US: Commonwealth of Virginia lifts facemask requirements as of May 17; further relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions May 28 /update 16

Event

Officials in Virginia have lifted requirements for individuals to wear a protective facemask in most indoor settings as of May 17. The measure is due to a decrease in COVID-19 infections, hospitalization, and an increase in the number of vaccinated residents.

However, officials continue to require individuals to wear facemasks in public transportation, child care centers, schools, and most healthcare facilities. Employees working in certain businesses, including restaurants, fitness centers, and entertainment venues, must also continue to wear facemasks indoors.

Authorities will also lift all remaining business restrictions, as well as social distancing measures, May 28. Until May 27, indoor social gatherings can have up to 100 attendees, with outdoor gatherings being able to host up to 250 persons. Entertainment and public amusement venues can operate at 50-percent capacity, albeit up to a maximum of 1,000 persons for indoor facilities. Indoor and outdoor sporting events will be allowed to have spectators up to certain limits. Restaurants will be allowed to sell alcohol after midnight and will no longer be required to close in-person services between 00:01-05:00. For more details on Virginia's COVID-19 guidelines, click here.

Officials could amend the orders at short notice, depending on disease activity in the coming weeks.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities. Confirm appointments in advance.

Resources

WHO Coronavirus Knowledge Base
Virginia - COVID-19 Updates
Government of Virginia - Guidelines for Businesses