PHOENIX, AZ – Banner Health, one of Arizona's largest healthcare providers, will reinstate mandatory masking for all staff, patients, and visitors in its hospitals and clinics starting January 1st, citing a significant surge in influenza cases across the state. The decision comes as health officials are reporting a sharp uptick in respiratory illnesses, placing increased strain on healthcare resources.
The mandate, announced Wednesday, aims to protect vulnerable patients, healthcare workers, and the broader community from the spread of influenza. Banner Health officials emphasized the importance of masking as a proven method to curb transmission, particularly during peak flu season.
"The health and safety of our patients and staff is our top priority," said Dr. Marjorie Bessel, Chief Clinical Officer for Banner Health, in a released statement. "Given the current rise in influenza cases, we believe this is a necessary step to protect everyone within our facilities. We understand masking can be an inconvenience, but it is a simple and effective tool in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses."
The mandatory masking policy will apply to all Banner Health facilities throughout Arizona, including hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers. Individuals will be required to wear a well-fitting mask, such as a surgical mask or N95 respirator, at all times while inside these facilities. The health system will provide masks for those who do not have their own.
The decision mirrors similar moves by other healthcare systems across the country grappling with a resurgence of influenza and other respiratory viruses. Health experts attribute the increase to a combination of factors, including decreased immunity due to reduced exposure during the pandemic, the emergence of new and more transmissible variants, and increased social gatherings during the holiday season.
Arizona Department of Health Services data shows a marked increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) activity in recent weeks. Emergency room visits for respiratory complaints are also on the rise, putting a strain on already stretched healthcare resources. Public 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 your community from influenza," said Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, medical director for disease control at Maricopa County Department of Public Health, in a recent press conference. "If you haven't already, please get your flu shot as soon as possible. It's not too late to get protected."
While Banner Health is mandating masks, other healthcare providers in the state are strongly encouraging them, but haven't yet mandated them. Several are monitoring case counts and hospitalizations closely, signaling that more facilities could follow suit if the situation continues to worsen.
The reinstated mask mandate at Banner Health will remain in effect until further notice, with officials stating they will continually evaluate the situation and adjust policies as needed based on community transmission rates and hospital capacity. The health system encourages everyone to stay informed about the latest recommendations from public health officials and to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory illnesses.
This move comes as the CDC also reports increases in flu activity nationwide. They recommend preventative measures to include vaccinations, frequent hand washing, and staying home when feeling ill. They emphasize that even a mild case of the flu can pose a significant risk to vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
Banner Health operates multiple hospitals and clinics throughout Arizona, serving a large and diverse population. This mask mandate will undoubtedly impact a significant number of patients and healthcare workers, highlighting the ongoing challenges of navigating respiratory illness outbreaks in the post-pandemic era.
