CECC announces plans to relax indoor mask rules; eased rules scheduled to take effect on Feb. 20 if pandemic situation remains stable


PublishTime:2023-02-09
On February 9, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) announced that it will implement general rules for eased indoor mask requirements on February 20 if the coronavirus situation remains stable and under control. Related details are listed below.

I. Masks should be worn at all times indoors in the places/venues listed below. These places include:

A. Health care facilities: healthcare, medical, and senior welfare institutions, long-term care facilities, veterans home, children and youth services, and care institutions for physically or mentally disabled people.
B. Public transportation and designated vehicles: trains, ships, aircraft, and other vehicles and stations/terminals.

In the following situations, wearing a mask will not be required in the places/venues above: eating, taking photos, during checkups or activities where wearing a mask is not appropriate or feasible.

II. Wearing a mask is recommended in the situations listed below.

A. When a fever or respiratory symptoms are present;
B. When elderly people or people with weak immune systems go out;
C. When people are in a crowded place where proper distance with others cannot be maintained or ventilation is poor;
D. When people come into close contact with elderly people or people with weak immune systems (especially those who are not fully vaccinated).

III. Members of the public can choose to wear or not wear a mask in other indoor places or spaces by themselves.

IV. The abovementioned measures are general rules, and relevant details may be enacted according to the competent authority's regulations.

The CECC pointed out that the mask rules to be followed at all schools, preschools, after-school care centers, cram schools, and infant care centers will be implemented according to the plans of the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health and Welfare. Pursuant to their plans, relevant epidemic prevention measures will be reinforced when the new school semester begins. If the pandemic situation is stable, starting March 6, the indoor mask requirements will be loosened at schools as well as childcare facilities in accordance with the CECC's general rules.