BALTIMORE — The Baltimore City Health Department announced Wednesday the end of the COVID-19 national public fitness emergency a day before the U. S. ended that state.
The World Health Organization announced the end of the physical emergency last week.
The fitness arm said it plans to use the investment from the American Rescue Plan Act to continue many COVID-19-related next year.
These come with the provision of loose vaccinations and home testing, and the accommodation of clinics in the neighbourhoods.
As of May 11, the city’s pandemic dashboard will no longer show volume and percent positivity, as they can no longer be calculated after adjustments to COVID-19 verification reporting requirements.
City leaders said the update in office in a series of statements Wednesday, but called for caution and preparation as the virus continues to spread.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said “there’s no challenge we can’t face” as the city fights together and expressed pride in the city’s reaction under his leadership.
“The end of the national public fitness emergency is therefore a vital achievement, but one we should not take for granted,” the mayor said. “COVID-19 remains the third leading cause of death for the third year in a row. To keep Baltimore safe, we want to continue to make wise decisions about fitness, as well as listen to medical rules and stay up to date with COVID-19 reminders. It’s been 3 long years for Baltimore, but 3 resilient years. Together, let’s continue to show how strong we are.
Baltimore City’s Acting Deputy Mayor, Dr. Letitia Dzirasa, who in the past served as the city’s fitness commissioner during the pandemic, reminded citizens to remain vigilant despite the revocation of the state of emergency.
“. . . if you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should be checked out immediately. If you have COVID-19, you will have to self-isolate according to medical guidelines,” he said. “And most importantly, if you’re not vaccinated or up to date on your vaccinations, take credit for Baltimore’s COVID-19 vaccination services. “
To learn more about the city’s COVID-19 and information, click here.