Only small gatherings encouraged this Christmas

The city is seeing an increase in confirmed cases of covid-19, despite a face covering campaign and businesses adhering to safety guideline designed to stall the spread of the virus.

City buildings have been closed to the public, with customers being serviced through a window at the back of the city building, as well as serving customers by appointment only that require an in-person interaction.

There have been a total of 2,017 confirmed cases in Shafter, with almost 800 of those cases confirmed recoveries. There were 185 new cases confirmed last week.

With the arrival of the vaccine in Kern County, it is hoped that the numbers will begin to decrease.

Local restaurants have been offering take-out services, as well as delivery options for those offering it. Supermarkets and gas stations remain open with them requiring all customers and employees to wear face coverings.

With the holidays approaching, the city is encouraging residents to refrain from gathering in large groups, even within the same families.

Some residents are planning low-key celebrations this Christmas, with small get togethers at home.

"We are not going out anywhere for Christmas," said Raul Magana, who is planning on a small gathering at his house, including his two children and three grandchildren. "We have to be very careful. I can't afford to get sick and be off work. I also have to worry about my wife, who already has respiratory problems. She has to watch where she goes and make sure she is wearing a mask."

It is also not advisable for families to go to parks for large gatherings this holiday, encouraging residents to keep contact to a minimum.