Healthcare Facilities Reinstate Mandatory Masking Amid COVID Resurgence
Johns Hopkins Medicine in Maryland has reinstated mandatory masking for patients, visitors, and employees at all its facilities due to increased hospitalizations from COVID-19, the flu, and RSV. The decision follows a recommendation from the Maryland Department of Health and is based on data showing a combined hospitalization rate exceeding 10 per 100,000 residents. The policy will be in effect on a short-term basis and may be lifted once the hospitalization rate drops below the threshold for two consecutive weeks. Other medical facilities in the state have also reinstated masking or are strongly encouraging its use.
