St. Louis begins mask mandate

Starting Monday, masks will once again be required for people over the age of five in indoor public places in St. Louis, Missouri.

Officials made the announcement Friday afternoon in a joint statement, as the fast spreading Delta variant is helping fuel an increase in COVID-19 cases in the area and the state.

People will be required to wear masks indoors and on public transportation.

Exceptions will be in place for people who are seated in a restaurant or bar and for individuals with disabilities that prevent them from putting on or removing face coverings.

The new mask mandate also applies to people who are fully vaccinated, and will include St. Louis County.