National Aquarium to require visitors to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination

Starting January 25, the National Aquarium will require all visitors aged 12 and older to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination upon entry.

“With COVID-19 cases breaking records in Maryland, our commitment to the health and safety of guests, staff, volunteers, and animals remains our highest priority,” said Aquarium CEO John Racanelli, in a statement.

“Since the pandemic began, we have grounded our policies and practices in the best available science. This led us to require our own staff and volunteers to be fully vaccinated, and it now compels us to extend that commitment to all who visit. The science is clear: this is singularly the best way to protect public health and reduce transmission of the virus.”

Any vaccine that has been approved by the World Health Organization will be accepted under this policy, including Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson and Johnson. Full vaccination means guests have received a full dosage of an approved vaccine at least 14 days prior to the date of a scheduled visit to the aquarium.

The following are acceptable proofs of vaccination:

• The original, copy or digital photo of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination card or similar document from another state, local or foreign government that clearly indicates the full administration of an approved COVID-19 vaccine;
• Printed record from a vaccine provider;
• Digital record of vaccination from one of the following apps: Clear App, MyIR Mobile, Excelsior Pass, a stored electronic record in a mobile phone wallet

A matching photo ID will also be required for visitors 18 and older. The photo ID must be an official document bearing the name of the individual and a photograph. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, a non-driver government ID card, passport and school ID card.

For visitors with a medical or religious exemption, entry will be permitted with proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of a visit.

Acceptable negative COVID-19 test results must include name, date, type of test, and a clear indication of a negative result for COVID-19; and come from lab-run polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or rapid antigen test. At-home test results won’t be accepted.