Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has loosened COVID-19 restrictions on the base.
As of last week, the base has begun operating under health protection condition Alpha. This means that masks are now optional on base for people who have been vaccinated. Officials are asking people to continue physically distancing and maintaining hygiene while on base.
Base commander Colonel Patrick Miller says the loosening of restrictions is only possible because of people following safety measures, and medical advancements like vaccines.
“This isn’t a declaration of victory," said Miller. "This is recognition of the ground we’ve gained back. This is recognition of the processes that we have in place.”
If COVID-19 numbers continue to decline, Miller plans to terminate the public health emergency at the end of June.