San Luis Obispo County officials on Sunday are urging residents to avoid group gatherings as reports of crowds at local beaches and parks raise concerns.
According to a press release sent to KSBY, local officials emphasized San Luis Obispo County remains under both state and local shelter-at-home orders intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 and avoid overwhelming healthcare workers.
Dr. Penny Borenstein, county health officer, said that, despite the nice weather, now is "not the time" to gather in groups.
"Our county has done a terrific job so far of keeping our rate of new COVID-19 infections in check, and we don't want to risk undoing all that good work," said Borenstein.
Borenstein said using the term 'shelter at home' does not literally mean that people should not leave their homes for essential activities, but rather, they should limit group activity, unnecessary travel and business functions to the most basic and essential needs.
Local health officials are recommending that residents who want to enjoy outdoor activities do the following:
- Check for any local restrictions at city, county and state recreational areas.
- Avoid gathering with others outside of your household.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
- Bring hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to use if soap and water are not available.
To see the latest updates on COVID-19 cases in San Luis Obispo County, visit this website or call the recorded Public Health Information Line at 805-788-2903.
