Face covering order issued for State of California to reduce spread of COVID-19

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KION) The California Department of Public Health has released new face covering guidance requiring them to be worn statewide in high-risk situations.

Face coverings will need to be worn:

• Inside of or in line to enter an indoor public space.
• When getting healthcare services in places such as hospitals, pharmacies, medical clinics, physician offices or veterinary clinics.
• While waiting for or riding on public transit or in ride-sharing vehicles.
• In the workplace or performing work off-site when interacting with the public, working in an area visited by the public, in areas where food is prepared or packaged, while working or walking in common areas and in enclosed areas where other people are present and unable to physically distance.
• While driving or operating public transportation or a ride-sharing vehicle.
• While outdoors in public spaces when it is not possible to physically distance

There are exceptions to the order. They are:

• Children aged two years or under. They should not wear face coverings because of the suffocation risk.
• People with medical conditions, mental health conditions or disabilities for whom wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing.
• People who are hearing impaired or communicating with someone who is hearing impaired and require the ability to see the mouth.
• When wearing a face covering would create a risk related to the person's work.
• People getting a service involving the nose or face that requires temporary removal.
• Restaurant customers while eating or drinking.
• People working outdoors or engaging in outdoor recreation.
• People in prisons and jails.

According to the California Department of Public Health, people with COVID-19 who are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic play a big part in community spread, and using face coverings can limit the release of infected droplets while talking, coughing or sneezing.

KION's Max Tarlton will have more tonight at 5 and 6 p.m.

Read the full guidance below.