We spoke to Berkeley and Alameda County health officials about testing, masking, boosters and other advice for a safe holiday gathering.
COVID-19 vaccine
Posted inSchools
What to expect from BUSD’s COVID-19 policies this school year
The new school year brings looser COVID-19 restrictions, with less testing and more field trips and classroom visitors.
Posted inCity
Berkeley’s COVID-19 death rate is among the lowest in California
People who are elderly and Black make up a disproportionate share of Berkeley’s 62 COVID-19 deaths.
Posted inSchools
BUSD puts staff vaccine mandate on hold, rescinds student vax-or-test rule
Reversing course, the Berkeley school board rescinded a vaccine-or-test policy for students and put a vaccine mandate for employees on hold at its Wednesday meeting.
Posted inCity
Yes, it’s a surge: Wastewater tests reveal high level of COVID-19 in East Bay
Health experts say positive cases are underreported, but high vaccination rates have meant fewer hospitalizations and deaths.
Posted inCity
Berkeley is analyzing sewage data to track COVID-19 as response shifts in third year of pandemic
As self-testing becomes more common, the Berkeley health officer said the data is a useful tool in monitoring COVID-19 in the general population.
Posted inSchools
Questions of COVID safety still occupy Berkeley parents
Parents shared thoughts on vaccination and testing as the school board decided whether to lobby the state legislature over two bills.
Posted inCity
Berkeley to end vaccination requirement for indoor dining, gyms
The requirement that restaurants and other businesses check vaccination status ends Friday.
Posted inSchools
Berkeley schools to lift outdoor mask rule Feb. 28, require staff vaccines April 29
The school district could replace as many as 150 staff members by the start of next year, if they don’t get shots by the district’s deadline.
Posted inCity
Berkeley’s mask mandate ends, but many keep their face coverings on
While some are eager to get back to daily life without a face covering, we found masks are still the norm throughout much of Berkeley.
Posted inCity
Berkeley, Alameda County will join state in lifting mask mandate Feb. 16
Businesses can still require customers to mask up, and health officials cautioned that face coverings are “strongly recommended.”
Posted inSchools
Berkeley school board considers lifting some COVID restrictions as omicron surge recedes
School board directors discussed lifting outdoor mask mandates and restrictions on field trips. Plus, they discussed a vaccine mandate for staff.