High-quality masks such as N95s are now encouraged in all Vermont courthouses, according to a new directive from the Vermont Judiciary.
Masks were already required for all staff and visitors to courthouses. The new directive states that masks that have been proven to be more effective at protecting from infection, specifically N95, KN95 or KF94 masks, are preferred.
The recommendation is meant to address more contagious strains of Covid-19, according to a press release. The now-dominant Omicron variant has been driving case counts in Vermont to record levels for the past two weeks.
While Vermont is no longer under a state of emergency, the courts have been operating under a Judicial Emergency since March 2020. Courts are open, but with extensive safety protocols, and some operations remain limited.
The Judiciary last extended its emergency directive in November 2021. The order is scheduled to remain in effect through March 1.
The Vermont Department of Health also recommends the use of high-quality masks such as N95s to help limit the spread of Covid-19 in all indoor public settings. The department’s recommendations state that, if high-quality masks are not available, individuals should wear well-fitting cloth masks with at least two layers of tightly woven fabric, or a cloth mask in combination with a surgical mask.
—Mike Dougherty
