Federal officials on Thursday announced a sweeping relaxation of face mask guidelines, including allowing fully vaccinated people to safely stop wearing masks in most places.
âAnyone who is fully vaccinated can participate in indoor and outdoor activities, large or small, without wearing a mask or physical distancing,â Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky said during a White House briefing. âIf you are fully vaccinated, you can start doing the things you have stopped doing because of the pandemic.â
Calling it an âexciting and powerful moment,â Walensky said the decision was made based on numerous reports and literature that have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines.