ND & MN officials react to new CDC mask guidelines

Molly Howell

North Dakota health officials say this week’s CDC decision to ease mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people should convince more people to get the shot.

State Immunization Director Molly Howell says just shy of 52% of residents have received at least one dose of vaccine.  Howell says allowing people to de-mask is further proof the vaccine works.  “I am hoping it shows the confidence experts have in the vaccine.”

The state is shooting for a 70% vaccination rate.  Howell admits reaching so-called herd immunity will be a challenge.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says state will allow people to ditch their masks meant to slow the spread of COVID-19, an announcement that followed new federal recommendations on face coverings. Walz says he will sign executive orders ending the mask mandate he enacted by emergency authority in July. State Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm says she had mixed feelings about the move. She notes that the state is fourth highest in the country in COVID-19 growth and having 61 percent of the population fully vaccinated “is not nearly enough” to hold back the virus. She says the good news is that the new CDC guidance shows that vaccinations are working.

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Altru Health System has announced it will continue requiring patients and visitors to wear masks in its facilities.

Officials say, while CDC guidance may be changing for people vaccinated for COVID-19, the changes do not apply to healthcare settings.