Joint Statement from Bay Area Health Officers Regarding Significant Progress on COVID-19 Indicators and Next Steps for Reopening

Thanks to the steadfast commitment of our residents to stay home, practice social distancing, and follow public health guidance, we have seen sustained progress on several key indicators regarding containment of COVID-19.  This has remained true a full incubation period after the reopening of construction, outdoor businesses, and certain outdoor activities on May 4, 2020.  Region-wide progress on the COVID-19 Indicators jointly set by Bay Area Health Officers includes:

• The trend of new cases of COVID-19 has been stable or decreasing, even with increased testing;
• The number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 is stable or declining, and hospital capacity is sufficient for both COVID-19 patients and other patients who need hospital care;
• More COVID-19 tests are being performed in our region each day;
• Hospitals are reporting improved supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), though shortages continue in certain healthcare settings; and
• There is increased capacity for case investigation and contact tracing.

While much work remains to be done, in light of this progress, we are issuing a new order today that allows retail establishments to offer curbside pick-up, and also allows manufacturing, warehousing, and logistical operations to resume.  We are counting on these businesses to consistently follow social distancing protocols and public health guidance to protect their employees and customers as these activities resume.  We take this step knowing that COVID-19 continues to pose a very significant risk to our communities, and that continued vigilance is necessary to ensure that we do not see an increase in spread as more activities resume.  

As we reopen certain sectors, Bay Area residents are still required by health order to stay home as much as possible, should wear face coverings when they leave home, and follow the precautions that have helped the region make progress to slow the spread of COVID-19. As we move forward, we will continue to be guided by our COVID-19 Indicators and other data related to the spread of COVID-19 in our region.