May 22, 2021

ONA appreciates the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) clarification today regarding the use of masks and physical distancing for individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) recent recommendations left many confused. Today’s OHA’s guidance goes a long way towards eliminating that confusion.

It is crucial for Oregonians to recognize the majority of OHA’s new guidelines are only relevant for individuals who have been fully vaccinated.
ONA urges the use of masks, social distancing, hand washing and all other public health measures for those who have not been fully vaccinated, for individuals with comorbidities and for those at risk of serious complications from COVID-19. In addition, both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals are still required to wear a mask and to observe physical distancing on public transportation and in schools, hospitals, clinics, homeless shelters, youth and adult correctional facilities and long-term care facilities.

OHA also provided clarity on the continued enforcement of mask wearing in locations and at gatherings where an individual’s vaccination status is not being checked.

In essence, Oregonians need to continue to follow the science, remain vigilant, and do whatever is necessary to stop this disease. ONA encourages all Oregonians who can get the vaccine to do so as soon as possible.

Visit covidvaccine.oregon.gov to find out how to get a COVID-19 vaccine and access vaccine safety information.