COVID-19

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Joe Biden signed the $1.9 trillion economic relief package on Thursday afternoon, ushering in an aggressive infusion of federal aid in a far-reaching effort to address the toll of the coronavirus pandemic. “This historic legislation is about rebuilding the backbone of...

MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County’s indoor face covering ordinance has been triggered, with countywide mask requirements taking effect as soon as this Friday. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published data Monday morning showing that Monterey County was in the “substantial” community transmission rate...

Americans who are fully vaccinated can travel “at low risk to themselves,” both within the United States and internationally, but they must continue to take precautions like wearing a mask in public, avoiding crowds, maintaining social distancing and washing hands frequently, federal health officials...

MONTEREY COUNTY — More Covid-19 vaccines have arrived in Monterey County as planning begins for the next priority tiers for vaccinations, including those who are age 65 and older as announced by the state this week. On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state is...

SALINAS VALLEY — Monterey County companies, organizations and agencies have partnered to host mass vaccination sites weekly, with the latest having taken place at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City last Saturday. Two mass clinics had already taken place earlier this month in Salinas,...

CALIFORNIA — California surpassed 50,000 known coronavirus deaths Wednesday, the first state to reach that chilling milestone. The news comes as a bleak reminder that the recent progress the state has made against the pandemic may be fragile. Most of those deaths were recorded recently,...

MONTEREY COUNTY — Covid-19 pandemic restrictions for businesses in Monterey County ended on June 15, but County Health Officer Dr. Edward Moreno said state guidelines remain in effect and businesses need to become familiar with guidance from CalOSHA. Moreno advised residents to remain vigilant about...

MONTEREY COUNTY — For those feeling stressed, anxious and lonely in the wake of the ongoing pandemic, Interim’s Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) continues to provide outreach opportunities. Interim’s short-term program offers support to individuals struggling with mental illness, and their families who have been affected...

CALIFORNIA — California will roll back its mask requirement next week for vaccinated residents in most indoor spaces, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday. The state implemented the mandate in mid-December as COVID-19 cases began to spike due to the highly infectious omicron variant, requiring residents...

MONTEREY — The Monterey Bay Aquarium will reopen May 15 following an unprecedented 13-month closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. New rules will be in effect for visitors, including online-only ticket sales, required face coverings and timed-entry. All guests age 3 and older, as well as...