April 17th COVID Update
It is with great pleasure that we get to announce that Hennepin County has remained at a Moderate community transmission level for the past two weeks. If community transmission levels are less than high, and sustained for two weeks or greater, facilities can choose to not require universal masking.
At this time, masks are NOT required for staff, residents or visitors. Of course, as always, individuals can always choose to wear a mask if they please.
Even during times where universal masking is not required, masking would still be recommended for:
- Suspected or confirmed COVID or other respiratory infection
- Had close contact or a higher risk exposure with someone with COVID-19, for 10 days after their exposure; or
- Reside or work in an area experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak (may be discontinued after 14 days of no new cases)
WILL UNIVERSAL MASKING EVER RETURN?
Yes, it is possible and likely. The following scenarios would dictate a transition back to universal masking for all staff, residents, and visitors (and eye protection for staff with resident care):
- Community transmission reaches a HIGH level. The transmission level will be evaluated each Wednesday of each week to determine if there is a need to return to masking.
- If there is an identified outbreak within the facility among staff or residents.
- If the health department has otherwise identified a need to resume universal masking.
HOW WILL RESIDENTS, STAFF, AND VISITORS KNOW IF THEY NEED MASKS?
Signs are located at the entrances of the building and the floor’s front desks currently indicating the current status of masking if we are currently in a time where masks are REQUIRED or OPTIONAL.