "Allowing vaccinated people to remove their masks in these limited, controlled settings carries lower risk. If vaccinated people choose to continue wearing masks, they should feel comfortable doing so."

Neighboring Contra Costa County also relaxed restrictions Monday for fully vaccinated people.
Officials continued to urge residents of all ages to get vaccinated and receive booster doses in order to curb the spread of the coronavirus. COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations have decreased as vaccination rates have increased in Alameda County and nationwide.