Janice R. Andrews
Face mask mandates are making a quiet return in hospitals across the United States due to rising concerns over a “quad-demic” of flu, COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and norovirus. These four viral infections are spreading rapidly, resulting in over 15 million cases and 30,000 deaths so far this winter. In response, several healthcare systems are adjusting their protocols to mitigate the spread of these illnesses.
Hospitals Adjusting to Surge in Respiratory Illnesses
As cases of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus surge, major hospital networks like Duke Health in North Carolina and Mass General Brigham in Massachusetts have updated their masking and visitor guidelines. Hospitals across multiple states, including California, Illinois, and New York, have followed suit by enforcing or strongly recommending mask-wearing in patient areas.
In North Carolina, Duke Health hospitals and clinics are now strongly advising the use of masks in patient areas, and some units have instituted stricter PPE requirements for high-risk patients. Mass General, which serves millions of patients through its 12 hospitals and clinics, has escalated its respiratory virus activity status to “high,” mandating masks for hospital staff and encouraging patients and visitors to wear them as well.
A spokesperson for Duke Health explained, “In consultation with our infectious disease experts, we felt it was necessary to update our visitation restrictions and mask guidelines to address the rising number of respiratory illnesses.”
Growing Number of Mask Mandates Across the U.S.
The reinstatement of mask mandates is not limited to just a few hospitals. Across the country, numerous healthcare systems are implementing stricter measures to curb the spread of respiratory viruses. Wisconsin’s Aurora Health Care, which serves 1.2 million patients annually, will begin enforcing a mask mandate for patients and visitors in patient rooms starting next week. Similarly, RWJBarnabas Health in New Jersey, which sees 3 million patients a year, has also reinstated mask requirements for all visitors.
In Illinois, the OSF HealthCare network, with 10 locations across the state, is requiring staff, patients, and visitors to wear masks. Rush University healthcare system, which includes two medical centers and a hospital, has implemented similar policies. “With the increase in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases, it’s critical that we follow these enhanced precautions,” said a representative from Rush University.
Indiana’s Union Health has also asked patients and visitors to wear masks and has imposed tighter visitation restrictions due to the rise in flu and RSV cases. Certain units are requiring patients with respiratory symptoms to wear masks immediately upon presentation to any of Union Health’s locations.
Local Mask Mandates in California and New York
California is seeing similar responses. In San Francisco, all workers in skilled nursing facilities are required to wear masks, and in counties like Alameda and San Mateo, healthcare staff and visitors are also mandated to wear masks in patient areas. In San Mateo, the mandate extends to visitors as well.
New York has also implemented mask requirements for healthcare workers who have not received the latest flu vaccine. This rule applies to healthcare settings where flu activity is prevalent. “The goal is to limit the spread of the flu in healthcare facilities and protect our most vulnerable populations,” stated Dr. James McDonald, New York’s State Health Commissioner.
Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Nationwide
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that respiratory illness activity is currently at “high” levels across the U.S., with flu and RSV cases peaking. COVID-19 remains a concern but is less widespread. According to the CDC, flu-related emergency visits have jumped significantly, making up 5.2% of all hospital visits by the end of December, compared to just 1% in November. Hospitalization rates for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 have also seen an uptick.
From October 1 to December 14, the CDC reported over 9 million cases of flu, 60,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths. During the same period, COVID-19 caused 4.9 million cases, 130,000 hospitalizations, and 15,000 deaths. RSV contributed to 60,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths.
Norovirus Surge Adds to the Concern
In addition to the rising levels of flu, RSV, and COVID-19, norovirus has seen a significant spike. This stomach virus is circulating at the highest levels for this time of year since 2012. The CDC has reported 91 outbreaks of norovirus in December, up from 69 the previous week. Norovirus is highly contagious, and the CDC estimates it infects around 21 million Americans each year, resulting in 465,000 emergency department visits and 900 deaths annually.
The combination of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus has put immense pressure on healthcare systems, leading to the reimplementation of mask mandates as a preventive measure. “Masking has proven to be one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of these viruses,” said Dr. Anne Schuchat, a former CDC director. “Given the surge in cases, it is critical that we take these precautions seriously.”
Masking as a Protective Measure
Mask-wearing remains one of the most effective methods for preventing the transmission of respiratory illnesses. Experts are urging the public to wear masks, especially in indoor or crowded settings, and to follow health protocols to help protect vulnerable populations.
Hospitals and health systems across the country are emphasizing the importance of mask mandates to reduce the strain on healthcare facilities and minimize the spread of viruses. As flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus continue to rise, healthcare workers, patients, and visitors are encouraged to follow local guidelines to keep everyone safe.
What’s Next for Mask Mandates?
As the quad-demic continues to impact the U.S., health authorities will closely monitor viral trends and may implement further restrictions depending on how cases evolve in the coming weeks. While it’s uncertain whether mask mandates will be lifted or expanded, it’s clear that they remain an important part of public health strategies.
For now, mask-wearing, vaccination, and other preventive measures are crucial in curbing the spread of these viruses. Experts are encouraging the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them.
Conclusion
The resurgence of mask mandates across the U.S. in response to a “quad-demic” of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and norovirus highlights the ongoing battle to control viral infections. With hospitalizations rising, experts continue to emphasize the importance of masking and other preventive measures. As the flu season progresses, mask mandates will likely remain a critical tool in minimizing the impact of these respiratory viruses.
