Stratton VA Updates Its Masking Guidance
PRESS RELEASE
January 12, 2022
Albany , NY — Based on data from an internal risk assessment in response to the current Omicron COVID-19 Variant, new masking guidance at the Stratton Medical Center and its CBOCs was developed to maximize safety and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
As cases of COVID-19 surge across the country, the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center has adopted new masking guidance for anyone entering the Stratton VA Medical Center and/or any of its Community Clinics. The revised guidance requires anyone coming into the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center and its Community care clinics wear, at a minimum, a medical procedure mask. VA Employees will continue to follow their specific policies as directed by the agency.
The change in guidance excludes the use of cloth masks including gators, neckerchiefs, vented masks, and others that have not been found as effective in mitigating the spread of disease. This is especially important as newer variants emerge, which are proving to be more contagious. Vaccination, appropriate masking practices, hand hygiene, and social distancing continue to be the best mitigation control factors against the spread of COVID-19.
A medical procedure mask will be provided upon entry to anyone in need.
Peter Potter, Public Affairs Director
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