CDC Updates Community Levels

Rather than focusing on eliminating all virus transmission, CDC will recommend prevention measures, such as masks, when the level of severe disease in communities has the potential to overwhelm the healthcare system. These prevention measures can reduce that strain and avoid crisis.  

For communities—these new metrics help communities determine which prevention strategies at different points of an outbreak are needed to prevent disruptions from COVID, increase protection against severe disease and strained hospitals, and save lives.

For community members—these new metrics help them assess theCOVID-19 risk in their community, so they can determine if extra precautions, including masks, are needed based on their location, health status, and the level of personal risk they are willing to accept.

CDC - Mask
CDC - County Guidance