Philly Drops Indoor Mask Mandate Except for Schools, Health Institutions and Public Transportation

Not long ago city officials ended the proof of vaccination for public spaces now they’re taking the next step and dropping the mask mandate. City official held talks Tuesday about dropping the city’s mask mandate and just announced that the mandate has been dropped effective immediately.

With the continued drop in Philly’s COVID cases, the city has decided to move into an “All Clear COVID Response Level.” In the “All Clear” phase, all COVID-19 mitigation efforts are lifted with the exception of masking in schools, health care institutions, congregate settings, and on public transportation.  In addition city buildings will require mask until March 7th. Masks will be optional for visitors and fully vaccinated staff. Unvaccinated staff will still be required to wear two masks while indoors and around others.

Although the city has loosened its restriction, officials also made it clear that the pandemic is not over. If the metrics continue to improve, city officials will consider dropping the mask mandate completely (which will include schools, health care institutions, congregate settings, and on public transportation.)

If COVID metrics continue to “move in the right direction,” the city plans to drop its school mask mandate on Wednesday, March 9, said James Garrow, a spokesperson for the city’s health department. The city would then implement a one-week mask requirement following spring break to avoid a post-break surge in cases.

In addition, health department advised those with a higher risk of severe illness, including those who are immunocompromised, to continue to wear masks.