Governor Kevin Stitt announced that he plans to lift restrictions on COVID-19 on Friday across the state. Although the news is welcome for some, local health professionals do not agree with the decision.
Stitt and the Oklahoma State Department of Health said the figures show the state is ready to leave the pandemic in the past.
“This virus will never completely disappear. It will stay in Oklahoma for a while, but we can go back to normal,” said Stitt.
He made the announcement exactly a year before the day that COVID-19 closed the Oklahoma City Thunder game and the rest of the state.
As of Friday, social gatherings and youth sporting events will not have to comply with capacity limits.
“I am also removing the requirements for wearing masks in public buildings,” said Stitt.
Officials said the low case count and high vaccine rates are influencing the decision.
“Most of our teachers have already had at least one vaccine. Our children are back in the classroom. All residents and employees of nursing homes and long-term institutions have had the option of a vaccine. This means that our most vulnerable population now is protected, “said Stitt.
Although the state’s COVID numbers are dropping, the president of the Oklahoma State Medical Association said it was too early to let his guard down.
“Look, we have the virus on the ropes, we are winning these battles, we have the momentum, but we cannot afford to turn away from this virus and let it regain strength,” said Dr. George Monks, Oklahoma President of the State Medical Association. “We just have to keep doing what we are doing. Do what we know works, get vaccinated and continue the 3 W’s ”.
Going without a mask, especially indoors, is something Monks warns against. The festivities of the upcoming spring break may also increase the numbers.
“The areas this COVID likes to spread out are indoor areas, where people are kind of crowded,” said Monks. “We have seen COVID increases every time after an important holiday, especially among younger adults, and that is another thing that concerns us.”
Even if state restrictions are lifted, any municipal mandates are still in effect.