As you may know, California’s statewide stay-at-home order and curfew has been lifted. Nevertheless, Councilmember Larry Agran urges residents to avoid changing up their routines, if they can. “It is important that we remain vigilant against the virus. Though the capacity of our health care system has recovered somewhat, we are still fighting every day to contain this virus. As news and study of variants — their prevalence and implications for vaccines and prevention — continues to develop, I urge all residents of Irvine to stay home as much as possible, and to take the utmost precautions when you must leave the house.” That includes wearing a good quality mask, keeping essential errands as short as possible, staying six feet away from people outside your household, and frequently washing your hands. For the latest safety guidance, consult the CDC.

With respect to vaccinations, as it stands, it is unclear when Irvine can expect a mass-vaccination program in the City. The most recent attempt to confirm such a program at the Great Park was derailed this week when FivePoint objected over perceived traffic concerns and expressed their preference for another site altogether. As a result, the County has further delayed finalizing the licensing agreement that would have had the City readying a program at the Great Park for deployment as soon as vaccines are available. This is an evolving situation, so stay tuned for updates.