U.S. CDC weighs new guidance, masks still key in some cases, chief says

Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention answers questions during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing to examine the federal response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and new emerging variants at Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S. January 11, 2022. Greg Nash/Pool via REUTERS

WASHINGTON, Feb 16 (Reuters) – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is weighing new COVID-19 guidance as cases decline, the agency’s chief said on Wednesday, adding that officials realize people want a break from masks but that they are still key in some circumstances.

Hospital capacity will also be a key metric the agency weighs in making any changes, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky told reporters at a news briefing.

Reporting by Susan Heavey and Ahmed Aboulenein

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