Updated 4 p.m.
Sacramento County reported four new COVID-19 deaths and 67 new cases Wednesday, marking the highest one-day jump in cases in more than two months.
The county has recorded 1,892 cases and 67 deaths from the coronavirus. The new case total marks the third largest one-day increase since the pandemic began. The county reported 90 new cases between March 31 and April 1, and 77 new cases between April 13 and 14.
It’s also the highest number of new deaths reported since early May.
Along with a recent spike in hospitalizations, many of the new cases have been traced back to private social gatherings, including birthday parties and a funeral. County Health Services Director Peter Beilenson said there have been some cases linked to recent racial justice protests, though the number has been lower than expected.
“Indoor gatherings make six-foot social distancing very difficult, and without the use of face coverings, are one of the most common ways to spread COVID-19,” said county spokeswoman Janna Haynes.
In-home gatherings without social distancing are still prohibited under state and county health orders.
Ahead of Father’s Day this weekend, Yolo County also sent out a reminder of current health guidelines. The county has recorded 40 new cases over the past week, which officials also attribute in part to private gatherings without social distancing.
Sacramento County is encouraging anyone who has gathered with people outside their household — whether during a protest, graduation or other event — get tested at a free test site or through a healthcare provider.
Sacramento County is one of 52 counties with state approval to open additional businesses including gyms, bars and restaurants. Beginning Friday, counties with approved “regional variance” will also be allowed to reopen nail salons, tattoo shops and other personal service businesses.
As California moves to reopen and as testing is more available, public officials have said they expect increased cases but have underscored the importance of keeping a distance and wearing a face covering while in public in order to prevent the disease from spreading further.
On Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom defended the move to reopen while urging caution as people return to public life.
“We have to recognize you can't be in a permanent state where people are locked away for months and months and months and months on end” without exacerbating poverty, mental health and other issues, he said.
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