Illinois will move to a full reopening on Friday. At that time, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks, and all other venues. Mask requirements for vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals continue to align with CDC guidelines.
The state reaches this point as it records the lowest number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, the lowest test positivity rate, and more than 68% of Illinois residents age 18 and over and 88% of Illinois seniors have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
Governor JB Pritzker says the state is on track to meet President Biden’s goal of 70-percent of adults receiving the first dose of vaccination by July 4th.
IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike notes it is important to remember that we are still in a world pandemic and not everyone has the protection of one of the safest and most effective vaccines ever. Currently, there is not a vaccine authorized for children younger than 12 years, and some adults have chosen not to be vaccinated.
For these reasons, Ezike says it is important for unvaccinated people to continue to wear masks while in public and to socially distance themselves. The virus can continue to spread among unvaccinated individuals, which could lead to additional mutations and new, more virulent variants.
Consistent with CDC guidance, fully vaccinated and non-vaccinated persons are required to wear a face-covering in certain situations including (1) on public transportation, planes, buses, trains, and in transportation hubs such as airports and train and bus stations; (2) in congregate facilities such as correctional facilities and homeless shelters; and (3) in health care settings.
Individuals in schools and daycares must also continue to wear face coverings per guidance issued by the Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois Department of Public Health.
According to the CDC, it is critical that schools use and layer prevention strategies. Schools providing in-person instruction should prioritize two prevention strategies: 1) Universal and correct use of masks should be required; and 2) Physical distancing should be maximized to the greatest extent possible.
Businesses and communities can learn more about Phase 5 recommended public health practices by visiting IDPH’s website.
