COVID-19 weekly news: May 25-31 2021

Mayo Clinic updates masking, in-person meeting guidance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released guidance on May 13 stating that people who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 do not need to socially distance or wear a mask indoors in most settings. This updated guidance excluded certain environments, including health care facilities.

Brushing off the ‘social rust’ as COVID-19 restrictions ease
As society emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, many are feeling excited yet anxious and awkward about returning to normal life and interacting with others. What used to come so naturally doesn't feel so natural anymore.

Patients now permitted two visitors at Mayo Clinic Health System locations
ALBERT LEA and AUSTIN, Minn. ― Patients are now permitted to have two visitors in inpatient and outpatient settings at Mayo Clinic Health System sites at all southeast Minnesota locations. The change is being made in response to consistently lowered COVID-19 positivity rates in the region and is subject to change should the situation change.

Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast: COVID-19 research and putting data in perspective
The number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in the U.S. continues to decline. However, cases of COVID-19 are increasing in younger populations.

Mayo Clinic Q and A: How different types of COVID-19 vaccines work
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I know COVID-19 has been around now for over a year, but I'm still confused by the different types of vaccines, including messenger RNA and vector vaccines. Can you explain how these vaccines work and the differences between these vaccines?