As the worldwide situation continues to improve thanks to the decrease of COVID spread and vaccines, governments all around the world are looking into new measures. This time it’s turn for the Golden State of California, where indoor concerts, theatre performances, and other private gatherings can start taking place from April 15.
According to the latest information, starting from mid-April, the state will also allow sporting events and conferences in eligible areas. The vaccination is making progress and as of April 2, 18 million people have been vaccinated in the state. On top of that, there were only 2,414 active cases on that day. The COVID-19 vaccination program continues, extending the eligibility to receive the shot for residents ages 16 and up also from April 15.
Besides, California Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón confirmed that attendees at any event will need to prove they have been fully vaccinated. This requirement clashes with the division of opinions on whether a vaccination passport should be used in this kind of situation. On top of that, he anticipates that “in the future that the solution will be digital”. While some states are fighting in order to ban these certificates, other states are launching new digital vaccine passports.
California Divides The State into Four Tiers
If we take a look at California’s new Blueprint for a Safer Economy we can now find a division in the state into four tiers – Purple, Red, Orange, and Yellow. These divisions only depend on local case rates and allow certain kinds of activities consequently. The Purple Tier is most restrictive, where indoor concerts and theatre performances will not take place. But people living in these areas will be able to enjoy outdoor gatherings limited to only three households. On the other hand, there will be outdoor gatherings of up to 50 people for counties in the Red Tier. Regarding big venues with capacities of up to 1,500, there will be able to operate at 10% capacity. The number reaches 20% capacity if the venue holds upwards of 1,500.
But the really interesting measures will take place for people living in the Orange and Yellow Tiers. Cities like Los Angeles will let indoor activities with up to 150 people. Attendees will need to prove they have been vaccinated or show proof of testing taking place. The advantage of being in the Yellow Tier is that the number increases up to 200 people. California will have indoor concerts back for certain areas this month.
“Today’s update to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy is a result of the progress we are making both in vaccinations and in controlling the spread of COVID-19 […] By following public health guidelines such as wearing masks and getting vaccinated when eligible, we can resume additional activities as we take steps to reduce risk.”
California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly
