CDC - Washington State - King County -- To Mask or Not?
What are you ready to do? P.S. No 'mask shaming,' please
Just when you thought it was clear when to mask up or not, we're not quite there yet. If you're in most places in Washington State, and you've been fully vaccinated, here's the latest from Governor Jay Inslee's proclamation clarifying how mask requirements will be enforced in Washington going forward. Washington businesses now have several options for dealing with mask-less customers:
Use the "honor system" assuming that customers without masks are fully vaccinated. Alternatively, they can demand proof of vaccination before allowing mask-less customers to enter. Or, continue to require that all customers wear facial coverings at all times.
AND, if you're heading indoors in King County, here's the latest this week:
With local COVID-19 case and hospitalization rates decreasing but still at elevated levels, King County Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin issued an updated Directive strongly urging all residents, fully vaccinated or not, to continue wearing face masks in public indoor settings. Last week, the CDC announced new guidance that people who are fully vaccinated no longer need to wear masks for most activities. While the Washington State DOH announced guidelines consistent with the CDC, both CDC and DOH highlight that mask policies should take into account local COVID-19 circumstances and requirements.
"Mask shaming" is not taking into account that some people are just more comfortable continuing to wear their masks, no matter if they're fully vaccinated or not. They may be immune compromised, they may have a cold, or they may just feel better with that extra layer for now. So, let's all give our mask-wearing friends a little room to breathe. =)
Did You Know? Many NNN Volunteers continue to wear masks while helping our Members. It's all about reducing risks to others! |