INDIANA — The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have issued new guidance in regards to wearing face masks in public spaces, based on new data. The CDC is recommending that individuals assess their risk in their community, and check with county levels of transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Currently, Marion County (Indianapolis) is at a Medium level.
At a medium level, the CDC recommends individuals talk to their health care provider about their need to wear a face mask and continue to take other precautions. They continue to recommend the vaccine and the booster, and that individuals who have symptoms get tested (at home tests or a rapid test). People may choose to mask at any time. People who have had symptoms of the virus, a positive test, or exposure to someone with the virus should wear a mask.
Hamilton and Hancock counties are at a low level, according to the CDC. At the low level, individuals may choose to be masked at any time. People who have had symptoms of COVID-19, a positive test, or exposure to someone with the virus should wear a mask.
Local mandates should be followed when applicable. In addition, businesses can set their own mask rules, and should be respected by patrons.
The Indiana Dept. of Health has not yet changed its guidelines for the state’s masking policies.
As of February 27, Indiana has recorded 21,922 deaths from March 16, 2020 to Feb. 24, 2022. Positivity rates have begun dropping since the peak of the surge in January, 2022. Hospitalization rates have also dropped significantly since January.
To check the CDC’s community levels, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html