Target to require workers to mask up in areas where Delta variant is surging

Target is joining some of the nation's largest retailers in changing its mask policies in parts of the U.S. facing another wave of COVID-19 infections linked to the so-called Delta variant.

Minneapolis-based Target said Monday that, starting August 3, it will require all store workers in counties that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says faces a "substantial or high risk of transmission" to wear face coverings. The big-box retailer, which has more than 1,900 stores, also said it will continue recommending that customers wear masks in its locations, but stopped short of requiring face coverings. "We'll follow all local mandates, as we have throughout the pandemic, and continue to monitor guidance from the CDC closely," Target said in a notice posted on its website. "We will also maintain all of our health and safety protocols that include increased cleaning measures and social distancing."