CDC loosens COVID-19 indoor mask guidance, including for schools

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) moved Friday to loosen federal mask-wearing guidance for counties deemed to be at "low" or "medium" risk – including in schools.

Most Americans will no longer be advised to wear masks in indoor public settings and the agency announced a change to the metric it uses in recommending the face coverings – shifting from looking at COVID-19 cases counts to a more comprehensive view about a community's risk from the virus. Roughly 70% of Americans live in low- or medium-risk counties.

Under previous guidelines, masks were recommended for individuals in communities with substantial or high transmission. 

While the metrics will still consider cases, the agency will also take into account hospitalizations and local hospital capacity. 

The majority of people will no longer live in areas where the CDC is recommending masking. 

This action comes as states and cities around the country have lifted indoor mask mandates and proof of vaccination requirements.