New York City reinstates mask advisory 'at all times' while indoors ahead of omicron detection

Officials in New York City have reinstated the city's mask advisory while indoors as the omicron variant continues to spread around the globe.

Officials in New York City have reinstated the city's mask advisory while indoors as the omicron variant continues to spread around the globe.

City health officials are "strongly recommending" that all residents wear masks inside public settings such as grocery stores, building lobbies and offices, regardless of vaccination status.

"This includes those who are vaccinated and those who have had COVID-19," Dr. Dave Chokshi, commissioner of the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, told reporters at a news conference Monday. "Higher quality masks can offer additional protection, and masks are still required for everyone in public transit, health care settings, schools and congregate settings."

While the new variant has not been detected yet in New York City, there will likely be a positive case confirmed within days "based on what we know about its global spread," Chokshi said.