Citing the downward trend in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, on Thursday, both St. Paul and Minneapolis announced that the emergency regulations requiring people entering food and drink establishments to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test have been lifted effective immediately.
The cities’ requirements that masks are worn in most public places will remain in effect.
Case rates in Minneapolis have been dropping with a current seven-day new case rate of 499 per 100,000 people and positivity rates below the high-risk threshold, according to a City press release. When the emergency regulation went into effect, the seven-day new case rate exceeded 1,300 cases per 100,000 people and positivity rates were increasing rapidly.
Current CDC data for Ramsey County over the past seven days shows a 57.8% drop in cases and a 37.89% decline in new hospital admissions.
“Key public health metrics are trending in the right direction,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “That is a welcomed sign for Minneapolis, especially for the small businesses and restaurants that have shouldered the weight of this pandemic. Let’s hold the momentum and bring our city back in full by continuing to follow public health guidance and supporting local businesses.”
“We are grateful to be in a different place now than we were when this requirement first took effect,” said Mayor Carter. “While I encourage residents to continue to get vaccinated, wear masks, and practice social distancing while indoors, the sharp decline in cases and hospitalizations means we can safely lift the vaccine requirement in our city.”
Businesses that wish to continue with their own vaccine or testing requirements may continue to do so.
Health officials continue to stress that COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, ending up in the hospital, and even dying. The CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older get their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines and receive a booster dose when eligible.
To find a vaccine provider, use the State’s Vaccine Locator Map.
