Gundersen Health System is prohibiting face masks with vents

While health experts are promoting the use of masks to contain the COVID-19 epidemic, Gundersen Health System is stating that not all masks are equal.

Gundersen officials say while all patients, visitors and staff entering a Gundersen location are required to wear a mask or face covering that covers the mouth and nose, masks with exhalation vents are unacceptable.  They say masks with vents do not effectively reduce the risk of transmitting infection to others, which is the primary reason to wear a mask.  

Any patients, visitors or staff wearing a mask with exhalation vents will be asked to switch to an acceptable covering. Examples of acceptable coverings include bandanas, surgery masks, cloth face coverings, dust masks and N95 masks without vents.  If patients or visitors do not have another type of covering with them, they will be given one during their entrance screening.