Face coverings, masks and COVID-19

Updated March 28, 2023

Masks and vaccines are part of a layered approach to protecting our community against COVID-19. Although there is not a mask mandate for most indoor public places, masks continue to be an important public health tool for reducing the spread of COVID-19.

We recommend masks indoors if you are

at high risk
ill and can’t stay home.

Children under 2 years old or anyone who can’t remove the covering themselves should never wear a face covering.

Masks are required in some settings

Until April 3, 2023, some settings will continue to require everyone to wear face masks. These include:

Healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and doctors’ offices
Adult and youth detention facilities
Shelters and transitional housing

After April 3, masks will no longer be required.

Other places you may need to wear a mask

Masks are recommended for people who have had a positive COVID-19 test. Follow guidelines for masking while in isolation.

Schools, organizations, and local businesses can choose to continue mask requirements.

On public transportation including buses, the MAX, and air travel,

Masks are strongly recommended for people who have compromised immunity or live with someone who does.
Masks are encouraged for everyone, as one way to protect people who are unvaccinated, including children.

There may be future variants or situations that could lead to new mask recommendations

It's okay to keep wearing a mask

Masks still offer additional protection for yourself, those you live with, and others around you. Many people will continue wearing masks in a variety of settings. Wearing a mask is especially important for anyone

Not fully vaccinated.
In quarantine or isolation.
At higher risk of severe illness or who lives with people at higher risk.

Choosing a Mask

Face coverings come in many forms. Consider an N95, KN95, and KF94 respirator from a trusted source. However, there are other options, like disposable surgical masks or cloth masks.

The two most important things to focus on when selecting and wearing a mask are:

Pick a mask with multiple layers to keep your respiratory droplets in and others’ out. A mask with layers will stop more respiratory droplets getting inside your mask or escaping from your mask if you are sick. You can wear a cloth mask OVER a surgical mask.
Make sure your mask fits snugly against your face. Gaps can let air with respiratory droplets leak in and out around the edges of the mask.

Masks work best if they are worn correctly. Choose a mask that fits well and that you will wear consistently to get the best protection.

Discrimination is against the law

Everyone deserves respect.

Violence and discrimination are a daily experience for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities. Racism and racist reactions to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color wearing masks is a reality. And yet we know masks can help people to stay healthy and save lives.

Multnomah County does not tolerate discrimination or violence toward individuals because of their race, ethnicity or identity. Report discrimination or racist incidents>>