Following new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, the St. Joseph County Health Officer Dr. Robert Einterz has rescinded the county's public health order, which required face masks in most enclosed public spaces.
Einterz still urges anyone who hasn't been vaccinated or acquired immunity to take all necessary precautions.
(Read more in the health department's release below.)
St. Joseph County- Per CDC recommendations issued today, fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. In general, people are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine; or, two weeks after a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.
Effective immediately, I am rescinding St. Joseph County Public Health Order 1 – 2021 which required individuals in enclosed public spaces to wear face coverings in certain circumstances; and, I will recommend the County Council rescind the related ordinance.
Individuals who are not fully vaccinated or do not have acquired immunity should continue to take all appropriate precautions, including face coverings whenever distancing of six feet from other people cannot be ensured in an enclosed public space.
Vaccinations are the best way to protect oneself, one’s loved ones, and one’s neighbors from contracting and spreading the virus. I urge everyone who’s eligible to get vaccinated to prevent COVID-19 infection.
Sincerely,
Robert M. Einterz, M.D.
Health Officer
