More than 34,000 Stark County residents have received at least the first jab of the COVID-19 vaccine.
But they shouldn't throw away those masks quite yet. Local health departments are encouraging vaccinated folks to continue practicing social distancing, washing their hands, wearing a mask, and avoiding crowds until more people have a chance to get the shot.
"The vaccine is not a free pass," said Chris Cugini, communication specialist with the Stark County Health Department.
Even though the county's latest COVID-19 data is promising, this is still a critical time, he said.
"We realize how difficult this has been for so many people, but we've all made those sacrifices, and we don't want to ruin those sacrifices we've made," he added.