The spike in California’s coronavirus numbers prompted the state to issue what amounts to a new curfew for most of the state.
A new limited “Stay At Home” order applies to 41 of the state’s 58 counties, including Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.
The State Health Department order taking effect Saturday night is an effort to limit high risk activities like going to bars and parties which have been called key factors is spreading COVID-19.
State Health And Human Services Director Dr. Mark Ghaley says under the order, you can still go to the supermarket or drug store, or walk your dog after 10 p.m. But, all restaurants and bars have to close for in-person dining at 10. They can still offer takeout after 10 p.m.
The order will be in effect until December 21st.
The state is seeing its largest number of new coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic. The previous high was a 39% one-week spike in June. But, the state had a 51% increase in the last full week or reporting.