City of Long Beach Issues Updated Health Order

Long Beach, CA – The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) has issued an updated Health Order, that took effect on November 5, 2021, addressing requirements for schools using the modified quarantine option, clarifying testing requirements for mega events, and providing further clarification regarding workplace protocols. 

Requirements for Schools Using the Modified Quarantine Option 

Schools may now provide a modified quarantine option for students who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. This option allows students without symptoms to continue in-person learning if they are tested at least twice a week using an appropriate molecular test, either rapid antigen or PCR, done through the school’s testing program if they have one. If the student tests negative, they can be released from quarantine on day eight. The modified quarantine begins the day after the parent(s) or guardian(s) receives notice of exposure. 

Close contact is a person who either: 

• has been within six feet of an infected person for a cumulative of 15 minutes or more during a 24-hour period, or
• has been in direct contact with the infected person’s bodily fluids (such as being coughed or sneezed on; having shared utensils with; or kissed).

Testing for Mega Events 

Mega events, defined as events with crowds that number 1,000 attendees indoors per day or 10,000 attendees outdoors per day, are considered higher risk for COVID-19 transmission. These events require proof of fully vaccinated status or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event start time. This Health Order clarifies that these policies apply to attendees two years old and older.  

Clarification Regarding Workplace Protocols 

Masks are required for everyone, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status, in nearly all indoor settings, with rare exception. This updated Health Order clarifies that individuals engaged in performing arts, such as musical or theatrical performances, may perform for an audience without a mask. This exemption is limited to the period of time when such tasks are being performed. Those who remove their masks while performing must be tested twice weekly for COVID-19 unless they have provided proof of full vaccination or proof of recovery from laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 within the past 90 days.  

The Health Order also clarifies that masks must be worn by two or more employees traveling together by car. 

This action was put in place by the City Health Officer, Dr. Anissa Davis, and in accordance with the Emergency Powers granted to the City Manager through the Proclamation of Local Emergency. It is effective from 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, November 4, until it is extended, rescinded or amended in writing by the Health Officer. 

For the latest information on COVID-19, with details on all that the City of Long Beach is doing to keep our residents safe, visit longbeach.gov/COVID19 and follow @LongBeachCity and @LBHealthDept on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. People may also visit longbeach.gov/COVID19data for up-to-date information regarding cases and vaccines in Long Beach.