Mask Mandate Removed In Fairfax County Government Facilities

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — Masks are no longer required in most Fairfax County government facilities, the county announced Monday.

The change applies to county employees and visitors. The changes are based on new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention metrics for COVID-19 community transmission. Under the new metrics — hospital beds used, hospital admissions, new COVID-19 cases — Fairfax County currently has low transmission.

There are a few locations where masks are required. By federal mandate, masks must be worn on public transit such as Fairfax Connector and Fastran as well as commercial aircraft. Masks are still required in health care facilities, including clinics settings managed by the Fairfax County Health Department and the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board. Masks are required in congegate settings like jails, group homes and shelters, as well as Fairfax County Courthouse courtrooms at the discretion of the presiding judge. Private businesses may choose to implement their own mask requirements.

Fairfax County Public Schools is also dropping its mask requirement based on a new state law allowing a mask opt-out for students. The school district said based on new CDC guidance showing low transmission in Fairfax County, masks will also be optional for staff starting March 1.

While community transmission is low, the county recommends people at higher risk of COVID-19 complications take additional precautions. COVID-19 vaccinations are recommended for ages 5 and up, and boosters are recommended for those 12 and older. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms or exposure is urged to seek testing.