Governor João Doria (PSDB) announced that, after 22 months of mandatory use, the use of a mask in outdoor places has become optional in the state of São Paulo. The measure is effective immediately and includes open spaces in schools, such as playgrounds and patios.
In closed environments, protection remains mandatory, and disobedience to the rule is punished with a fine.
The decision follows the reduction in deaths and hospitalizations resulting from Covid in the state, which recorded an average of 146 of the 505 daily deaths in the country in the last seven days.
Doria, who made his announcement after Rio de Janeiro and other states, also allowed sporting events to occupy 100% of the audience, as long as they require proof of vaccination. Football stadiums had received, until then, a maximum of 70% of the public.
The governor is considering abolishing the mask also in closed places by the end of this month.
According to the government, 89% of the population over five years of age is fully vaccinated. But coverage is still uneven across cities, especially for children.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon