Dear Cuesta Colleagues,

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated guidance today in alignment with CDC and recommends masking in public indoor settings regardless of vaccination status.

In response to the spike in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, and new CDC guidance calls for masking measures to prevent the spread of the highly transmissible and deadly Delta variant, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated its Guidance for Face Coverings, recommending mask use for indoor public settings, regardless of vaccination status.

“The Delta variant has caused a sharp increase in hospitalizations and case rates across the state. We are recommending masking in indoor public places to slow the spread while we continue efforts to get more Californians vaccinated,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer.

Under the CDC’s new guidance, more than 90% of California’s population is currently in areas designated as substantial or high transmission. At this time, SLO County is not designated as substantial or high transmission, but local case rates are increasing rapidly.

Masks are not required for fully vaccinated employees at Cuesta College, but are strongly encouraged indoors.  According to the CDC, getting vaccinated helps protect from the virus and the circulating variants, including the Delta variant that is now seen in the majority of California’s new cases. CDPH notes vaccination against COVID-19 is the most effective means of preventing infection with the COVID-19 virus, and subsequent transmission and outbreaks.

CDPH emphasizes that COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians can go to myturn.ca.gov or call (833) 422-4255 to schedule their appointment or go to myturn.ca.gov/clinic to find a walk-in clinic in their county. Target offers free, walk-in vaccine service in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles.

Let’s continue our vigilant effort to maintain healthy campuses and encourage one another through the end of the pandemic. 

Jill signature 

Jill Stearns, Ph.D.

Superintendent/President

Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403 

805.546.3118 | www.cuesta.edu