Credit: Unsplash

All patrons of Disneyland and Disney World must wear masks once again.

Earlier in the summer, Disney dropped face mask requirements at their theme parks for fully vaccinated patrons, though these relaxed requirements were on the honor system. This decision was initial made when cases were down and vaccination rates were up, but as vaccinations have started slipping and COVID-19 cases are on the rise again, especially in Disney World’s home state of Florida, Disney has been forced to walk back their decision.

Disney announced today that all patrons at Disney World in Orlando, Florida and Disneyland in Anaheim, California over the age of 2 will be required to wear a face mask in all indoor areas of the parks whether they’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or not. These requirements will be imposed on all staff members as well.

“We are adapting our health and safety guidelines based on guidance from health and government officials, and will require Cast Members and Guests ages 2 and up, to wear face coverings in all indoor locations at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort beginning Friday, July 30, regardless of vaccination status,” a Disney spokesperson said in a press release.

“At Walt Disney World Resort, this includes upon entering and throughout all attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles, buses, monorails and at Disney Skyliner,” the spokesperson added.

According to the most recent statistics, roughly 48.6% of Florida residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 so far, with 16,038 new cases and 92 deaths reported on Wednesday alone. California is faring only slightly better, with a 52.5% vaccination rate, 8,598 new cases, and 29 deaths.