PA Changes Mask-Wearing Rules

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania has updated its mask-wearing rules to align with the new recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Department of Health Acting Secretary Alison Beam confirmed that Pennsylvanians who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear a mask outdoors "in some situations."

She noted those who are not vaccinated will still need to wear a mask in most situations, and those who are fully vaccinated should still wear a mask in crowded areas.

The new CDC guidance issued Tuesday sheds new light on what vaccinated people can safely do. Activities deemed safe include visiting with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing.

Vaccinated people can safely visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing, the CDC said.

It is also safe for vaccinated people to travel; testing and quarantining after travel is not necessary.

Vaccinated people don't need to test following a known exposure, if asymptomatic, with some exceptions for specific settings.

Fully vaccinated people should continue to wear a mask in indoor public settings.

Large indoor gatherings should still be avoided, even for those who are vaccinated, the CDC said.

“Today’s announcement underscores the importance of getting vaccinated to protect yourself from COVID-19,” said Acting Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson. “It is important that people who have compromised immune systems consult with their physician as to whether they may need to continue to wear a mask in some of these situations.”