MONROE — Masks continue to be universally required for everyone age 5 and up at all Monroe Clinic facilities regardless of vaccination status or expiration of public health orders. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) specifically notes that its new masking recommendations for fully vaccinated people do not apply to health care settings, and health care facilities should continue to follow infection prevention and control guidance.

Monroe Clinic’s facilities provide care for medically vulnerable patients, including those who are immunosuppressed or too young to be vaccinated. Staff must continue to enforce pandemic-response safety measures to protect everyone in the local hospital and clinics. 

Additional CDC guidelines in place at Monroe Clinic locations include continuing to screen all visitors, practicing physical distancing and limiting the number of visitors. For the most up-to-date information and policies, visit 

monroeclinic.org/coronavirus. 

Monroe Clinic to Host Community Blood Drive

MONROE — The demand for blood products traditionally increases during the summer months while donations decline due to vacations and summer breaks. The national blood supply is experiencing a greater shortage due to reduced donations with the COVID-19 pandemic and decreased blood donation drives.

To help meet the need, Monroe Clinic is hosting a Community Blood Drive on Tuesday, June 29, from noon to 5 p.m. The drive will be hosted at the St. Clare Conference Center on Monroe Clinic’s main campus.

Masks and appointments are required. The last day to donate elsewhere was May 4. Please remember to eat prior to donating and bring a photo ID. 

To sign up, visit www.bloodcenter.org.