ALBANY, NY — New York State officials say they will allow COVID-19-related mask-wearing requirements for staff, patients and guests in hospitals and other healthcare facilities will expire on Sunday.
Acting Health Commissioner Dr James McDonald said that although the pandemic is not over yet, “we are moving into a transitional phase.”
“When we do, and with vaccines, safe and effective treatments, etc., we can lift the state mask requirement in facilities,” McDonald said in a statement. health care.
The decision announced Thursday comes as governments continue to relax rules enacted during the most stressful days of the pandemic.
Earlier this week, New York City announced it would no longer require COVID-19 vaccinations for police, firefighters, teachers and other city employees.
The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations statewide has been steadily declining this year and is 2,176 as of Thursday.
Health officials advise hospitals, nursing homes, treatment centers and other facilities to enact their own mask-wearing rules following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control.
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