Masks still required for fully vaccinated people in health care settings and more.

CDC Mask Guidance

On May 13, Washington adopted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) masking guidance allowing individuals who have been fully vaccinated to no longer wear a mask in most settings. However, masks will still be required for all individuals in:

• Health care setting like hospitals, long-term care facilities, and doctor’s offices

• Correctional facilities

• Homeless shelters

• Schools

• When utilizing public transportation

For now, individuals who are not fully vaccinated need to continue to wear masks in public settings, observe social distancing, and take all other necessary precautions. Adoption of these revised requirements has been formalized in the updated Order of the Secretary of Health regarding face coverings statewide for fully vaccinated individuals. Local businesses may choose to adopt the CDC recommendation for patrons or continue to require masks while at their establishments. Mask requirements may also vary depending on federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, and workplace guidance.

The state is working diligently to update information that will provide businesses with additional clarification on the updated guidance. As this information is being developed, we can show our continued support to our local businesses by respecting their mask use policies.

Individuals are considered fully vaccinated:

• 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or

• 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.

Verification of vaccination can be asked by businesses, when attending events, traveling, or other locations. Valid proof of vaccination includes:

• CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card (received at the time of vaccination)

• Washington State Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination (can be obtained through MyIRmobile.com)

• Washington State Immunization Information System printout (all immunizations will appear on this record and can be obtained through NETCHD)

• Lifetime immunization record booklet

• Verified electronic medical record printout from medical provider.

The safest and fastest way to reduce transmission is for people to get vaccinated. Everyone age 12 and older is eligible and appointments are readily available in the tri-county area.

NEW Health is offering the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines at this time. Call to schedule at one of our clinics or visit the VACCINE LOCATOR for a location nearest you.

Chewelah Medical Clinic 509-935-8424 Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine available

Colville Medical Clinic 509-684-1440 Moderna vaccine only

Lake Spokane Medical Clinic 509-464-3627 Moderna vaccine only

HELP END THE PANDEMIC. GET VACCINATED. IT’S FREE!