November 19, 2021
While vaccination continues to be the most important public health action to end the COVID–19 pandemic, the surge in cases across Michigan has prompted the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to issue a public health advisory.
Michigan is presently experiencing another wave of infection driven by the Delta variant, which is estimated to be twice as infectious as the original strain. The greatly increased infectiousness of the Delta variant has driven sharp increases in COVID–19 infections among both adults and children. In addition to COVID–19, Michigan is experiencing an uptick in cases of other respiratory illnesses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The widespread use of face masks would significantly reduce the spread of these viruses.
As such, on November 19, 2021, MDHHS is issuing the following advisory on the use of face masks. This advisory takes effect immediately and remains in effect until further notice.
All Michiganders, regardless of vaccination status, should take the following
actions to protect against COVID–19 and other respiratory illnesses:
Public Health Advisory:
(a) All persons in indoor public settings are advised to wear a face mask, regardless of their vaccination status.
(b) Public establishments are advised to implement masking policies and encourage compliance with such policies.
(c) Individuals who are not fully vaccinated or who are immunocompromised are advised to avoid large crowds or gatherings.
PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY
All Michiganders, regardless of vaccination status, should wear a mask in indoor public settings Michigan.gov/Coronavirus
MDHHS continues to recommend the use of other mitigation strategies:
- Get vaccinated against COVID–19. Everyone ages five and older should get an age–appropriate COVID–19 vaccine. If vaccinated, get a booster shot – everyone ages 18 years and older are eligible. Learn more about vaccines at Michigan.gov/COVIDVaccine.
- Get your flu shot. COVID–19 vaccines and flu vaccines can be given at the same appointment. Learn about preventing flu at Michigan.gov/Flu.
- Get tested if you are exposed or have symptoms. Anyone with signs or symptoms of COVID–19 should get tested regardless of vaccination status or prior infection. If you get tested because you have symptoms or were potentially exposed to the virus, you should stay away from others while you wait for your test result. Find a test site at Michigan.gov/CoronavirusTest.
- Avoid holiday travel if not fully vaccinated.
- Take additional steps to protect yourself and others. For additional guidance on mitigation strategies see How to Protect Yourself and Others.
- People who are immunocompromised should get vaccinated as well as any recommended additional doses and/or booster shots. People who have a condition or are taking medications that weaken their immune system may not be fully protected even if they are fully vaccinated. They should continue to take all precautions recommended for unvaccinated people including
wearing a mask at indoor gatherings and avoiding travel.
