MI Health Officials Pull Back On Masking In Indoor Public Places

MICHIGAN — State health officials have relaxed their recommendations on wearing face masks in indoor public settings, including in schools, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday.

Health officials signaled Wednesday that the state is entering a post-surge recovery, with COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continuing to decline in the state, and they recommend ending the statewide directive to wear face masks indoors.

"Individuals and families should assess their own risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission and make choices about when it makes sense to wear masks," health department Director Elizabeth Hertel said. “We want to make sure individuals and local communities have the information and tools they need to make choices for their families based on their personal situation and local community conditions."

However, health officials still encouraged school districts and organizations to consider local conditions and work with their local health department to determine mask policies for school districts, public meetings and large events. They also reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, and strongly encouraged everyone over the age of 5 to get the shots.

"This is good news for Michigan," Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. "While Michigan hasn't had statewide mask policies since last June, this updated guidance will underscore that we are getting back to normal. Let's keep working together to build on our momentum so we can keep our kids learning in person."