SALEM — In response to a large spike in cases and hospitalizations and new national guidance calling for masking measures to prevent the spread of the highly transmissible delta variant, the Oregon Health Authority is recommending universal mask use in public indoor settings, according to a press release.

“(The) reported sharp rise in cases and hospitalizations in Oregon are sobering reminders that the pandemic is not over, especially for Oregonians who remain unvaccinated,” said Dr. Dean Sidelinger, state epidemiologist and state health officer.

Sidelinger said the highly contagious delta variant has increased tenfold in the past two weeks in Oregon, and is now estimated to be associated with 80% of the new cases in Oregon.

OHA’s recommendation aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s new guidance issued Tuesday, July 27, that everyone, including fully vaccinated persons, wear a mask in public indoor settings. OHA’s recommendation applies statewide as cases have increased across the state in recent weeks due to the delta variant.