Local health department announces new mask guidance
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ALPENA, Mich. — District Health Department No. 4 has announced new mask guidance. The announcement comes following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on Tuesday, July 27. The CDC issued new guidance on masking, primarily because of the impact of the Delta variant.
The health department said it continues to support guidance issued by the CDC, MIOSHA and MDHHS, and will provide updates as they occur. The new recommendations are as follows:
- Individuals in areas of high or substantial transmission, should wear masks in public indoor spaces regardless of vaccination status.
- Regardless of transmission levels– Individuals in K-12 schools should wear mask indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Including students, teachers, staff, and visitors.
Current levels of community transmission in the DHD4 jurisdiction are:
- Alpena County, “Substantial”
- Cheboygan County, “Moderate”
- Montmorency County, “Low”
- Presque Isle County, “Low”
Residents can follow community transmission levels via the CDC Data Tracker found at this link: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view.
Research and case trends suggest the Delta variant differs from past versions of the virus – it is much more contagious. Statewide, while some vaccinated individuals have contracted Delta, known as a breakthrough case, overall, vaccinated individuals represent a very small fraction of the transmission occurring nationally. Additionally, virtually all new hospitalizations and deaths are among unvaccinated individuals. Evidence continues to show COVID-19 vaccination is safe, effective & cost free. For more information on CDC fully vaccinated guidance visit, https://bit.ly/3rD1Edv
Residents can call 1-800-221-0294 to schedule a vaccine appointment.
