Riverside County extends face covering/social distancing orders to June

Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Cameron Kaiser extended his order requiring residents to wear face coverings when outside and keep practicing social distancing.

Face coverings can be bandanas, scarves, neck gaiters or other clothing that does not have visible holes.

Social distancing means staying at least six-feet away from someone.

The county's order is now in effect through June 19. The original order was set to end on April 30.

Riverside County's health order prohibiting gatherings outside the home also expires on April 30. This does not mean that public gatherings will be allowed. Instead, Riverside County will follow the governor’s stay at home order on gatherings. This order has no expiration date.

The governor's order that all residents must stay home unless they are engaged in an essential business or activity, such as grocery shopping or visiting the doctor.

“While we work within the governor’s plan for re-opening the state, people must be mindful that COVID-19 has not been eliminated,” Dr. Kaiser said. “The new normal in Riverside County will still require social distancing, facial coverings, and other precautions. Summer will only slow the virus, and we are already thinking about what will happen in the fall.”

Other county order in effect until June 19 include the closure of Riverside County schools and limits to short-term lodging.

Riverside County also recently allowed various outdoor activities like golf, hiking, pickleball, and tennis. The county also issued a one swimmer per pool policy at private pools (HOA, apartment complex, hotel, motel, and country clubs).