State health officials are recommending guidance on wearing masks and social distancing that differs from recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The CDC said those who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear a mask or socially distance in most circumstances, but state epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said Tuesday that with the current rate of infection and vaccinations, that’s tough for businesses to follow. He is recommending everyone, regardless of their vaccination status, wear a mask and socially distance indoors when around people who are unvaccinated or if their vaccination status is unknown.”The CDC guidance was difficult, if not impossible, for businesses and organizations to figure out how to implement, and so we need to help our businesses and organizations figure out how to implement guidance in protective layers, in the interest of protecting their employees and patrons in the store,” Chan said.Gov. Chris Sununu said businesses need to follow what’s best for their situations. “Businesses can and should be making the best decision for the dynamics that they are dealing with every day, from both an employee and customer perspective,” Sununu said.Chan said the latest advice is a transitionary measure. He said an increase in vaccinations along with mitigation measures will end the pandemic faster than either step alone.
CONCORD, N.H. —
State health officials are recommending guidance on wearing masks and social distancing that differs from recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC said those who are fully vaccinated do not have to wear a mask or socially distance in most circumstances, but state epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan said Tuesday that with the current rate of infection and vaccinations, that’s tough for businesses to follow.
He is recommending everyone, regardless of their vaccination status, wear a mask and socially distance indoors when around people who are unvaccinated or if their vaccination status is unknown.
“The CDC guidance was difficult, if not impossible, for businesses and organizations to figure out how to implement, and so we need to help our businesses and organizations figure out how to implement guidance in protective layers, in the interest of protecting their employees and patrons in the store,” Chan said.
Gov. Chris Sununu said businesses need to follow what’s best for their situations.
“Businesses can and should be making the best decision for the dynamics that they are dealing with every day, from both an employee and customer perspective,” Sununu said.
Chan said the latest advice is a transitionary measure. He said an increase in vaccinations along with mitigation measures will end the pandemic faster than either step alone.