CentraCare to Continue to Require Masks

(KNSI) – CentraCare Health will continue to require masks even though the statewide mask mandate has ended.

The medical facility says COVID-19 is not yet eradicated, and people who are not vaccinated are still at risk.

A press release from the St. Cloud based medical provider states all employees, patients, and visitors are required to wear a mask when in a CentraCare or Carris Health facility.

CentraCare says people must remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19, which continues to sicken people in the St. Cloud area.

CentraCare is awaiting additional guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before making any changes.

Following new guidelines from the CDC stating those fully vaccinated don’t need to wear a mask, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order on Friday that effectively ended the state mask mandate.

However, private institutions, schools, and businesses can still require masks.

As a result of this week’s emergency use authorization for the Pfizer vaccine, COVID-19 vaccinations are now available for children ages 12 and older.

Scheduling for anyone under the age of 18 needs to be coordinated through CentraCare Connect at 320-200-3200.

Online scheduling for 18 and older can be done through CentraCare.com.

CentraCare is also offering walk-in vaccine clinics at CentraCare South Point, located at 3001 Clearwater Rd in St Cloud, on Tuesday, May 18, and Wednesday, May 19, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Pfizer vaccine will be available on both dates for anyone 12 and older.

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