As of May 28, 2021, Executive Order 79 is in effect which terminates Seventh Amended Number Seventy-Two removing all previous restrictions.
However, all unvaccinated individuals in the Commonwealth aged five and older should cover their mouth and nose with a mask in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.
MASK GUIDANCE
The Health Department does not issue mandates or regulations regarding the wearing of masks. Our role is to provide guidance and recommendations on executive orders from the Governor’s office. Restaurant owners and operators are responsible for managing their facilities so that the public is kept safe. This includes providing clear messaging to patrons about masks.
While Individuals who are fully vaccinated may remove their mask in most settings, individuals who are not fully vaccinated should continue to mask and remain physically distanced in most settings. Please note, there are a number of situations when unvaccinated people don’t have to wear a mask including while actively eating or drinking.
The CDC continues to recommend universal masking (regardless of vaccination status) in schools, child care settings, healthcare settings, homeless shelters, and correctional facilities. Regardless of vaccination status, individuals must also continue to wear a mask while accessing public transportation, per a federal requirement. See more information about mask recommendations/requirements.
BEST PRACTICES
Although capacity limits, distancing, and other business requirements are fully lifted, businesses and other establishments are encouraged to follow Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and CDC recommendations and best practices for masking, distancing, handwashing, cleaning, symptom screening, ventilation, etc. New guidance to reflect these changes available from VDH, see: General Recommendations for Businesses.
For more detailed prevention and mitigation guidance for specific sectors (such as schools, sports, camps, pools, etc.), continue to refer to VDH Website for Schools, Workplaces, and Communities and also CDC guidance.
Additional requirements for employees and employers can be found in the Department of Labor and Industry’s Final Permanent Standard for Infectious Disease Prevention of the SARS- CoV-2 Virus that Causes COVID-19 and FAQs.
RESOURCES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NOT VACCINATED
Please see how to get a vaccine. COVID-19 vaccine is readily available and free for everyone 12 years and older.
Use your best judgment based on the occupancy and capacity of the facility, and refer to this information from the CDC for guidance.
Before you visit a restaurant or bar, see this COVID-19 guidance for from the CDC.
