All of New
Jersey's mask mandates remain in effect, at least for now, as the CDC releases
new guidance saying people who are fully vaccinated no longer have to wear
masks in most places.
The office of the governor
released the following statement, saying, "Gov. Murphy and the New Jersey Department of Health are
reviewing the new CDC guidance on masking requirements. We continue to move
forward in our efforts to vaccinate all willing and eligible individuals who
live, work, or study in New Jersey."
While it still remains to be
seen how this guidance will impact vaccinated New Jersey residents, the CDC
says it applies to most activities. Indoor, outdoor, large, small -- all can be
done without a mask or social distancing.
But even fully vaccinated
people are still being asked to wear a mask when traveling, or visiting certain
places such as hospitals.
While the restrictions are
being loosened, there is still a significant risk for people who aren't
vaccinated.
"The science is also
very clear about unvaccinated people,” says Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of
the CDC. “You remain at risk of mild or severe illness, of death, or of
spreading the disease to others. You should still mask, and you should get
vaccinated right away.”
It’s also worth noting the
guidance isn't necessarily permanent. Dr. Walensky says they could be changed
if case numbers were to get bad again.