Fully vaxxed Pennsylvanians can go mask-free, state health officials confirm

By: Cassie Miller - May 13, 2021 5:51 pm

Department of Health Acting Secretary Alison Beam speaks at a press conference. Harrisburg, PA – February 17, 2021

Pennsylvanians who are fully vaccinated can now resume indoor and outdoor activities without wearing a mask or practicing social distancing, state health officials confirmed Thursday.

The announcement comes just hours after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance on mask wearing.

CDC: You can ditch the mask in most places, indoors and out, if fully vaccinated

“Today’s guidance from the CDC affects only people who are fully vaccinated,” acting state Health Secretary Alison Beam said in a statement. “This is another incentive to get the vaccine that is now easily and conveniently available. Once 70 percent of Pennsylvanians over 18 are fully vaccinated, we can completely lift the masking order.”

The Wolf administration has said previously that it plans to lift statewide COVID-19 restrictions by Memorial Day on May 31, but said that the mandate requiring masks be worn will remain in place until 70 percent of Pennsylvanians 18 and older are vaccinated.

Wolf admin.: Pa. to lift COVID-19 restrictions by Memorial Day; mask order once 70 percent of adults are vaccinated

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Cassie Miller

A native Pennsylvanian, Cassie Miller worked for various publications across the Midstate before joining the team at the Pennsylvania Capital-Star. In her previous roles, she has covered everything from local sports to the financial services industry.