Although Marin is the only Bay Area county not in the state’s most restrictive purple tier risk category, MHHS has tightened local rules for higher-risk indoor activities where the virus can spread more easily. Until further notice, indoor dining at restaurants is banned and businesses are now required to conform to the restrictions under tier 2 of the State of California Blueprint for a Safer Economy.
According to a recent Marin Public Health Update, people under age 30 are driving the rise of COVID-19 cases throughout the Bay area. Marin has the oldest population percentage in the Bay, and we are doing better than surrounding counties because the older populations are being much more cautious by staying home and protected.
Dr. Lisa Santora, Deputy Public Health Officer of HHS, has said that there is a lag in test results. Where we used to have a 1-2 day turnaround, currently it’s 3-4 days and may extend to a 5 day turnaround soon if demand continues to overwhelm testing capacity.
No Cost Home Test Kits
Pixel by Labcorp is offering an FDA-approved home test covered by private insurance. Those without insurance may get the kits for free. LabCorp is reserving access to kits for individuals experiencing symptoms or those who have been asked to get tested by a healthcare provider, public health department, or contact investigator.
According to Dr. Santora, vaccine distribution will most likely begin in January. Health providers and first responders will be able to receive the first round; staff and residents of care facilities will be next in line. The third group to receive the vaccine will be those with conditions that put them at high risk of complications from the virus. The general Marin population is likely to be offered the vaccine in Spring, maybe as early as March.