Universal Orlando is updating its mask requirement policy to remove the need for vaccinated visitors to wear face coverings at indoor venues.
The resort, which comprises Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, advises unvaccinated guests to continue wearing facial masks when indoors.
“Fully vaccinated guests will no longer be required to wear face coverings indoors or outdoors effective, Saturday, February 12,” the resort said in a statement issued by Kristen Clark Smith, senior manager of public relations.
“Guests who have not been vaccinated will be encouraged to wear face coverings while indoors.”
On Dec. 24, 2021, shortly after the highly-contagious omicron variant was discovered, the company reinstated the mask-wearing restriction at indoor venues such as restaurants, stores, indoor hotel public areas, and all attractions.
The new decision was made due to “local trends and conditions” related to the COVID-19 pandemic, said Universal.
Regarding those trends and conditions, the Florida Department of Health reported 132,622 new cases from Jan. 28 to Feb. 3, which is less than a third of the cases reported during the first week of January.
Universal may appear to have a system in place to determine who is vaccinated and who isn’t but in fact, the resort does not require proof of vaccination.
However, those experiencing flu-like symptoms or people who have come in contact with a known or suspected COVID-19 positive case should not visit the attraction, according to the updated policy.
Visitors should be aware that Universal Orlando does not longer require its employees to be vaccinated, and those who are not vaccinated are not compelled to test on a weekly basis.
Universal’s vaccination policy changed after the Supreme Court ruled out the vaccine or testing mandate on Jan. 13.
Team members should still inform Universal of their vaccination status, but providing proof of status is optional.