San Andreas, CA…On March 9, 2021, the California Department of Public Health announced that effective March 10, 2021, Calaveras County will be moved from the purple tier to the red tier in the state’s 4-tier system. The red tier is less restrictive and allows for some business activities to resume, such as indoor dining at 25% capacity. Visit Blueprint for a Safer Economy to find specific business information and the county’s latest status.

The changes come as COVID-19 cases decrease. Changes to the tier system can occur any day of the week and may occur more than once a week when immediate action is needed to slow the spread of COVID-19. Counties are required to put into place any sector changes the day following the tier announcement. The goal is to make sure patients can get the access to care they need and prevent hospitals from being overrun. Calaveras Public Health urges caution and encourages people to take the necessary steps to prevent being exposed to the virus and help the county continue to lower its risk level.

Protect yourself and others from COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus:
 Wear a face mask that covers your nose and mouth when you leave home, including public places and anywhere you will be around people who do not live with you.
 Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
 Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.
 Stay home if you are sick.
 Avoid gatherings.

Everyone is at risk for COVID-19 and should take precautions to avoid getting exposed to the virus. Older adults and people with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness and death from COVID-19. This means that they may be hospitalized, require a ventilator to help them breathe, or may even be fatal. COVID-19 can be very serious and Calaveras Public Health asks that you follow the safety guidelines.

Symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. The symptoms of COVID-19 include:
 Fever or chills
 Cough
 Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
 Fatigue
 Muscle or body aches
 Headache
 New loss of taste or smell
 Sore throat
 Congestion or runny nose
 Nausea or vomiting
 Diarrhea

Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing signs, seek emergency care immediately:
 Trouble breathing
 New confusion or weakness
 Bluish lips or face
 Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
 Inability to wake or stay awake

To receive information and resources related to COVID-19 visit the Calaveras County COVID-19 website.