Prognosis

CDC Lifts Most Mask Guidance in Key Step Back to Normal

  • Agency shift is radical departure from guidance just weeks ago
  • Research further indicates vaccine efficacy, protections: CDC
CDC chief Rochelle Walensky speaks at a White House news briefing on Thursday.
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President Joe Biden took his biggest step yet toward declaring victory over the coronavirus pandemic -- as public health officials said fully vaccinated Americans can ditch their masks in most settings, even indoors or in large groups.

“Today is a great day for America in our long battle with coronavirus,” Biden said in the White House Rose Garden on Thursday, calling the U.S. vaccination program an “historical logistical achievement.”