As COVID-19 cases rise across the United States, Disney is reintroducing mask requirements at its parks. If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland or Disney World, be sure to bring your mask along. Starting tomorrow, Disney will require all guests aged 2 and older to wear face coverings indoors and while using Disney buses, monorails, and the Disney Skyliner, irrespective of vaccination status. This policy also applies to entering attractions and remains optional in outdoor areas.
Guests will not be asked to show proof of vaccination, but Disney encourages unvaccinated visitors to wear masks indoors and during attractions and transportation, excluding ferry boats. Masks are still optional in outdoor areas, regardless of vaccination status.
Previously, Disney had lifted its indoor mask policy in June, but due to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases, the company has decided to reinstate it just six weeks later. This change aligns with recent CDC recommendations advising Americans to wear masks in high-risk areas, which is particularly relevant for states housing Disney parks.
In Florida, where Disney World is situated, the daily average of new infections exceeds 12,000, making it the highest in the nation, while hospitals are overwhelmed with patients, the vast majority being unvaccinated. Meanwhile, California, home to Disneyland, is also facing challenges, reporting around 7,500 new cases daily and has updated its indoor mask guidelines for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
The mask mandate is likely to provoke mixed reactions among the public, but with the pandemic still ongoing, this measure aims to safeguard everyone involved. To prevent potential future closures, similar to the over 400-day shutdown of Disneyland and four-month closure of Disney World during last year’s peak, masking up is crucial.
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Summary:
Disney is reinstating indoor mask requirements at its U.S. parks due to the surge in COVID-19 cases. All guests aged 2 and older must wear masks indoors and on Disney transportation, while outdoor masks remain optional. This decision comes after a previous lift of the mandate in June, aligning with CDC guidelines to combat rising infections in states like Florida and California. The move aims to protect both guests and staff and minimize the risk of park closures.