These are the changes Salt Lake County made to its masking recommendations

SALT LAKE CITY — You might see fewer masks in Salt Lake County now.

The county’s top health expert is saying people only need to continue to mask up to prevent COVID-19 if they have an underlying risk or spend a lot of time with others who have underlying risks.

Salt Lake County Health Department Executive Director, Dr. Angela Dunn, says that recommendation is based on the county’s hospitalizations.

“Now is the time to start rolling back some of these guidelines, at least for the near term,” Dunn said. “We can’t predict whether or not we’re going to have to shift our guidance again.”

She says the 7-day average of new hospitalizations in the county is nine, which is down from 53 in January.

“We have definitely seen a drastic decline in the right direction,” she said. 

Dunn is still asking people to stay up to date on their immunizations. And if you’re sick — with anything — keep it to yourself.

Here’s more about what the Salt Lake County Health Department is recommending:

• COVID vaccinations, including boosters when possible
• Isolating at home and getting tested for COVID if you have symptoms
• Wearing a high-filtration mask when indoors in public — if certain personal circumstances apply
• Seeking early treatment if you test positive and are at high risk for serious illness
• Maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition and regular physical activity

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