July 26, 2021

Puget Sound health officers recommend masking in indoor spaces where the vaccination status of others is unknown

Kitsap County Health Officer Dr. Gib Morrow joined health officers from seven other Washington counties to recommend masking and vaccination as the best strategies to fight the increasing spread of COVID-19, including the highly contagious Delta variant. 

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What prompted this recommendation?

COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are increasing in our region. The Delta variant, which spreads more easily and causes more severe illness, is circulating in Washington. The COVID-19 case rate for Kitsap County and percent of tests that are positive have doubled since July 15. 

Science has shown masking and vaccination are two of the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19, while allowing businesses and residents to carry on daily activities. Facial coverings are a low-cost, no-risk layer of protection that helps stop disease transmission, keeps our schools and businesses open, and makes our community a safer place for all.

Why are local health officers making this recommendation?

County health officers are responsible for providing their best advice and guidance for residents of their county. Based on the rising numbers and rapid increase of the Delta variant in Washington, our best advice to protect yourself, your family, and your community, is to get vaccinated and for everyone to wear a mask when in indoor public settings, such as stores, where the vaccination status of all present is unknown.

Is this a requirement?

This is not a mandate. It is a recommendation from Puget Sound health officers to keep our communities as safe as possible. There is no enforcement related to this recommendation. We encourage businesses and residents to follow this recommendation so we can curb the transmission of COVID-19 and help protect vulnerable community members.

What does this mean for businesses?

Businesses must comply with Washington state masking rules requiring masks for unvaccinated individuals in indoor public spaces. However, we are encouraging businesses to ask everyone to mask up inside to help protect workers and customers, particularly if they are unable to verify vaccination status for everyone who enters their establishment. This ensures easy verification that all unvaccinated patrons are masked in indoor settings.  

CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org