Mask mandates have been prolonged to assist hold the brand new COVID variant from spreading.
Sarah Tew/CNET
With the omicron variant now detected in 39 states in the US, federal masks mandates have been prolonged till March 18 in an effort to curb the unfold, President Joe Biden recently announced. The federal mandate was initially purported to expire on Jan. 18.
The federal requirement to put on a masks over the nostril and mouth applies to individuals using the bus, practice and airplanes The extension is pushed by a priority that the nation may quickly be combating two COVID-19 variants without delay. The extremely contagious delta variant remains to be circling the nation, whereas the brand new omicron variant has circumstances rising quickly.
Last week, a statewide mask mandate for California was reinstated for indoor public locations — efficient Wednesday — and can final not less than a month. California joins seven different states (Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon and Washington) and Puerto Rico in requiring most individuals to put on masks indoors no matter vaccination standing. Connecticut’s indoor masks mandate solely applies to the unvaccinated.
The World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention proceed to suggest everybody put on a face masks in crowded areas, no matter vaccination standing. While scientists are testing the results of omicron on present vaccines, it is attainable for individuals with breakthrough infections to unfold any COVID-19 variant. Although the CDC believes vaccinated individuals could also be contagious for shorter periods of time, they will and do contribute to new circumstances, particularly for people who find themselves asymptomatic and will not be conscious they’re contaminated.
Both the WHO and CDC agree that individuals who aren’t vaccinated ought to proceed to put on face masks as a result of they account for almost all of COVID-19 circumstances and deaths all over the world. As omicron spans the globe, scientists agree that anybody eligible for a booster shot should get one (here’s how to quickly make an appointment). We proceed to replace this story as new info involves gentle.
Here’s the newest on masks mandates and tighter restrictions
The Biden administration prolonged its masks mandates for these touring by trains, buses and airplanes on Dec. 2 resulting from issues across the new omicron variant. And whereas the US has travel bans to forestall the brand new variant from spreading, omicron has already made its method into not less than 39 states.
Other international locations have additionally begun tightening COVID-19 restrictions. For occasion, Germany recently announced a lockdown for individuals who are unvaccinated. Some states within the US have additionally tightened restrictions, requiring proof of full vaccination to enter companies.
Which states have masks mandates?
The following states require most people to wear masks whereas in an indoor public setting.
- California
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Washington
The territory of Puerto Rico additionally requires masks for everybody indoors, whereas Connecticut requires masks indoors just for unvaccinated individuals.
Why are coronavirus variants like omicron and delta severe?
A brand new research exhibits omicron is four times more transmissible than the delta variant, which was thought of probably the most contagious of the variants recognized to this point, according to the WHO, however omicron exams are nonetheless underway and steering may change. It’s too early to inform how harmful the omicron variant is at the moment, although signs to this point seem gentle. It is known to have more mutations than the delta variant.
Both variants are spreading amongst each the vaccinated and unvaccinated inhabitants, although hospitalizations, severe sickness and loss of life are much less prone to happen in those that are absolutely vaccinated. Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky, director of the CDC, on Friday said practically 80% of the confirmed omicron circumstances within the US are absolutely vaccinated, with a few third additionally having acquired a booster.
CDC steering: Fully vaccinated ought to proceed carrying masks in some areas
The present CDC guidance for mask wearing says that everybody age 2 years and older, vaccinated and unvaccinated, ought to proceed carrying masks indoors when in public locations, particularly if in a excessive COVID-19 transmission space, to assist forestall spreading the illness to others.
Earlier this yr, the rules stated those that are absolutely vaccinated can “resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing” besides the place required, akin to in planes and companies. But that steering rapidly modified over the summer season when it was discovered the delta variant may cause breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals.

Some international locations are returning to lockdowns to curb the unfold.
Sarah Tew/CNET
What is the WHO’s place on masks carrying?
Wearing a masks persistently continues to be necessary, even for people who find themselves vaccinated, a WHO official said during a press briefing. “People cannot feel safe just because they had the two doses. They still need to protect themselves.”
Wearing masks in public locations is crucial to maintain individuals from inhaling particles that may trigger them to turn out to be sick, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, an American infectious illness epidemiologist, stated throughout the identical briefing.
While the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are displaying robust protection against variants, breakthrough infections can nonetheless happen.
For extra info, here is what it’s worthwhile to find out about “long COVID” and how it’s treated. Also, learn up on these COVID-19 vaccine side effects and important dos and don’ts of getting your COVID-19 vaccine.
The info contained on this article is for instructional and informational functions solely and isn’t meant as well being or medical recommendation. Always seek the advice of a doctor or different certified well being supplier relating to any questions you will have a few medical situation or well being aims.
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