WEST PALM BEACH – Palm Beach County continues to require everyone to wear face coverings in public spaces. Emergency Order 2020-31 has been extended through Jan. 20, 2021. The face covering requirement has been in effect since June 24, 2020. The order cites the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations that cloth face coverings help prevent people who have COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others and evidence that masks also help reduce the inhalation of virus-laden droplets by the wearer.

The order requires cloth masks that cover the wearer’s nose and mouth be worn in all businesses, establishments, and in public spaces. The order also required retail establishments and restaurants to post signage containing information regarding sanitization, social distancing, and facial covering requirements.

COVID-19 tests will be available at the Health Care District of PBC (HCD) C. L. Brumback Primary Care Clinic at Lakeside Medical Center, 39200 Hooker Hwy, Belle Glade, 33430, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. This is a walk-up site. Appointments are recommended. Testing is available for any age, with or without symptoms. Call 561-642-1000 for an appointment.

Some homebound testing is also available. Residents eligible include homebound elderly or individuals with disabilities who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and cannot leave their homes to access one of the drive-up or walk-up test collection sites. Residents who believe they are eligible for the in-home testing option should call 561-712-6400 for a pre-qualifying assessment. The testing line is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Palm Beach County has not yet announced plans for vaccinations.

Florida Health COVID-19 24 hour hotline number is 866-779-6121.