CDC is suggesting people wear masks in areas of high transmissibility of Covid-19 as numbers continue to rise across the U.S. with 80% accounting for the delta variant. (Port City Daily/File)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggested Tuesday that the vaccinated population begin wearing masks indoors, especially in areas with increased Covid-19 cases and high transmissibility. The organization also suggested K-12 school kids, teachers, administration, and faculty and staff wear masks indoors this fall, regardless of vaccination.
The decision comes as the delta variant accounts for over 80% of all Covid-19 cases in the U.S. The variant is two-and-a-half times more contagious, even for ages 50 and younger, according to Yale Medicine, and infects at a faster rate. The CDC says, though rare, its strength also puts vaccinated people at risk for breakthrough cases — those who contract the virus even after being vaccinated. As well, the variant could increase the chances of vaccinated individuals being carriers and transmitting Covid-19 unknowingly, even without symptoms.