Mecklenburg County Mask Mandate Could Be Lifted Soon
Charlotte, you might be able to take those masks off sooner than you think. As noted on MeckNC.gov, effective August 31, 2021, the COVID-19 positivity rate had to be under 5% for four consecutive weeks before the mask mandate would be lifted. This has now changed. A new update on the mask mandate in Mecklenburg County states that masks can come off if the positivity rate stays below 5% for seven consecutive dates.
According to WSOC-TV, the mandate would automatically lift once that goal is met. Today, Monday, November 15th, the county reported the metric was 5.1%. This again will only happen if the positivity rates stay low so stay home if you are feeling sick. The seven consecutive day positivity rate is calculated on a rolling basis and includes all PCR tests reported to NC DHHS via electronic laboratory reporting. Using the seven-day rate lowers the possibility that random spikes increase the overall positivity rate.
Details of the mask mandate include the following:
- The mandate requires anyone 5 years old or older to wear a mask while indoors.
- This applies to stores, restaurants, movie theaters, gyms, offices, etc.
- A mask must be worn while indoors unless you are eating or drinking.
- Private schools, many of whom did not require masks, will now be under this mandate.
GALLERY: The Pandemic and North Carolina
