Brookline Health Officials Say Mask Mandate Will Continue

BROOKLINE, MA — The Brookline Department of Health and Human Services said Tuesday that Brookline’s indoor mask mandate will continue for the foreseeable future after Norfolk County was elevated from substantial to high levels of transmission.

The news comes after Brooklines public health team considered Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data around community transmission and recent increases in hospitalizations.

“Based on this data, Brookline DHHS believes a holistic prevention approach - masks, vaccination, booster shots, regular testing, improved ventilation in buildings, and quarantine of identified cases - remains in the best interest of the community,” said Brookline DHHS in a letter to the community.

“The department will continue to closely monitor data through the holiday season and determine what impact the cold weather and holiday gatherings have on case counts and hospitalizations,” it continued. “Brookline’s indoor mask mandate will remain in effect until public health metrics support lifting it.”

Residents who plan to gather for the holidays are encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the community. In addition, those attending parties or events should get tested for COVID-19 prior to doing so and hosts are urged to improve ventilation in gathering spaces by opening windows or utilizing HEPA air filters.

For updates on Brookline’s COVID-19 safety guidelines, click here.