Indoor mask requirement lifted . . . with health advice
Posted on Mar 29, 2022 in Capitol Connection, Featured, Main
Masks can still be an important tool indoors to mitigate COVID-19.
The latest sign that Hawai‘i is “learning to live with COVID” came when Governor Ige lifted the statewide indoor mask requirement at 11:59 p.m. March 25 when the emergency proclamation expired. But he and DOH officials are encouraging everyone to remain cautious since “we’re not out of the woods yet.” The governor said: “Together, we have reduced COVID-19 in Hawai‘i to the point where most of us will be safe without masks indoors. Right now, hospitalizations are trending down. Case counts are falling. We are better at treating people who are infected. Boosters are saving lives. And the CDC has rated the state’s COVID-19 community level as ‘low.’ However, the state will be ready to reinstitute the mask policy if COVID case numbers surge.”
State Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Char emphasized that masks are still an important tool in preventing transmission of COVID-19. “We strongly recommend people over age 65, people with compromised immune systems, people who aren’t vaccinated, and those who care for people at risk of severe illness still wear masks indoors. This is especially important in crowded settings.” Situations where masks are still recommended indoors include schools, hospitals and health care and long-term care facilities, shelters, correctional facilities and other congregate living complexes. “Masks should be considered by anyone who is indoors with people whose vaccination status is unknown.” Simple prevention practices that have worked in the past will keep us moving in the right direction, Char said. Look for details at https://hawaiicovid19.com/.