Washington DC, Strict on Quarantine, Also Lifts Mask Mandate and Vaccine Proof Requirement

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] As the United States prepares to coexist with COVID-19, the capital Washington DC has also joined the movement to lift mask mandates. Even Washington DC, known for its stringent quarantine measures within the US, has eased its regulations.

Muriel Bowser, Mayor of Washington DC, announced on the 14th (local time) that due to the sharp decline in Omicron variant infections, the requirement to present proof of vaccination when entering businesses such as restaurants and bars will be lifted starting from the 15th. The mask mandate within business establishments will also be lifted from the 1st of next month.

Washington DC has recently seen a significant decrease in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations. According to The Washington Post, compared to the peak of Omicron infections, current infections and hospitalizations have decreased by 90% and 95%, respectively.

Mayor Bowser stated, "COVID-19 is no longer as deadly as before, but vaccination and booster shots cannot be emphasized enough."

However, Washington DC will continue to enforce mask mandates within schools. The mask mandate on public transportation will also be maintained.

Mayor Bowser said, "Decisions on broader easing of regulations will be announced next month."

Recently, several state governments in the US that have implemented relatively strict quarantine rules, such as New York, New Jersey, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Oregon, and Pennsylvania, have been easing their quarantine measures one after another.

However, the federal government maintains that regulations must be followed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends indoor mask-wearing in areas with high transmission rates. The White House is also still cautious about easing regulations.