The CDC’s latest guidance is another signpost on the road back to normal, and it will be a relief to many. But we still have to be smart, and cautious, because COVID is not gone — we cannot declare ‘all clear’ yet.”

Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega

Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega has withdrawn his emergency proclamation requiring face masks in city buildings and facilities, city officials say.

A May 13 press release from the city’s communication’s office says the decision was based on the recent U.S. Centers for Disease Control announcement that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in any non-health care setting.

People are still encouraged to cover one’s nose or mouth when interacting with others, the press release states.

“The CDC’s latest guidance is another signpost on the road back to normal, and it will be a relief to many. But we still have to be smart, and cautious, because COVID is not gone — we cannot declare ‘all clear’ yet,” said Mayor Ortega in a prepared statement. “Vaccinations are proven effective and have helped us get to this point. We ask people in Scottsdale to treat others with courtesy, respect, and with awareness of the health concerns that remain about this deadly virus.”

Withdrawing the mask order acknowledges the CDC’s latest guidance and the fact that Scottsdale has the highest vaccination rate of the major Valley cities, the press release states. The Independent reported on Monday, May 10, that about 142,000 Scottsdale residents had received the vaccine.

Although COVID-19 cases decreased from previous week, the city remains in substantial community spread. Scottsdale, like most of the Valley, has been in substantial (or higher) community transmission for 30 straight weeks (since Oct. 4). Once community spread moves consistently into the moderate (or lower) range, additional changes are expected, the press release stated.

The state of Arizona vaccination point of distribution site at WestWorld remains in operation, vaccines are available and now authorized for anyone ages 12 and older. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are also accepted.