Phoenix, AZ – Banner Health, one of the largest non-profit healthcare systems in the United States, will reinstate a mandatory masking policy across all its hospitals and healthcare facilities starting January 1st, officials announced this week. The decision comes in response to a significant and sustained increase in influenza cases throughout Arizona and the broader region.
The temporary policy requires all employees, patients, and visitors – regardless of vaccination status – to wear masks while inside Banner Health facilities. This includes hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and other healthcare-related locations operated by the system. The move aims to protect vulnerable patients and staff from the rapidly spreading respiratory illness, which typically peaks during the winter months.
"We are seeing a significant uptick in flu cases, and our priority is always the safety of our patients and team members," said Dr. Marjorie Bessel, Chief Clinical Officer for Banner Health, in a statement released Tuesday. "Masking is a proven and effective way to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses like influenza, and we believe this is a necessary step to protect our community."
The reinstated mask mandate aligns with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which advises healthcare facilities to implement masking policies when community transmission levels of respiratory viruses are high. Public health officials have warned of a potentially severe flu season this year, citing lower-than-average vaccination rates and the waning effects of immunity from previous infections.
Banner Health's policy specifies that approved masks, such as surgical masks or N95 respirators, must be worn correctly, covering both the nose and mouth. Those who do not have a mask upon arrival will be provided one by the facility. Exceptions to the mask requirement may be made in certain circumstances, such as when a patient is actively eating or drinking, or during specific medical procedures.
The healthcare system emphasized that the masking policy will be regularly evaluated and adjusted based on the evolving influenza situation and guidance from public health authorities. Banner Health will closely monitor flu case numbers, hospitalizations, and other relevant data to determine when it is safe to lift the mask mandate.
This decision marks a return to stricter infection control measures after a period of relaxed protocols following the decline of the COVID-19 pandemic. While COVID-19 remains a concern, the current surge in influenza activity prompted the immediate implementation of the masking policy. Banner Health continues to encourage vaccination against both influenza and COVID-19 as the most effective way to prevent serious illness and hospitalization.
"We understand that masking can be inconvenient, but we believe it is a crucial step in protecting our patients and community during this flu season," Dr. Bessel added. "We appreciate everyone's cooperation in helping us to keep our facilities safe and healthy for all."
Beyond masking, Banner Health urges the public to take other preventative measures to reduce the spread of influenza, including frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick. Those experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider to discuss testing and treatment options. Early treatment with antiviral medications can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
The reinstated mask mandate applies to all Banner Health facilities located in Arizona, as well as those in other states where the healthcare system operates, including Colorado, Nebraska, Nevada, and Wyoming. Information regarding specific facility guidelines and exceptions can be found on the Banner Health website. The organization is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for patients, visitors, and staff throughout the flu season and beyond.
