Federal mask guidelines evolve to better protect workers

With nearly 300 million U.S. made N95 or equivalent respirators sitting in warehouses, the federal government altered its mask guidelines this month to better protect workers. The Food and Drug Administration recommended health facilities transition away from the practice of decontaminating and reusing N95 respirators, a practice the agency authorized during the pandemic when masks and other personal protective equipment were in short supply. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also revised its guidelines, saying, “Once N95 respirator availability returns to normal, health care facilities should promptly resume conventional practices.” (KHN article, 4/14/21)