BALTIMORE — Johns Hopkins Hospital has announced a new mask requirement for all visitors at its hospitals and doctors' offices, effective immediately. This decision aligns with similar measures taken by LifeBridge Health and the University of Maryland Medical System.
The Maryland Department of Health reported in December that the hospitalization rate for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, the flu, and RSV, has surpassed 10 per 100,000 people in certain areas, prompting the need for enhanced safety protocols.
Dr. Miriam Alexander, a physician at Sinai Hospital, emphasized the importance of these precautions, stating that visitors should refrain from coming to the hospital if they exhibit any signs of respiratory infections. She also encouraged all visitors to wear masks while in the facility.
Many hospital visitors have already been wearing masks, with some expressing their support for the measure. One visitor noted, “I’d rather be safe than sorry; I’ll wear my mask all day if I have to.”
Dr. Alexander indicated that the return of mask mandates during the winter months may become a recurring practice, as respiratory infections tend to rise during this time of year. She stated, “We do believe we will always continue to see respiratory infections as we always have throughout the winter months.”
Johns Hopkins has indicated that the mask requirement is expected to be temporary, adjusting as the rates of respiratory illnesses fluctuate.
Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR 2 News (source).
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