Gov. Kevin Stitt has announced plans to lift COVID-19 restrictions across the state on Friday. Although some have welcomed the news, the local health worker is not up to the decision.
Stitt and the Oklahoma Department of Health said the numbers show that the state has been ready to leave the pandemic in the past.
“This virus will never completely disappear. It’s going to be in Oklahoma for a while, but we can get back to normal,” Stitt said.
He made the announcement exactly one year until the day COVID-19 shut down the Oklahoma City Thunder game and the rest of the state.
From Friday, social events and sports events for youth do not have to comply with the capacity constraints.
“I am also removing the requirements to wear a mask in government buildings,” Stitt said.
Officials said low cases and high vaccine rates influenced the decision.
“Most of our teachers had at least one vaccine. Our children are back in the classroom. All residents and staff at nursing homes and long-term care facilities have an option to be vaccinated. This means that our most vulnerable population is now protected.” Said Stitt.
Although COVID numbers are declining in the state, the president of the Oklahoma Medical Association has said it’s too early to stop.
“Look, we have the virus on the ropes, we are winning these battles, we have the momentum, but we can not afford to return from this virus and regain power,” said Dr. George Monks, Oklahoma, said State Medical Association president. “We just have to keep doing what we do. Do what we know works, get vaccinated and continue with the 3 W’s.”
Going without a mask, especially indoors, is something Monks warns against. The upcoming celebrations in the spring holidays could also cause the numbers to rise.
“The areas that COVID likes to distribute are indoor areas where people are packed,” Monks said. “We’ve seen COVID every time after a big holiday every time, especially in the younger adults, and that’s why it’s still something we’m worried about.”
Although the restrictions are lifted across the country, any city mandates still apply.