California Moving Into Next Phase of Pandemic

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istock_112221_travelpandemic

California is moving into the next phase of the COVID pandemic. Governor Gavin Newsom is rolling out the state’s new “SMARTER” plan, which he says will be based on science and builds flexibility into state response actions.

“We are taking a more sensible and, I would argue, sustainable healthcare approach based on the lesson’s learned,” said Newsom.

The plan focuses on seven tenants, mapped out in the word SMARTER. “S” stands for “Shots,” focusing on increasing vaccinations and boosters.  “M’ stands for masks. Other plan components include greater awareness and attempts to fight disinformation about the virus.  Readiness, testing, and education are also included.  The education part is about keeping California’s schools open and kids learning in-person. And the final “R” stands for RX, or treatments to better help those who do become infected.