Dallas County’s public health committee has reduced the county’s COVID-19 risk level.
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins announced on Friday, Oct. 29, that the committee dropped the county’s COVID-19 risk level from red to orange.
Dallas County COVID-19 risk level was raised to red in August due to increased COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations.
According to Jenkins, a reduced risk level does not “change orders or requirements.” Jenkins added that the change means there is now a possibility for some people to engage in a broader group of activities deemed safe by doctors.
Following the announcement, county health officials released a new set of COVID-19 safety guidelines for residents:
Jenkins encouraged people to keep wearing masks in places where social distancing is not possible, pointing out that Dallas County’s COVID-19 cases went up last Halloween.
Under the newly released COVID-19 risk level, fully vaccinated people can utilize outdoor seating at restaurants and bars. They are only to sit inside when the bars and restaurants observe social distancing and enforce face masks.
Under the orange level, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people are advised to choose takeout or curbside service.
Fully vaccinated people are “authorized” to engage in activities or visit places such as religious or funeral services, museums, libraries, salons, and gyms where masks and social distancing are enforced. Unvaccinated or those with only one shot of the vaccine should avoid indoor activities and wear their masks when they are in groups.
Fully vaccinated people are free to attend small group settings where all other members are also vaccinated. They are, however, advised to wear masks and practice social distancing while indoors.
Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people are advised to avoid all indoor gatherings outside their homes. However, they can consider outdoor events where social distancing and mask-wearing are enforced.
In the new guidelines, fully vaccinated people can participate in individual, team, and youth sports events outdoors, but they are advised to wear masks when possible.
Team and youth sports are not recommended for unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people.
Health officials also stated that they recommend regular testing for everyone, regardless of their vaccination status.
