Residents of Hampton Roads are witnessing an unusual surge in flu activity this season, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and supplemented by local health surveillance reports. Area hospitals and health care systems are consequently reinforcing masking guidelines and taking stringent infection prevention steps in all care environments, in a bid to safeguard patients, staff, and visitors from the spread of flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Prominent health systems in the region, Riverside and Sentara, have initiated mandatory masking protocols for anyone displaying flu-like symptoms in their facilities. These symptoms include but are not limited to fever, cough, a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, muscle pain, fatigue, chills, and gastrointestinal discomfort such as vomiting or diarrhea. Strict masking regulations apply irrespective of flu vaccination status.
It’s important to remember that while vaccination plays a crucial role in significantly reducing the risk of severe flu illness, it does not guarantee absolute protection. Vaccinated individuals can still contract and transmit the virus, thus masking provides an extra safeguard. It is imperative that patients seeking medical treatment should not delay it because of their symptoms. Masks will be available onsite, and the healthcare teams will guide visitors about the necessary protocols upon arrival.
Other preventative measures against the flu comprise regular hand hygiene, staying home when unwell, proper respiratory etiquette like covering the mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing, and getting the yearly flu shot. Patients are also encouraged to opt for primary or urgent care, keeping emergency rooms available for severe cases. As an added measure of safety, visitors exhibiting flu-like symptoms are advised to reconsider non-essential hospital visits. These enhanced masking guidelines will stay in effect until a noticeable decline in regional flu activity is reported.
Source: https://www.gazettejournal.net/health-systems-begin-requiring-masking-for-flu-like-symptoms/