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Health Experts Alert on Potential Return of Mask Requirements in Autumn
Even though I have been fully vaccinated for several months, I continue to wear my mask in public spaces to prioritize community safety. Being someone who prefers staying at home, the mask doesn’t inconvenience me much. However, I have acquaintances and relatives who are relieved to no longer have to wear them. Regrettably, due to a combination of worsening circumstances, the mask-free phase for vaccinated individuals may prove to be temporary.
As the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus emerges as the predominant strain in the US, states with lower vaccination rates are witnessing renewed outbreaks and hospitals reaching full capacity once again. Countries with inadequate vaccination infrastructures have already reintroduced curfews and mandates in response to the spread of the Delta variant. Health experts from both the WHO and the US government are indicating the possibility of a similar scenario unfolding as we transition into the fall.
Lawrence Gostin, director of the World Health Organization’s Collaborating Center on National and Global Health Law, stated, “I anticipate that specific regions in the country may reinstate indoor mask mandates, enforce physical distancing, and impose occupancy limits in the upcoming months.”
“We are approaching a perilous autumn, with significant portions of the nation still unvaccinated, a resurging Delta variant, and individuals discarding their masks,” he emphasized.
Americans may need to wear masks indoors as the US heads towards a ‘perilous autumn’ with a rise in Delta Covid cases https://t.co/MaowvjSLDd pic.twitter.com/JpUcX2uj45
— MSN (@MSN) July 9, 2021
While vaccination rates are considerably high in major cities like those on the west coast and northeast, several states in the southeast and midwest still exhibit vaccination rates below 30%. Health advisors highlight that these states are most vulnerable to fresh COVID outbreaks and consequently, the reinstatement of mask mandates.
“Considering pandemic fatigue, it will be increasingly challenging to encourage a majority of Americans to adhere to guidance on mask usage and social distancing. When cases and hospitalizations start surging once more, likely not until fall or winter, persuading some individuals to take precautionary measures may become easier,” explained Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray, director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.
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