Patients and visitors at Mayo Clinic now need to wear surgical/procedural masks

(ABC 6 News) – Mayo Clinic is asking all patients and visitors to wear surgical/procedural masks on its campuses.

Information was shared on Mayo News Network Wednesday and cited the "growing wave of infection from the omicron variant and the urgent need to strengthen all layers of protection against COVID-19…"

Mayo News Network said "patients and visitors will be offered a Mayo Clinic-provided surgical/procedural mask when they go through the screening process or when they check-in. Patients with unacceptable masks, including those with exhalation valves, gaiters, or bandanas, will be required to wear a medical-grade mask (surgical/procedural, N-95 or KN-95)…"

"Several studies have demonstrated the variability in cloth mask performance. While a high-quality cloth mask may perform similarly to a medical-grade mask, patients and visitors use a wide range of face coverings, making standardization necessary. Single-layer cloth masks, neck gaiters and bandanas are commonly worn, for example, and do not provide optimal protection to help ensure the health and safety of all," Mayo News Network continued.