Beginning Saturday, July 17, 2021, at 11:59 P.M., Los Angeles County will once again require all residents to wear masks in indoor public spaces, regardless of their vaccination status. The requirement will be reimposed due to rising Los Angeles County COVID-19 cases and the spread of the highly infectious Delta variant.

Los Angeles County reported an average of 1,077 new cases daily during the 7-day period ending July 14, 2021, which is a 261% increase from the prior two-week period. An additional 1,537 cases were reported today, July 15th, representing an increase of over 80% compared to last week.

Los Angeles County’s health officer, Dr. Muntu Davis, indicated that the new health order will permit some exceptions, and will be similar to the masking requirements in effect before California’s June 15th reopening, when the fully vaccinated were no longer required to wear masks in most locations.

It is anticipated that the modified health order will be issued on Friday, July 16th and will remain in effect until COVID-19 infection rates improve.

The author would like to gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Joanne Warriner.