CDC updates masking guidance; patients cleared to wear N95s

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention yesterday broadened its masking guidance, enabling visitors of health care facilities to wear N95 masks. Politico had reported confusion with the previous guidance, suggesting it may have prompted some hospitals to ask patients and visitors to wear surgical masks, rather than patients’ own N95s. CDC now says patients and visitors should “use the most protective form” of face covering that fits well and will be worn consistently; facilities can offer surgical masks but “should allow the use of a clean mask or respirator with higher level protection by people who chose that option based on their individual preference.”