Walt Disney World announced Wednesday it will end the practice of taking temperatures for guests before entering parks beginning this weekend.
- “Following the advice of the CDC and our local health officials, we will phase out onsite temperature screenings at Walt Disney World Resort for cast members beginning May 8 and guests on May 16,” according to Walt Disney World’s website.
- “We will continue to follow the guidance of health and safety leaders going forward and most importantly encourage people to get vaccinated.”
- Face masks will still be required at the Magic Kingdom. However, guests can remove the masks for eating, drinking and taking photos and in specific areas.
Universal Orlando makes changes, too
Universal Orlando Resort announced it would end the same practice. The theme park said it would also reduce social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet, according to Fox Business.
- Face masks will still be required at Universal, per Fox Business.
Florida opens up. What does that mean for Disney World?
The changes to Walt Disney World come after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he wants Florida to open up. Per CBS News, DeSantis said he will suspend all COVID-19 mandates and outlaw any local COVID-19 mandates in order to help people return to normal.
- DeSantis said he wants Florida residents to “enjoy themselves” and “live freely in the state of Florida.”
Walt Disney World said in a statement that it was unclear about changes it would make if Florida opened up.
- “Today, Florida announced plans regarding COVID-19 guidelines. Our health and safety measures are the same for now, including face-covering requirements.”
- “We are aware of the state of Florida’s plans announced today to modify COVID-19 guidelines. We will evaluate this latest guidance and maintain our current health and safety measures at this time, including face-covering requirements.”