May 18, 2021 2:00 p.m.

On Tuesday, the Oregon Health Authority released guidance about mask and physical distancing requirements for individuals fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

A release from OHA said people who are fully vaccinated will no longer need to wear a mask indoors, in most public settings where vaccination status is checked. In public settings where vaccination status is not checked, masks will still be required. OHA said that businesses and venue operators remain free to establish their own, more restrictive policies regarding mask usage.

OHA said mask requirements no longer apply to anyone who is outdoors. However, OHA recommends that individuals continue to wear a mask or face covering in crowded areas and large gatherings and to maintain physical distance as much as possible. OHA urges vaccinated individuals and those at risk for complications to wear masks in these settings.

OHA Director Patrick Allen said “Masks continue to save lives and protect people who are not vaccinated. However last week’s announcement from the CDC emphasizes that safe and effective vaccines are the very best way to protect people from getting and spreading COVID-19”. Allen said that’s why it’s safer for life to look more like normal for people who are fully vaccinated.

The new Oregon guidelines say:

*Individuals in Oregon are no longer required to wear a face mask or physically distance, whether indoors or outdoors, two weeks after their final COVID-19 vaccination dose.

*Fully vaccinated people are required to continue wearing a mask and observe physical distancing on public transportation and in schools, hospitals and clinics, homeless shelters, youth and adult correctional facilities and long-term care facilities.

*Businesses, employers or faith institutions can choose to no longer require masks and physical distancing for fully vaccinated individuals or continue to require masks and physical distancing in their locations for all individuals regardless of vaccination status.

*If a business, employer or faith institution chooses to no longer require masks and physical distancing, they must require visitors to show proof of vaccination and review the proof of vaccination.

A link to the updated guidance is posted: https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2288K.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery