Starting Jan. 1, Arizona’s largest hospital system will require all patients, visitors and staff to wear masks in response to a surge in flu cases.
Banner Health announced Wednesday it will temporarily require masks at all of its facilities. Patients will not have to wear masks in private hospital rooms, but will be asked to wear them in other areas. Masks will be provided at entrances to Banner facilities.
“This measure is necessary because older patients and those with immunodeficiencies are at heightened risk and these extra precautions will help safeguard our most vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Marjorie Bessel, Banner Health chief clinical officer. “The flu kills tens of thousands of people each year.”
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, The number of flu cases in Arizona is currently below the five-year average. But the virus is spreading fast. The number of cases reported in the state last week was a 90% increase over the previous week.
Outside of medical facilities, Banner Health is also encouraging Arizonans to consider masking in airports, or other crowded places. And Banner is recommending other precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, including regular handwashing, staying home if you’re feeling sick, and keeping up-to-date on flu vaccines.
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