Solano County could move into less-restrictive "red" tier as early as next week
(Graphic by Solano NewsNet)
Solano County could move into the less-restrictive “red” tier for COVID-19 restrictions as early as next week, the county’s top health official said on Tuesday.
Speaking before the Solano County Board of Supervisors, Solano County Public Health Officer Dr. Bela Matyas said the rate of infection had eased to the point where the county may meet the state’s threshold for reverting to the red tier.
“I think the fact that we are doing so well with test positivity is an indication of genuine reduction in disease rates in our community,” Dr. Matyas said in comments reported by Bay City News.
State data shows Solano County’s positivity rate for COVID-19 tests has dropped to less than 3 percent, and the county is averaging 8 new positive COVID-19 infections per day.
The rate of infection is significantly less compared to just a few months ago when the county started seeing a spike in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations.
Currently, Solano County is listed in the “purple” restriction tier, which requires the most-severe restrictions on residents and businesses. A move to the red tier would allow restaurants in Solano County to offer indoor dining at less than 25 percent capacity or fewer than 100 people, whichever is less. Gyms would also be allowed to reopen for indoor services at 10 percent capacity.
Retailers would be allowed to increase their indoor customer capacity from 25 percent to 50 percent, and other indoor gatherings — while still largely discouraged — are permitted with individuals from up to three households.
Bars and breweries that do not serve food would be forced to remain closed until the county progresses to the even-less restrictive “orange” tier.
State health officials have not offered any indication that Solano County or nearby Bay Area counties would be moved into the less-restrictive tier next week or anytime into the future, but Dr. Matyas said the data looks promising and is otherwise an indication that Solano County is improving when it comes to curbing new infections.
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