COVID Masking & Safety

On this page find information to support you in making informed decisions about masking & safety measures.

Masking

A person is still considered a close contact even if one or both people wore a mask when they were together.
COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at preventing symptoms, severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. However, it is possible to get and spread COVID-19 even if fully vaccinated, especially with more contagious variants of the virus. Masks help protect the wearer and help prevent people — including those without symptoms who don’t know they are sick — from spreading the virus to others.

*Fully vaccinated means two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine or the second dose of a two-dose vaccine.
Per CDC guidance, due to the transmissible nature of the COVID variants, masks are strongly encouraged for all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, in public, indoor settings. Regardless of vaccination status, individuals will need to wear a mask whenever required by an individual business.
Yes. Businesses can choose to continue to require face coverings for all customers, regardless of vaccination status. Customers should be respectful, courteous, and abide by all individual policies in place. Businesses have the right to refuse entry or service to any person who refuses to comply with their policies.
Per CDC guidance, any unvaccinated people over the age of two are strongly encouraged to take precautions, including wearing a well-fitted mask.
Yes. The recommendations and requirements for wearing a mask apply even if you had COVID-19. It is possible to get COVID-19 again.

The best method of reducing the chances of being impacted by COVID is to get a vaccine. CLICK HERE to find a provider near you.

Safety Measures to Protect Against COVID-19

Authorized COVID-19 vaccines can help protect you from COVID-19. You should get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can. Once you are fully vaccinated, you may be able to start doing some things that you had stopped doing because of the pandemic. As of December 9th 2021, everyone 16+ is recommended to get a Booster dose to increase protection and immunity against COVID and variants.
Everyone 2 years or older who is not fully vaccinated should wear a mask in indoor public places. In general, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings. In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated, to maximize protection and prevent possibly spreading COVID-19 to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.
Inside your home
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
Outside your home
Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus. Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from other people, especially if you are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Being in crowded places like restaurants, bars, fitness centers, or movie theaters puts you at higher risk for COVID-19. You also want to avoid indoor spaces that do not offer fresh air from the outdoors as much as possible. If indoors, bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors, if possible.
Testing can give you information about your risk of spreading COVID-19. You can choose from many different types of tests. Regardless of the test type you select, a positive test result means that you have an infection and should isolate and inform your close contacts to avoid spreading disease to others.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
If you are wearing a mask:
You can cough or sneeze into your mask. Put on a new, clean mask as soon as possible and wash your hands.
If you are not wearing a mask:
Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit. Throw used tissues in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.