Mask or no mask? Mandate lifts in Nashville, some places still require facial coverings
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — After nearly a year, Nashville took a giant step towards returning to pre-pandemic normalcy Friday. All COVID-19 restrictions, including the city’s mask mandate and capacity limits, have now expired.
The move comes after Metro Health on Thursday announced plans to keep the city’s indoor mask mandate in light of new CDC guidelines stating those with their vaccine are not required to wear a mask indoors in most circumstances. Those leading the fight against COVID-19 in Nashville said removing the mask mandate was “not feasible” due to less than 50 percent of Nashvillians being vaccinated against the virus. Just hours after Metro Health’s announcement, Metro’s Chair of the Board of Health, Director of Health and members of the epidemiology team flipped a switch and said the indoor mask mandate would be lifted Friday.
“The MPHD continues to strongly recommend wearing masks for those who are unvaccinated when in crowds, indoors, and when unable to socially distance, as also recommended by the CDC. Each individual business retains the right to set their own restrictions regarding the use of masks,” Metro Health said.
While 43 percent of people in Davidson County have received at least their first dose of the vaccine, some places in Music City are still requiring masks to be worn indoors.
Masks still required at:
- Nashville International Airport (BNA): Masks still required at BNA for everyone inside the terminal, on commercial aircraft, and on parking shuttles per TSA directive.
- Metro Schools: Masks still required in all MNPS facilities, as well as during graduations, until further notice.
*FOX 17 News will continue to add to this list as new information becomes available.*
RELATED STORY: Grand Ole Opry opens at full capacity, no mask mandate
Nashville has less than 1,000 active COVID-19 cases. Friday, Metro Health reported 39 new cases in the past day. 914 deaths in Nashville have been attributed to the virus. 96,934 have recovered.
In the meantime, health leaders are encouraging everyone who is eligible for the vaccine to get the shot. Find more information by clicking here.
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