Publix makes face-coverings optional for fully vaccinated shoppers

LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida-based grocery chain Publix announced Friday that masks and face-coverings will no longer be required for fully vaccinated customers or employees.

>> Read more trending news

The restrictions will be lifted beginning Saturday, the company said in a news release posted to its website.

Publix’s announcement comes a day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that fully vaccinated people are no longer required to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors, except when in healthcare settings, on public transportation, or in other areas where governments require masks.

Publix, which has 1,270 locations across seven Southern states, is following the lead of another large grocery chain, Trader Joe’s, which also announced restrictions would be lifted for vaccinated customers.

“In accordance with CDC guidelines, individuals who are not fully vaccinated are required to use face coverings over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix store,” the company said in a news release.

Walmart and Costco, which also sell groceries, announced Friday that people fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will be able to shop without masks.

>> Walmart, Costco, Trader Joe’s lift mask restrictions for vaccinated customers

At Publix, “individuals who are not fully vaccinated are required to use face coverings over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix store,” spokeswoman Maria Brous said in a statement Friday.

She didn’t say how Publix would verify whether or not shoppers are fully vaccinated.

Publix has required masks since July 2020.

More coronavirus pandemic coverage:

>> Coronavirus: How long between exposure to the virus and the start of symptoms?

>> What are your chances of coming into contact with someone who has COVID-19? This tool will tell you

>> How to not let coronavirus pandemic fatigue set in, battle back if it does


On Air86KONO - Greatest Hits of the 60's and 70's Logo

mobile apps

Everything you love about 86kono.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!