COVID-19 UPDATE #158
May 13, 2021
CDC GUIDANCE REGARDING VACCINATED INDIVIDUALS AND MASKS DOES NOT APPLY TO LONG TERM CARE FACILITIES
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance today titled Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People. Governor Inslee announced in a press conference today that the state of Washington would be adopting the guidance but emphasized the following exceptions that include long term care facilities:
  • Hospitals
  • Long Term Care Facilities - assisted living and skilled nursing included, among others
  • Correctional Facilities
  • Homeless Shelters
  • Schools
  • Public Transportation

For healthcare and other settings listed above, this guidance does NOT apply.

It is important to note the guidance is only for fully vaccinated individuals (those who are two weeks past their single does of Johnson & Johnson vaccine or two weeks past their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine). Governor Inslee also noted that while the state is adopting this guidance, individual businesses may still require masks or facial coverings, and all individuals who desire may continue wearing a mask in any setting--indoor or outdoor.

It is important that all assisted living and skilled nursing facilities continue to follow the safe start plans approved by the governor. The safe start plans are provided here:

If you have questions about the new guidance and how it may or may not impact your facility or organization, please email Elena Madrid or Vicki McNealley.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
WHCA continues to post resources and information as it becomes available on our website. If you have questions or need additional information, please call the WHCA office at (800) 562-6170.