Biden officials: No change to masking guidance right now

The Biden administration is not issuing updated masking guidance as coronavirus cases tick up across the country, officials said Thursday, but they acknowledged there are regular conversations between the White House and public health officials about how to combat the virus amid concerns about new variants.

The Washington Post reported Wednesday that top White House aides have had initial talks with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials about whether they should update masking guidance to encourage vaccinated Americans to use face coverings in certain settings as the more transmissible delta variant spreads.

CDC Director Rochelle Walensky on Thursday told reporters there has been no change to the agency’s guidance, but that “we are always looking at the data as the data come in.”

“If you’re in an area that has a high case rate and low rates of vaccination where delta cases are rising, you should certainly be wearing a mask if you are unvaccinated,” said Walensky, who added that those who are vaccinated can make the personal choice to wear a mask if they choose.