The universal masking order was officially lifted today by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, though the department still continues to urge citizens to follow CDC guidelines for wearing a mask.
According to a press release, individuals who have not yet been vaccinated or are partially vaccinated are still encouraged to wear a mask when in public.
“The CDC requires individuals to wear a mask on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States, and in U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations,” read the release. “In addition, all individuals should still follow guidance at workplaces, local businesses, long-term care facilities, hospitals and other healthcare facilities, prisons, and shelters.”
Acting Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson discussed how COVID-19 vaccines are the best tools available to remain resilient against COVID-19.
“Pennsylvanians are aware of this and have been getting vaccinated,” she said. “ If you have not already been vaccinated, there are plenty of options available near you. Getting as many Pennsylvanians vaccinated as possible will offer more protection against the virus for everyone and is the fastest and safest way for us to return to our normal activities.”
Regarding vaccines, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced Friday that 75 percent of Pennsylvanians aged 18 and older have now received at least one COVID-19 vaccination, surpassing the goal set forth by President Joe Biden of 70 percent of adults receiving at least one dose of the vaccine by July 4. Pennsylvania currently ranks eighth in the nation for first dose vaccinations, and 59.5 percent of those aged 18 and older are fully vaccinated.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we must continue to inform all eligible Pennsylvanians about the effectiveness of the available vaccines and the importance of getting their second dose,” said Wolf. “They remain our best defense against this deadly virus and the potential threat of the delta variant. We each have the tools needed to make our communities safer, healthier places, by getting vaccinated, continuing to wear masks as needed and staying home if we are sick. It is our collective responsibility to remain resilient and do our part for our fellow Pennsylvanians.”
All Pennsylvanians age 12 and older are now eligible to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals can find a local COVID-19 vaccine provider by using the “Vaccine Finder” located at https://www.pa.gov/guides/get-vaccinated/#Step1FindaVaccineProvider.
