COVID-19 is back! The government of this country has made masks mandatory for people, learn the full details.

In Sonoma County, California, due to the increasing threat of COVID-19 and the onset of flu season, masks have been made mandatory. According to reports, this rule will be in effect from November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, and can be renewed annually. Sonoma County health officials stated the purpose of this order is to protect the elderly, those suffering from serious illnesses like cancer, and healthcare workers, to prevent problems like staffing shortages in hospitals.

Sonoma County's interim health officer, Dr. Karen Smith, issued the order on Monday, stating that masks will be mandatory for people entering certain healthcare facilities. Only KN95, KF94, and N95 masks will be valid. The order clarified that common masks, such as scarves, bandanas, or any mask with a valve that allows air to escape, will not be permitted. This ensures the safety of both the wearer and those around them.

Certain individuals are exempt from this rule. This includes those whose medical conditions, mental health, or physical disabilities make it impossible to wear a mask. Hearing impaired individuals are also exempt, allowing them to communicate by hearing others. Along with the mask rule, the Department of Health has issued guidelines for COVID-19 and flu vaccines. Officials strongly recommend that everyone six months and older receive these vaccines.

COVID-19 cases have been rising recently in the United States. A new variant called XFG 'Stratus' is spreading rapidly. According to CDC data, several US states have "high" or "very high" virus levels. Overall, national COVID-19 activity has been classified as "moderate." Nineteen states, including Nevada, Utah, Connecticut, and Delaware, have very high virus levels. Mask rules and vaccine recommendations are aimed at protecting the elderly and immunocompromised and avoiding staffing problems in hospitals.