Monroe County rescinds COVID-19 health order effective today

BLOOMINGTON – On Friday, the Monroe County Health Department issued a press release rescinding current restrictions and guidelines effective today at 8 a.m.

Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton will also rescind Executive Order 20-03, which limited non-commercial gatherings within city limits to 15 people, according to a release. That order will also go into effect today.

Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton

“The City continues to follow the guidance of our national and local health experts in protecting our residents,” said Mayor Hamilton.  “While it’s an encouraging step that the city’s local gathering size limits are being removed and replaced with state-wide guidance, it’s critical to remember that many of our residents and visitors are still not vaccinated, so we should maintain the safety measures that have gotten us this far whenever possible. Local establishments and employers can and should consider steps that can keep their patrons and employees and our community safe while this pandemic still threatens.”

The Monroe County Board of Health will meet Wednesday, May 19 to “assess data and consider further updates or changes,” according to the release.

According to the CDC fully vaccinated people do not need to wear a mask or socially distance when inside or outside. A person is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention directed unvaccinated individuals to continue to socially distance and use masks. Organizations and businesses may still require masks and socially distancing.