New recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a majority of Americans no longer need to wear a face mask while indoors.
The CDC classifies counties by 3 different community levels which are classified as low, medium, and high.
These community levels are determined by case numbers, hospital admissions, and hospital beds being used.
Low Level Or Green Level
- Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines
- Get tested if you have symptoms
Audrain, Monroe and Montgomery counties is considered a low level or green COVID-19 community level.
Medium Level Or Yellow Level
- High risk individuals should speak with their doctors about masking and other precautions
- Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines
- Get tested if you have symptoms
The majority of counties at the medium or yellow level include Boone, Callaway, Cole, Cooper, Osage counties.
High Level Or Orange Level
- Wear mask indoors in public
- Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines
- Get tested if you have symptoms
- Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness
Randolph and Chariton counties are considered high or orange level.
As of Friday, the CDC is no longer requiring children on public school buses to wear masks.