BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Public Health Commission announced Tuesday the city’s indoor mask mandate will be lifted on Saturday, March 5th. Residents and visitors of the city will no longer be required to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, such as gyms, bars and restaurants, museums, and entertainment venues.
Beginning Saturday, masks will no longer be required in most indoor spaces in Boston.
— Boston Public Health (@HealthyBoston) March 1, 2022
While they are no longer required, it is important to remember that masks are effective at preventing COVID-19 transmission, especially for high-risk groups. #bospoli
The BPHC voted unanimously in a virtual meeting Tuesday evening to end the mandate that has been in place since last August.
The decision was made based on key COVID-19 metrics, which showed continued improvement in the city of Boston.
“Based on the data we have seen over the past weeks, we can remove some of the prevention and mitigation strategies that have been necessary to protect residents,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission. “I am optimistic about where our city is headed, and the Commission will continue to monitor our key metrics and adjust our policies accordingly.”
Individual businesses in Boston still have the discretion to require masks inside. They will still be required on public transportation, in hospitals, and at nursing homes.
“I’m grateful that our city is ready to take this step in our recovery thanks to the hard work and commitment of residents keeping our communities safe over many, many months,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “As we continue to make progress even while living with COVID, Boston will continue leading on public health to keep our communities safe, healthy, and prepared.”
After meeting with the Board of Health, @HealthyBoston & @OjikutuBisola are lifting the indoor masking mandate on March 5.
— Mayor Michelle Wu 吳弭 (@MayorWu) March 1, 2022
We're heading in the right direction—with declining COVID positivity rates, less strain on our healthcare system & vaccination rates higher than ever. pic.twitter.com/bO0CCINIRA
The rescinded mask order does not impact Boston Public Schools. The Board of Health will hear additional updates on COVID-19 and school masking at its next regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday, March 9.
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