The ADA has released answers to questions dental practices are getting about revised CDC recommendations on mask use for people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The ADA resource addresses questions about the continued need for screening, mask requirements and other issues. The CDC notes that symptom screening remains important for both patients and staff, and the ADA advises practices to post signage outlining infection control measures, provide supplies for infection control such as hand sanitizer, limit access to the practice and maintain a process for screening.

The ADA reminds dentists that the CDC guidance should be considered in conjunction with any state or local regulations.

Read more in ADA News.

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Please note that a release from the Governor's Office notes the following regarding the CDC mask guidance and that, as of May 19, 2021, Proclamation 20-24.2 is still in effect.

CDC masking guidance

Inslee announced that Washington will fully adopt masking guidance issued by the CDC earlier today. He stressed that this guidance is for fully vaccinated people — meaning people who are two weeks removed from their second shot of Pfizer or Moderna or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

The state will update our guidance documents — working with the Department of Health and Labor & Industries — to reflect this as soon as possible. Businesses retain the right to require customers wear masks.

The guidance does not apply to health care settings like hospitals, long-term care, or doctor’s offices; correctional facilities, homeless shelters, or schools. And the federal order requiring masks on public transportation remains in place.

See COVID-19 information for Washington dentists at wsda.org/COVID-19.