Cascade Masking Update
Given the infectiousness and reach of the omicron variant, we’re offering a small refinement to how we understand the Cascade in-person gatherings.
The overall plan/policy of continuing in-person/hybrid service, with required masking & distancing, is unchanged.
This revision addresses what we mean by "masking." More specifically this recommendation, is to encourage and provide medical-grade masks.
First, some definitions
- "Face covering" refers to use of any facial garment that securely covers the nose and mouth, whether made of cloth, or medical fabric intended for use by health care workers (HCWs). This does not include gaiters/garments that do not securely attach on the chin.
- "Mask" is a subcategory of "facial coverings," and means masks that are designed for use by HCWs in professional settings. These include common surgical masks, as well as N95s.
- "N95/KN95" are a subcategory of masks, and mean medical-grade masks that are specifically designed and individually fitted to filter particles in inhaled air.
Science/Policy Thoughts
As we know, the good news is that the omicron variant is less virulent than delta, alpha, and others. So on average we can expect people who contract COVID to become less sick (especially those who are vaccinated and most especially those who are boosted).
Benefits of using medical-grade masks
Cloth/non-medical-grade masks are less effective at filtering the tiny particles and respiratory secretions that transmit the virus, so their use poses added risk of spreading the virus (infected person) and of acquiring it (uninfected person).
Therefore, there's considerable benefit to using medical-grade masks (rather than cloth face coverings), especially in this era of increased contagiousness.
The benefit conferred by N95 masks would be even greater, as compared to other medical-grade masks.
Relevant policies
My perspective is that current policies are a bit out of date, but it's important to discuss them anyways.
Current CDC guidelines (notably, dated Oct 2021) suggest that N-95 masks should be prioritized for Health Care Workers. Notably, does not seem to include medical-grade masks that are non N95s (ie, standard surgical masks), which are more effective than cloth masks and seemingly can be used by all, in accordance with current CDC guidelines
OHA's official policy requires "masks" (ie, surgical grade masks) or "face coverings" (including cloth masks) for indoor public gatherings, but i also found this OHA public recommendation that suggests that actual medical-grade masks are required (this might be a typo, but it is nonetheless very clearly laid out in this official document). I have not found evidence from OHA suggesting that medical-grade masks should be reserved for HCWs.
The above can be summarized as: everyone should be masking indoors, including with medical-grade masks, and there is not consensus on whether it's appropriate to recommend N95 for non-HCWs.
Summary
We are now recommending and will be offering medical grade masks (KN95, N95) at Cascade for in-person gatherings.
We are moving ahead with this shift because we are unable to find evidence that a PPE shortage exists in the US right now (although the supply chain may still be fragile). We’re mindful that, as with most things, PPE supply is still dynamic.
Please be aware that (1), this could change; and (2) this is beyond the CDC's current guidelines.
Contact sarah@cascadepdx.org or kurt@cascadepdx.org with any further questions.
January 9,2022