July 30, 2021
Media Contact: Cat Long, RHHDpr@vdh.virginia.gov, 804-363-0933
RHHD RECOMMENDS MASK WEARING IN INDOOR GATHERING PLACES
RICHMOND, VA – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts now recommend everyone wear a mask indoors while around others who are not a part of their household, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Following new data that suggest COVID-19 vaccines might not prevent a vaccinated person from spreading COVID-19 caused by the Delta variant, the CDC now recommends areas with high or substantial COVID-19 community transmission wear masks indoors. Both Richmond City and Henrico County are experiencing substantial community transmission.
This local recommendation will remain in effect until otherwise notified, even if community transmission dips to moderate or low levels. RHHD’s clinical and epidemiological experts will consider community transmission, cases, hospitalizations, deaths, and vaccination data -as well as federal and state laws and guidelines- to change the universal mask recommendation.
“We believe that this recommendation will make it easier to consistently follow CDC guidance,” explains Dr. Viray, Deputy Director of Richmond and Henrico Health Districts. “Folks can just know to grab a mask when heading out the door without having to look up community transmission on public health dashboards.”
The COVID-19 vaccine continues to be the best way to protect yourself from the serious effects of COVID-19, inclusive of illness caused by the Delta variant. COVID-19 vaccines still prevent the transmission of many existing variants, as well as the development of new variants.
“I want to highlight the safety and efficacy of all the COVID-19 vaccines currently available,” says Amy Popovich, Nurse Manager at RHHD. “We have this incredible resource widely available that will help us end the pandemic. If you’re still unsure about the vaccine, please give us a call and ask us your questions.”
For information on COVID-19 vaccine opportunities in the Richmond and Henrico area, visit vax.rchd.com or call 804-205-3501.