Richmond Times-Dispatch Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new COVID-19 guidance that marked a sea change in public health precautions addressing the coronavirus. â[F]ully vaccinated people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in any setting, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance,â the federal agency said. The announcement led to a cascade of local changes. As of midnight on Saturday, Virginiaâs mask mandate was lifted in most locales, except for public transit, health care facilities and congregate settings. On May 28, capacity and distancing restrictions at gatherings also will be eased.