Mercy Cedar Rapids adjusts masking guidelines

Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids is updating its masking guidelines. Beginning Tues., Oct.4, if individuals are asymptomatic and have not been exposed to COVID within the last 10 days, masks are no longer required in common areas of the main hospital, MercyCare clinics and other Mercy facilities.

Hospital and Hospice House staff will continue to mask in patient rooms, exam rooms or other areas where direct patient care is being provided.

At MercyCare clinics and in other outpatient settings, staff will mask in exam rooms when providing direct patient care if the patient is symptomatic or if the patient prefers a mask.

Masks are encouraged for anyone who is immunocompromised or who has a personal preference. Of course, confirmed COVID-19 patients should continue using approved protocols and PPE.    

These guideline changes are based on decreased levels of COVID transmission in the community, increased levels of immunity in the general population and more effective treatments.

Mercy will continue to monitor and adjust our masking policy based on area transmission rates.