San Francisco City Notices: Winter Health Alerts and Transit Infrastructure Updates

Health Advisory: Statewide Influenza Surge and Mushroom Safety

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and local San Francisco health officials have issued a heightened alert regarding a significant increase in seasonal respiratory viruses. A newly identified influenza strain, H3N2 subclade K, is now circulating at high levels alongside respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus. Residents are advised that while flu activity has slightly declined from its December peak, hospital admissions remain elevated across the region. Health officials strongly recommend that all eligible individuals stay current with vaccinations and seek timely antiviral treatment to prevent severe illness.

Furthermore, an active public health warning remains in place regarding wild mushrooms. A recent outbreak of amatoxin poisoning, linked to the consumption of foraged wild mushrooms, has resulted in severe liver damage and multiple fatalities across the state. The public is urged to avoid picking or consuming any wild mushrooms found in local parks or wooded areas, as many toxic species closely resemble edible varieties. This advisory is critical as the damp winter season has led to increased mushroom growth in Northern California.

Transit Update: Muni Reroutes and Highway Rehabilitation

Commuters should prepare for ongoing service adjustments and infrastructure maintenance managed by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and Caltrans:

• Geary Boulevard Construction: Major sewer and water line replacement remains active between 32nd Avenue and Stanyan Street. As a result, several bus stops for the 38 Geary and 38R Geary Rapid lines have been temporarily relocated. This project is a vital part of the city's effort to upgrade aging utility lines and is scheduled for completion in 2027.
• I-80 and US-101 Bridge Work: The rehabilitation of the 71-year-old Central and Bayshore viaducts continues this week. While major overnight ramp closures were concentrated over the weekend, motorists should expect periodic lane restrictions on Westbound I-80 near the 4th and 8th Street ramps as crews finalize safety inspections and electrical work.
• Super Bowl Preparation: Ahead of the Super Bowl on February 8, the Bay Area Host Committee has begun issuing advisories for high-security zones. Starting this week, road closures and restricted pedestrian access will begin near major transit hubs and event venues, with significant impacts expected to intensify by Wednesday, January 28.

City Governance: Board of Supervisors and Public Commissions

Official public business continues this week with several high-profile meetings scheduled at City Hall and other municipal locations:

• Board of Supervisors Meeting: On Tuesday, January 27, the Board will discuss a proposed Charter Amendment that would transition the current consecutive term limits for the office of Mayor and the Board of Supervisors to lifetime term limits. If approved for the June 2026 election, it would represent a significant change in city governance. The Board will also review an updated 10-year capital expenditure plan seeking to reorganize funding for essential transportation projects through 2035.
• Human Rights Commission: A special retreat meeting for the Human Rights Commission is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, at 11:30 a.m. The meeting will be held at 49 South Van Ness Avenue, Room 132. Members of the public are invited to attend and must check in at the lobby security desk.