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Customers will have to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination at Chicago restaurants, gyms and more

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Kids and adults wait for their booster or second dose of COVID-19 vaccine at Northwest Community Church in Chicago, Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. Nam Y. Huh / AP Photo

People aged 5 years or older will soon be required to show proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to use a gym, dine or drink inside, or go to an entertainment venue in Chicago, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced.

The requirement goes into effect Jan. 3. In addition to proof of vaccination, people 16 and older will need to provide an ID. that matches their vaccination record. It applies to patrons at indoor establishments where food and drink are served, including bars, restaurants, cafes and even banquet halls and ballrooms that host weddings or other large gatherings.

The mandate does not apply to employees of those businesses, though unvaccinated employees will be required to show a proof of a negative COVID test on a weekly basis.

The mandate does not apply to houses of worship, grocery stores, the city’s airports or food establishments that provide charitable services, like soup kitchens.

Read more: Customers will have to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination at Chicago restaurants, gyms and more