Vaccination/Testing Restrictions Lifted
As of May 5, 2022, Orleans Parish is categorized as having LOW COVID-19 Community Level, when considering the three CDC measures together and using the thresholds listed in Section III of the City of New Orleans Health Department Guidelines for COVID-19 document. As a result, the New Orleans Health Department lifted requirements on COVID-19 proof of vaccination or proof a recent negative COVID test to enter certain establishments. These updated guidelines went into effect May 5, 2022, at 6 a.m.
City of New Orleans Guidelines
Residents should prepare for the likelihood of future surges by continuing to assess risk levels for themselves and loved ones and relying on proven mitigation strategies: testing, masks, and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations.
Face Masks
Although masks are encouraged, individuals are no longer required by the City, State, or Federal government to wear masks in the following spaces:
- Public transportation.
- Some health care facilities and long-term care settings. Reach out to the facility directly for guidance on their masking policies.
Nothing in these guidelines shall prevent private businesses from requiring vaccinations, negative tests, masks, or social distancing to conduct operations.
Vaccination
- Residents and visitors will no longer be required to provide proof of full vaccination or a recent negative test to enter bars, restaurants, event spaces, and other businesses previously covered under regulations.
- The City encourages all residents and visitors to get vaccinated if they have not already done so, including booster shots.
Nothing in these guidelines shall prevent private businesses from requiring vaccinations, negative tests, masks, or social distancing to conduct operations.
General Recommendations to All Individuals and Businesses
The New Orleans Health Department provides the following general recommendations to all individuals, institutions, and businesses to best mitigate the further spread of COVID-19 in New Orleans.
- All residents and visitors to the City of New Orleans should take personal responsibility to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, by assessing the individual risk of attending large and/or crowded gatherings, considering face coverings in public, and staying up to date on vaccinations.
- Individuals who are considered high risk for complications due to COVID-19, such as the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions should maintain an elevated level of protection through avoiding large and/or crowded gatherings, considering face coverings in public, and staying up to date on vaccinations.
Nothing in these guidelines shall prevent private businesses from requiring vaccinations, negative tests, masks, or social distancing to conduct operations.