SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — San Diego County leaders Wednesday expanded the region's ban on public gatherings and face covering rules for essential employers amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The county's ban on public gatherings of more than 10 people has been expanded to any gatherings, unless people live in the same household.
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“We decided to extend the gathering restrictions because people were getting together in parks, beaches and other open spaces,” said Wilma Wooten, county public health officer. “People should stay at home and only go in public when doing essential activities, such as grocery shopping or going to the pharmacy.”
Leaders also expanded face covering requirements for businesses with workers interacting directly with the public to include banks, public transportation, and child care services that serve food.
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Previously, face coverings were only required for places like gas stations, grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies.
The expanded orders come as county leaders encouraged San Diegans to continue practicing social distancing ahead of an expected surge in coronavirus cases around California.
Last weekend, authorities issued dozens of citations to people and businesses for violating social distancing requirements.
As of Wednesday, San Diego County reported 1,530 coronavirus cases.