The Imperial County Public Health Officer has issued a universal indoor masking order.

The updated order , released Tuesday , required the use of face coverings regardless of vaccination statue. Under the order , Imperial County residents and visitors are required to wear face coverings in all indoor public settings  , venues , gatherings , and workplaces. That includes offices , retail stores , restaurants and bars , theaters , family entertainment centers , conference centers and government offices. The local universal masking order goes into effect at midnight Wednesday , August 18, 20921. 

Dr. Stephen Munday , County Health Officer , said , " The continued rise in cases is of utmost concern , particularly in our neighboring counties who help support our local healthcare system. Out of an abundance of caution , indoor face covering s being required as a simple , effective way to help us slow the spread of COVID-19 and to help reduce the number of preventable hospitalizations and deaths in our community."

Some exemptions to the order include persons working alone in a closed office or room , persons actively eating or drinking. Other exemptions include children younger than two years old , persons with a medical condition that wearing a mask would obstruct breathing. Individuals exempt from wearing a face covering in public indoor settings are required to wear a face shield with a cloth drape attached to the bottom.