US capital ending COVID-19 vaccination, mask mandates: Mayor

WASHINGTON

Washington, D.C. is ending its COVID-19 vaccination requirement and mask mandate, the US capital’s mayor said Monday.

Speaking at a news conference, Muriel Bowser said coronavirus cases have dropped more than 90% and there has been a 95% reduction in hospitalizations since the peak of the omicron wave in the capital.

With new changes in the COVID-19 policy, the city will end the vaccination requirement to visit indoor venues as of Tuesday, Feb. 15. The mandate was announced in December.

As of March 1, masks will not be required in restaurants and bars, gyms, houses of worship, grocery stores and D.C. government offices, said the mayor.

However, masks will still be required at schools, childcare facilities, nursing homes and on public transport.

According to local health authorities, nearly 133,000 COVID-19 cases have been reported in the capital so far and 1,309 people have died.