BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) – As the CDC guidelines allow fully-vaccinated people to unmask, the suggestions on the local level are following suit.
Brown County Public Health is following CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health guidance, but spokesperson Claire Paprocki says it’s important for people to consider everything before removing the mask.
“We’re still encouraging folks to assess their individual situations and their individual life and lifestyles and who’s in their life. Just like the whole pandemic, it’s about level of risk,” Paprocki told WTAQ News.
She says people who are in constant contact with someone like a cancer patient or who may be otherwise immuno-compromised should consider continuing to mask.
For those working in healthcare settings like operating rooms and emergency rooms, Paprocki says it’s likely employer policies will continue to require masking to maintain safety and health for those being served. If you’re not a doctor or working in a higher-risk setting, it’s obviously a different situation, and Paprocki says you’re encouraged to assess the risks and decide accordingly.
Meanwhile, people as young as 12-years-old are now allowed to receive the Pfizer shots.
“We’re leaving it up to the schools or school districts right now to reach out and let us know how we can help or what they need from us,” Paprocki said. “There are schools that have already reached out to the health care systems, the actual vaccinators, to set up. I believe Prevea has already done a number of clinics on-site with different schools.”
Paprocki says the De Pere Health Department is also reportedly working with local schools on their own versions of clinics.
For those in older age brackets seeking the vaccine, you might be able to choose a preference between the three current options available in the state.
“It doesn’t hurt to ask. I couldn’t guarantee that 100% of the time you’d be able to get the one that you pick, but it’s always worth an ask when you call to schedule that appointment or when you walk in,” Paprocki said.
For more information on Brown County COVID-19 suggestions, head to their website.