If you're vaccinated, is it time to ditch the mask inside stores? In some cases, yes.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relaxed COVID-19 guidelines Thursday, recommending that fully vaccinated individuals can safely stop wearing masks inside most locations.
The rules will still call for wearing masks in crowded indoor settings such as buses, planes, hospitals, prisons and homeless shelters but could ease restrictions for reopening workplaces and schools.
With the updated guidelines and the news that Ohio is loosening it COVID-19 restrictions June 2, some stores and supermarket chains are reviewing their current mask mandate policies.
More:Ohio will lift mask mandate, all COVID-19 health orders June 2
Here is a list of supermarket chains in the Cincinnati area and their most recent guidance on mandating masks:
Kroger
The Cincinnati-based supermarket giant announced Thursday it will continue to require everyone to wear masks in stores, both at Kroger and the regional chains it operates in 35 states, including Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter, Ralphs, Mariano's, Fry's, Smith's, King Soopers, QFC and others.
"We appreciate Governor DeWine’s thoughtful approach to distancing and mask restrictions that acknowledge businesses need for continued flexibility to implement safety protocols," read the statement.
The company said it is reviewing current safety practices, the CDC’s latest guidance, and soliciting feedback from associates to guide the next phase of its policy.
More:Behind Kroger's Cincinnati plastic bag flap
Walmart
As of Friday, vaccinated customers and members can also shop without a mask. Walmart is asking that non-vaccinated customers and members continue to wear face coverings. The signage will be updated to reflect the new policy, according to a memo from Walmart.
Fully vaccinated employees do not have to wear a mask at work beginning May 18, according to the memo.
More:Shoppers and others better hold onto their masks for now
Target
According to its website, Target will continue to require all COVID-19 safety measures in all stores, including masks and social distancing, while the store reviews and evaluates the guidance from the CDC for employees and shoppers.
Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's has updated its mask policy and will not require customers who are fully vaccinated to wear a mask.
Trader Joe's website includes a with a statement encouraging customers to follow guidance health officials, including “as appropriate, CDC guidelines that advise customers who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear masks while shopping.”
Store employees will continue to have wellness checks and be screened for COVID-19.
Meijer
Masks or face coverings will still be required in stores, according to a statement from Meijer.
"While we are aware of new CDC guidance, many state or local orders in the Meijer footprint remain in effect regarding masks," the statement reads. "In order to help ensure the continued health and safety of all its team members and customers, Meijer continues to require face coverings by anyone entering a Meijer store or Meijer Express station at all locations, except where medical conditions prevent them from wearing one."
Aldi
Masks are still required inside stores, according to Aldi's website. An Aldi representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment on any updated policies.
Jungle Jim's
Masks are still required inside the Fairfield and Eastgate location, according to Jungle Jim's website. A Jungle Jim's representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment on any updated policies.
Whole Foods
Masks are still required inside stores, according to Whole Foods' website. A Whole Foods representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment on any updated policies.
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