Solano County Public Health, April 8, 2020

SOLANO COUNTY – Solano County Public Health reminds the public that the Shelter at Home Health Order prohibits gatherings and directs individuals to stay home except for essential activities until April 30, 2020 to protect individuals from the possible transmission of COVID-19. Unfortunately, this Order impacts religious events that are underway throughout the month.

“We genuinely empathize with those who are unable to practice their religious traditions and celebrations during this challenging time,” said Dr. Bela Matyas, Solano County Health Officer. “However, to protect the health of our community members, the health order does not allow for gatherings outside of one’s immediate household. These measures, while disruptive, aim to curb the growing number of cases resulting from community spread, and to limit opportunities for people to spread COVID-19 to others unknowingly.”

The Health Order impacts observances where gatherings usually take place, including Holy Week and Easter, Passover, Orthodox Easter, Ramadan and other religious practices. Faith-based leaders and religious organizations are urged to close in-person services and not bring large groups of people together while the Health Order is in force.

It is important to emphasize that suspension of in-person gatherings is not a suspension of worship. There are many ways that religious practices can still be observed, including livestreaming or watching recordings online.

In addition, Solano Public Health reminds the public that avoiding non-essential travel and activities, washing hands frequently, and placing 6-feet distance between others when outside are ways to curb the spread of coronavirus in our community. For more information on COVID-19, visit www.solanocounty.com/covid19.  For questions about coronavirus, call the Coronavirus Warmline at 707-784-8988 or email covid19@solanocounty.com.   Follow Solano County Public Health on Facebook @SolanoCountyPH and www.Facebook.com/SolanoCountyPH.