Virus surges with over 230 new cases in Shafter

The city has seen the number of new cases of covid-19 increase last week, despite campaigns to slow the spread.

Last week, there were 237 new cases, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 2,698 since the start of the outbreak.

Of those cases, there have been over 800 cases confirmed as recoveries and over 500 cases assumed recovered.

Shafter has had a face covering campaign in place for over two months now, with the aim to slow the number of cases in the city. As people are wearing masks in growing numbers, the virus has still maintained its grip on the city.

Restaurants are offering take-out and delivery options, as well as outside dining. Hair salons and barber shops have stayed open during this last move to the purple tier, with safety guidelines in place. All of the supermarkets and stores in town have been enforcing the state-recommended policy of all customers and workers wearing face coverings.

Customers at the city buildings can pay utility bills and other transactions through a walk-up window located in the alley at the back of the city building.

Residents who need to see the city manager, building staff, or Public Works are seen by appointment only.

Shafter Animal Control have opened their doors to the public, with residents required to wear masks in the building, as well as practicing social distancing as recommended by the state. Adoptions are also being offered now as well. According to staff at the Shafter Animal Control office, they have no available dogs at this time for adoption.

Dial-a-Ride services have not started up again, following the rest of Kern County, which has halted the services until further notice.