The CDC Lifts Masks and Social Distancing Requirements for Fully Vaccinated People

Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated and slackened its COVID-19 guidelines, allowing people fully vaccinated against Covid-19 to go without masks, indoors and outdoors.

Also, social distancing is not required except under specific circumstances.

“You can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance,” the CDC said.

Under CDC’s updated mask guidance, travel within the U.S. does not require COVID-19 testing before or after travel or self-quarantine for fully vaccinated people. However, the CDC stated that close attention should be before traveling outside the United States.

Examples of certain circumstances in which social distancing and COVID-19 testing would be be required are tied to known and potential exposure.

“If you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others or get tested unless you have symptoms,” the CDC advised. “However, if you live or work in a correctional or detention facility or a homeless shelter and are around someone who has COVID-19, you should still get tested, even if you don’t have symptoms.”

The White House tweeted about guidance for fully vaccinated people, while announcing that fully vaccinated people can stop wearing masks in most settings. Additionally, individuals were advised to visit the CDC’s website to find out where to get vaccinated. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky also spoke in a video message about the update.

“We have all longed for this moment when we can get back to some sense of normalcy. Based on the continuing downward trajectory of cases, the scientific data on the performance of our vaccines, and our understanding of how the virus spreads, that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated,” Walensky said.

Dr. Leana Wen, former Baltimore Health Commissioner, expressed concern for the honor system that could impact people who cannot get vaccinated.

At a White House press briefing yesterday, Andy Slavitt, White House senior advisor for the COVID-19 response, said that individuals 12 through 15 years old are now eligible for the Pfizer vaccine.