N.J. hospitals ask visitors to mask up as winter viruses spread

As respiratory illnesses grow in New Jersey, hospitals need masks for visitors, patients, and staff. Experts say winter brings more people indoors, making infections easier to spread.

Visitors to Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey’s largest hospital network, were required to wear masks on December 1. The 18 hospitals and hundreds of service centers stated this protects frail patients and lowers seasonal infections. The group warned that respiratory virus season is coming and that masks protect hospital patients.

RWJ Barnabas Health, a 14-hospital state hospital system, changed its masking rules. Hospital personnel and patients must now wear masks outside their rooms. Near patients, visitors must wear masks. The system suggests optional outpatient and medical group masks.

Several New Jersey hospitals may need masks for respiratory infections. Health professionals say these steps prevent needless hospitalizations per evidence.

RSV, flu, and COVID-19 have hospitalized more persons in recent weeks. Despite reduced ER visits, official surveillance data shows rising catastrophic hospitalizations. COVID-19 and flu hospitalizations predominantly impact seniors. Adults 65 and older and children 0–4 are most at risk of RSV.

Doctors forecast increased cases owing to holidays, cold weather, and disease-spreading indoor gatherings. Public health specialists believe masks keep hospital visitors safe but can’t replace immunizations or hygiene.

In winter, New Jersey hospitals will observe patterns and alter safety protocols to safeguard patients and the community.

Sources:
State respiratory illness surveillance data
Statements and policies from New Jersey hospital systems