San Bernardino County Issues Countywide Face Mask Order

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Ca. – San Bernardino County announced on Tuesday that residents are now ordered to use face covering when leaving home.

Face coverings include covering that secures to the ears or the back of the head. The coverings must fully cover the mouth and the nose. Homemade cloth ear loop covers, bandannas, handkerchiefs and neck gaiters are just some of what can be used to reduce the spread of COVID-19, particularly among asymptomatic people. Do not buy N95 surgical masks, as they are needed for healthcare workers and emergency responders. “Staying home, practicing social distancing and frequent handwashing are far more effective ways to combat the spread of COVID-19, and face coverings are not a substitute for those practices,” said Dr. Erin Gustafson, the County’s Acting Public Health Officer.

In addition, with the upcoming Easter holiday, faith based services must only be held by streaming or other online technology. People may not leave their homes for driving parades or drive-up services or to pick up non-essential items such as prepackaged Easter eggs or bags filled with candy and toys at a drive-thru location. “We understand that this is an important time for Christians around the world and it is natural to want to worship and celebrate with our families. Right now, however, is a critical time for our country and our community – we can still celebrate this time from the safety of our individual homes while we help flatten the curve and save lives,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Curt Hagman. “When we stay home we help our healthcare workers and our emergency responders and vulnerable populations beat COVID-19.”

It is encouraged that single-family, home-based worshipping and activities, including Easter egg hunts be held inside the home or in residential backyards, and with only household members.  As of today, San Bernardino County has 530 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and the deaths of 16 county residents have been associated with the disease.

Violation of the order is a crime punishable by up to a $1,000 fine or imprisonment up to 90 days, or both.For information about the coronavirus crisis, visit the County’s coronavirus website at sbcovid19.com. New information and resources are updated daily. The public can also contact the COVID-19 hotline from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday at (909) 387-3911, or email the County at coronavirus@dph.sbcounty.gov.

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