By Mackenna Moralez

On the heels of the latest Omicron variant spread, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is pulling back on mask recommendations and requirements.  

COVID-19 infections have dropped to pre-Omicron numbers over the last few weeks. According to NPR, 63 percent of U.S. counties are considered low or medium risk for the transmission of Coronavirus. The number represents roughly 70 percent of the U.S. population. The CDC identifies masking requirements in the three following stages: 

Low:  

• Wear mask based on your personal preference.  

Medium: 

• If you are immunocompromised or high risk 
• If you live with or have social contact with someone that is high risk for severe illness. 

High: 

• Wear a well-fitting mask indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status or individual risk 
• If you are immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness. 

The new mask recommendation applies everyone, not just those who are vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.  

Mackenna Moralez is assistant editor with Healthcare Facilities Today.