"Mask Mandates Reinstated in Hospitals Nationwide as Respiratory Illnesses Surge"
Several states, including New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin, are reinstating mask mandates in hospitals due to a rise in COVID-19 and flu cases. The mandates are focused on patient care areas to protect both patients and medical workers. This comes as hospital admissions for COVID-19 and influenza have increased nationally, with the CDC reporting a significant rise in hospitalizations and flu activity. Health officials emphasize the importance of masking in reducing transmission, while the CDC provides guidelines for informed decision-making regarding mask use. Not all medical professionals agree on universal mask mandates, with some advocating for targeted use in high-risk settings.
