May 17, 2021 - Health

New York to lift mask mandate for vaccinated people

Fadel Allassan

a photo of Cuomo removing a mask. — Photo: Shannon Stapleton-Pool/Getty Images

New York will lift its mask mandate for vaccinated people on Wednesday, aligning with CDC guidance announced last week, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said at a press conference.

Why it matters: The announcement marks a significant milestone for the state, which was one of the first to issue a broad mask mandate in April 2020 when it was facing one of the worst coronavirus outbreaks in the world.

Yes, but: Masks will still be required on public transit and in nursing homes, homeless shelters, jails, schools, and health care facilities. Private businesses and venues can add additional requirements if they choose to.

Driving the news: Cuomo also announced the New York City Marathon will return in November, with a field of runners reduced from 55,000 to about 33,000, according to the New York Times.

By the numbers: New York is seeing the lowest number of hospitalizations and lowest number of patients in the intensive care unit since November.

The state on Monday also reported its lowest number for single-day deaths (11) since Oct. 11.
Cuomo on Saturday announced that more than half of New York adults have been vaccinated for COVID-19.

Go deeper: CDC mask guidance sparks confusion, questions

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New York to lift mask mandate for vaccinated people

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