PHOENIX, AZ – Citing a significant uptick in influenza cases across the state, Banner Health, one of Arizona's largest healthcare providers, will reinstate a mandatory masking policy for staff and visitors effective January 1st. The decision comes as hospitals and clinics throughout the region are experiencing increased patient volumes, largely attributed to the seasonal flu.
The return of mandatory masking marks a shift from the more relaxed policies that have been in place for much of the past year as COVID-19 restrictions eased. Banner Health officials stated the move is a necessary step to protect patients, healthcare workers, and the broader community from the spread of respiratory illnesses.
“We are seeing a substantial rise in influenza cases, putting a strain on our resources and impacting our ability to provide timely care,” explained Dr. Marjorie Bessel, Chief Clinical Officer for Banner Health, in a prepared statement. “Masking is a proven and effective method to reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses, and we believe this policy is crucial to safeguarding the health and well-being of everyone within our facilities.”
Under the reinstated policy, all employees, patients, and visitors will be required to wear medical-grade masks while inside Banner Health hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. The mandate applies regardless of vaccination status. Individuals who arrive without a mask will be provided one at the entrance.
Banner Health operates 33 hospitals and numerous clinics throughout Arizona, as well as in other western states. This widespread impact underscores the seriousness with which the healthcare provider is taking the current flu surge. While the masking policy is currently limited to Banner Health facilities, it could potentially influence other healthcare systems in the state to follow suit if the flu season continues to intensify.
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has also reported a significant increase in influenza activity in recent weeks. The agency’s weekly influenza surveillance report shows a sharp rise in positive flu tests and hospitalizations, mirroring the trends observed nationally. Health officials are urging residents to take preventative measures, including getting vaccinated against the flu, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home when sick.
"Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and others from the flu," stated Cara Christ, Director of the ADHS, in a press release. "We strongly encourage all Arizonans six months and older to get a flu shot as soon as possible."
The masking policy at Banner Health is being implemented proactively to help mitigate the potential impact of the flu season on the healthcare system's capacity. The increase in flu cases coincides with the ongoing presence of other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), further compounding the challenges faced by healthcare providers.
While some individuals may find the return of mandatory masking inconvenient, health experts emphasize the importance of such measures in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Masks act as a barrier, preventing respiratory droplets from traveling through the air and infecting others. Studies have consistently shown that masking, when implemented correctly and widely, can significantly reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses.
Banner Health will continue to monitor influenza activity and adjust its policies accordingly. The duration of the mask mandate will depend on the severity and trajectory of the flu season. Updates and any changes to the policy will be communicated to the public through Banner Health's website and other communication channels.
The healthcare provider hopes that by taking these proactive steps, they can minimize the impact of the flu season on the community and ensure that resources are available to provide optimal care to all patients. They also encourage the public to get their flu shots and practice good hygiene to protect themselves and others. The goal is to minimize the spread of illness and maintain the ability to deliver quality healthcare services during this challenging time.
