CDC Updates Masking Guidance for Fully Vaccinated Persons, California Still Assessing

On Thursday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that fully vaccinated adults against COVID-19 can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. The move by the CDC represents a significant milestone in the COVID-19 pandemic and follows a previous announcement by the CDC relaxing face covering guidance in outdoor settings.

Notably, the CDC’s updated guidance does not apply to health care settings, and the CDC still requires individuals to wear masks when using public transportation, including buses, trains, and airplanes.

At the time of this posting, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to review the CDC’s updated guidance. Additional information is anticipated from the state over the coming days.

The CDC’s updated face covering guidance for fully vaccinated persons is available here.