Red Cross Updates Safety Measures to Align with CDC Guidance

On May 21, the American Red Cross implemented the latest COVID-19 mask guidelines released from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

As more and more people have become vaccinated and the number of COVID-19 cases significantly drops, the country has reached an important milestone in the battle against the pandemic. The following Red Cross safety guidelines are now in effect:

• Fully vaccinated blood donors and Red Cross training class participants will no longer need to wear a mask or socially distance. The CDC defines "fully vaccinated" as two weeks after receiving the second of a two-dose vaccine, or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. If someone wishes to continue wearing a mask, they may do so.
• Non-vaccinated blood donors and class participants will continue to be required to wear a mask and socially distance for their safety and the safety of those around them.
• During a disaster, following CDC guidance for congregate shelters, the Red Cross will continue to require shelter residents to wear masks in our shelters – regardless of vaccination status – to ensure the safety of our workforce and those we serve.
• The Red Cross will follow more stringent guidance in areas where state and/or local guidance, including business and workplace guidance, differ from the most recent CDC guidelines and OSHA direction. 

For more than a year, the entire nation has dealt with enormous difficulty and change. We thank everyone for their continued support during these trying times.