Yakima Times

Much like other counties, cities and states across the nation, the State of Washington is adjusting the way it approaches the COVID-19 pandemic to slow down a summer surge.

The state announced new rules for masks in an effort to lower its number of positive cases looking to duplicate success taking place in Yakima County, the Yakima Herald reported.

The amended order addresses people wearing masks in commons areas of certain establishments such as motels, dormitories, apartment buildings and assisted living facilities.

Masks will be required in areas such as lobbies, restrooms, elevators and hallways. Any area where people tend to gather is recommended, the Yakima Herald reported. Masks will also be required in outdoor non-public areas where six feet of distance cannot be maintained. The state is also warning about indoor gatherings.

“Congregating indoors in groups outside your household members — like birthday, anniversary, and retirement parties; book clubs; and just to socialize and hang out — is one of the worst things we can do right now,” the state Department of Health told the Yakima Herald.