Starting today, the city is lifting the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for those working in the private sector, as well as for public school students who play sports.

The city is now encouraging private businesses to put their own vaccine policies in place and to make the COVID-19 vaccine optional. They’re also making it optional for children who participate in sports or extracurricular activities.

Mayor Eric Adams made the announcement back in September - saying he wants to give parents and businesses more flexibility.

Health commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vassan says that since the city is out of the emergency phase of the pandemic, this is the next step to get back to normalcy.

Vaccines were mandated for the private sector during the height of the pandemic and the commissioner says it served its purpose in pushing people to get vaccinated.

Mayor Adams added that when it comes to COVID-19, it’s important to shift gears as needed. He adds the city will continue to lead the nation in COVID-19 prevention by lifting mandates strategically.

As the mandates are being lifted, both the mayor and commissioner are still urging New Yorkers to get boosted ahead of the winter season to avoid getting sick.