Ohio lifting mask mandate to match CDC guidelines

Gov. Mike DeWine Friday afternoon announced his intention to change Ohio's mask order to match Centers for Disease Control guidelines. "Ohio will be amending our remaining health orders to comply with the new CDC guidance, which says that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance," he said in a statement. "The CDC still recommends everyone wear masks when they are in a healthcare setting, when they are travelling on public transportation, including airplanes, and when they are in a business or employer that chooses to require masks. Our order will be amended to reflect these recommendations, as well," he said in the statement. "Basically, it'll say if you're not vaccinated, you should still be masked," said Seneca County Health Commissioner Anne Goon. "If you're vaccinated you can take them off." She noted the health order had not yet been signed Friday afternoon. Goon said the modified order means people who are not vaccinated will have less protection as people stop wearing masks and social distancing. "That's the scary piece," she said. "When you go into any setting there's no way of knowing if somebody is or isn't vaccinated." She said the virus remains a threat. "Just because the restrictions are lifted doesn't mean COVID has gone away," she said. "People who aren't vaccinated still are at significant risk." Goon said pandemic health orders that remain are those related to nursing homes and assisted living facilities, which have federal safety protocols, and data collection related to the pandemic. In his statement, DeWine said people should remember that children younger than 12 can not yet get vaccinated. "I'm pleased that we will be able to start doing many things that we all had to stop doing because of the pandemic," Goon said. "This is possible because 1) we have three safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, 2) many Ohioans — especially those at highest risk — have begun or completed the steps to be fully vaccinated and protected from the virus, and 3) the spread of COVID-19 is slowing down as a result. "We all welcome the opportunity for life to return to normal — to be with our families, eat out, go to ball games, county fairs and local festivals," she said. Goon said the health department will continue to do its part to end the pandemic. "We will protect residents' health by providing COVID-19 vaccinations," she said. "We will promote actions that we each can take to keep ourselves safe. And when cases do occur, we will help these individuals protect their families and friends." She said the health department has free antigen tests people can use until they are fully vaccinated or if they do not intend to be vaccinated. The at-home test is meant to be taken with a telehealth proctor. She said the tests come in boxes of six and don't expire until Sept. 1. People who have COVID symptoms can test themselves and get results that are useful for notifying employers, proving results before travel or similar needs. "If you have symptoms, you can figure out quickly if you have it," she said. Anyone who tests positive should stay away from vulnerable populations. Goon encouraged people ages 12 and older to get vaccinated. To make an appointment to receive the vaccine, visit the state website, https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. To book by phone, call (833) 4-ASK-ODH (833-427-5634). In some cases, she said walk-ins may be accepted. The health department, 71 S. Washington St., is hosting vaccine clinics 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays, May 19, May 26 and June 2. Pfizer vaccines are available for youths ages 12-17. In addition, Moderna and Janssen vaccines are available for adults 18 and older. Take along a vaccine record if receiving a second shot. Wear a short sleeve shirt. Additional vaccine providers in Seneca County include Tiffin Community Health Center, Walmart pharmacy and Kroger pharmacies in Tiffin and Fostoria. Mercy Health — Tiffin also is a provider through the hospital's outpatient services. "Regardless of the new CDC guidance, this fact remains clear: The most powerful thing anyone can do to end this pandemic is to get vaccinated," DeWine said. Health Commissioner Anne Goon said the main question being asked right now is, "What should we do now, given this week's state and CDC announcements?" The answer: "If you're fully vaccinated, you can ditch your mask! If you're not vaccinated yet, keep wearing a mask to protect yourself and others and get vaccinated ASAP."