While most are ditching the mask thanks to the Governor lifting the mask mandate, hospitals are reminding patients and visitors that masks are still required in a health care setting. Local health care organizations like HSHS Medical Group Memorial Health and Southern Illinois University Medicine are asking everyone to do their part to protect vulnerable people. According to medical experts, masking is an important mitigation tool since many that have COVID, may not even realize that they have it.  

With the CDC issuing new recommendations for relaxing mask requirements in many areas, health care employees are still required to wear masks as well in patient care and public areas of health care buildings. 

Health care leaders are also asking the public to treat employees with civility and respect if they are directed to wear a mask. Officials say they appreciate the support they’ve received from the public and need them to continue to support health officials by following masking guidelines.