In response to a surge in respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and influenza, New York City’s public hospitals have reimposed indoor mask requirements.
The mandate, applicable across the city’s 11 hospitals, 30 health centers, and five long-term care facilities operated by NYC Health + Hospitals, aims to curb the spread of infections among patients and protect healthcare staff.
Preserving Health
According to Dr. Ashwin Vasan, the city’s health commissioner, the mask mandate will specifically apply to areas where patients are receiving treatment. While hospitals are currently managing the increased patient load well, Vasan emphasizes that the mandate is a proactive measure to safeguard the health of medical staff.
Despite a decline in the seven-day average of COVID-19 hospitalizations from 106 on Dec. 20 to 50 on Dec. 25, data from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene suggests a possible reporting delay due to the holiday season.
Concurrently, weekly flu hospitalizations have been on the rise since early October, reaching 696 for the week ending Dec. 23.
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New York Hospitals Silent Amidst Nationwide Mask Mandate Resurgence
NYC Health + Hospitals has not provided an immediate response to ABC News’ request for comment on the reinstated mask mandate.
The move follows similar actions taken by hospitals in at least six states, including California, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin, where masking guidelines have been implemented.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a continual increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, marking the seventh consecutive week of rising numbers and the highest figure since late January 2023.
In addition to COVID-19 and influenza, other respiratory tract infections are also on the upswing. Suffolk County on New York’s Long Island, for instance, has witnessed an increase in pertussis (whooping cough) cases.
In 2023 alone, 108 cases were reported or suspected in Suffolk County, with 100 cases documented since Nov. 28. Notably, the outbreak primarily affects vaccinated children and their parents, with no known hospitalizations reported to date.
As respiratory infections continue to pose challenges, the reinstated mask mandate in NYC public hospitals reflects a proactive stance to mitigate the spread of viruses and ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare professionals.
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