County mask order expires, vaccines open for teens 12-15

     The Jackson County health order, which required masks in indoor businesses and places of public accommodation, expired the afternoon of May 14th.          
     The announcement follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s revision to its guidance for fully vaccinated individuals. The new guidance states that individuals who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 can resume activities — both indoor or outdoor, large or small — without wearing a mask or social distancing. Exceptions to this new guidance include health care settings, correctional facilities, homeless shelters and public transportation.
     According to CDC, individuals are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
     “While this is welcome news for many, we cannot forget that this virus is still present and poses a risk to our residents, especially those who are not fully vaccinated. People are still contracting COVID-19 and dying from it. We need everyone to take personal responsibility and get vaccinated so we can truly put this devastating virus behind us,” Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. said.
     Businesses and other spaces continue to have the right to set their own mask requirements for entry. Masks will still be required in county buildings and facilities for staff and visitors until further notice.
     In an email to district parents on May 16th, Grain Valley Schools announced they have discontinued the mask mandate effective immediately, later clarifying that Jackson County will continue to require masks be worn on school buses. 
    The district stated it would "strongly recommend face coverings for individuals who are not fully vaccinated, consistent with Jackson County officials and CDC guidelines."
     Additionally, the district reaffirmed persons not fully vaccinated who are exposed to someone with COVID-19 will still need to be isolated for 14 days.
     The COVID-19 vaccine is now widely available, and vaccines are now available for teens aged 12-15.
     Local options include Crosetti Health and Wellness, located at 510 N Main in downtown Grain Valley. The pharmacy currently offers the Moderna vaccine and expect a shipment of Pfizer vaccine soon.  Those seeking a vaccine may walk-in during regular business hours..
     The Jackson County Health Department continues to offer vaccine clinics. Appointments can be made by calling 816-404-6415 or registering on their website. Visit jacohd.org/covid-vaccines for more information.
     Those who are homebound and interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine may call the MARC vaccine registry helpline at 816-421-4980 or 800-593-7948. Phone lines operate Monday—Friday from 9:00am—4:00pm.
     The State of Missouri also offers a “Get A Ride” website, covidvaccine.mo.gov/ride/#region_a, which outlines a number of providers offering free rides to those needing to access a vaccine. Locally, the OATS Transit service will transport residents.
     “The science is clear – these vaccines are extremely effective in limiting community transmission and protecting the most vulnerable among us,” Jackson County Health Department Director Bridgette Shaffer, MPH said.
     “We encourage everyone age 12 and older to take advantage of this important tool to help us end the pandemic.”