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CDC relieves Pima County of federal mask mandate, takes it off "high risk" for COVID

Only required if doctor recommends
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TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The CDC has relieved Pima County of the federal mask mandate by removing its high-risk status Thursday afternoon.

New metrics used to judge whether counties require a mask indoors will now take into account hospitalizations, local hospitalization capacity and new COVID-19 cases.

CDC analysts use those metrics to create three levels of risk:

  • Low
    • Indoor masks are not needed
  • Medium
    • People who are at high risk of severe COVID should consult with their doctor about prevention measures including masks
  • High
    • Indoor mask use is recommended

According to these risk levels, residents of Pima County no longer have to wear their masks indoor unless their doctor recommends otherwise.

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Caleb Fernández is a digital content producer for KGUN 9. After earning his bachelor's degree from Penn State in Advertising/Public Relations, Caleb went to New York where he learned production assistance, photography and art direction. Share your story ideas and important issues with Caleb by emailing caleb.fernandez@kgun9.com or by connecting on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter.