Arizona cities are changing their policies on face coverings.

The move comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended vaccinated people resume wearing masks indoors and in high-risk areas. Previously, masks were optional for vaccinated people in city buildings and facilities. 

According to the Maricopa County Health Department’s COVID-19 dashboard, most Valley cities are experiencing high community transmission rates. The most recent data from July 22 showed Phoenix with 103.69 new cases per 100,000 people and more than 13.39% of COVID-19 tests reported as positive. 

Phoenix will resume face covering requirements on Monday, Aug. 2. In an email to KJZZ, a city representative wrote:

“On May 19, 2021 the Phoenix Council updated the ‘Amended Declaration of the Phoenix City Council Regarding Face Coverings’ to automatically adjust mask policies in accordance with current CDC guidance.  With the announcement of the updated recommendations from the CDC, the city will be requiring masks inside city facilities beginning Monday.

As stated in the Declaration, private businesses continue to set their own policies regarding face coverings. We encourage residents to follow CDC guidelines for the health and safety of our community.”

Earlier this month, Phoenix postponed its full return to workplace plans due to rising community transmission rates.

Starting Thursday, July 29, Peoria will require masks for all individuals in all city buildings. Tucson resumed its mas mandate Wednesday, July 28.

In a news release, Tucson Mayor Regina Romera said, “According to the CDC, Pima County is an area of ‘substantial transmission,’ with COVID-19 cases increasing locally and statewide.” 

COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no charge to everyone. The Maricopa County Health Department has a list of locations. A CDC run website allows you to enter your zip code and search locations based on vaccine type.

The CDC’s July 27 guidance includes:

• Updated information for fully vaccinated people given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (delta) variant currently circulating in the United States.

• Added a recommendation for fully vaccinated people to wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission.

• Added information that fully vaccinated people might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they are immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease from COVID-19, or if they have someone in their household who is immunocompromised, at increased risk of severe disease or not fully vaccinated.

• Added a recommendation for fully vaccinated people who have a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to be tested 3-5 days after exposure, and to wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.

• CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status.