As the new year unfolds, Banner Health has imposed a mask mandate across all its facilities, effective today, January 1, in response to a worrying spike in flu cases. The healthcare provider has determined that anyone entering its facilities—be it patient, visitor or staff member—must don a mask, especially when in patient areas. However, patients have the luxury to go mask-free within their own hospital rooms, but masking up in common areas is still strongly encouraged. The information rolled out by both FOX 10 Phoenix and 12 News echoes the same sentiment: that with flu cases on the rise, preventive measures are crucial.
The initiative by Banner Health comes on the heels of Maricopa County health officials reporting a staggering 75% increase in flu cases in a single month, treating 666 instances of the ailment. This decision isn't just about numbers, though. "Our top priority is to protect our patients, staff, and the communities we serve by reducing the spread of the virus," told Banner Health Chief Clinical Officer Marjorie Bessel to FOX 10 Phoenix. With the flu vaccine's efficacy not entirely aligned with the dominant strain, masking up has become an interim shield until more robust defenses come into play.
However, apart from the mask mandate, Banner Health has also introduced visitation restrictions. Children under the age of 13 are now barred from visiting, unless they are visiting new babies on the Obstetrics unit, where they'll undergo screening by staff prior to being allowed entry. Also, if you're feeling under the weather with symptoms like fever, cough, or digestive distress, it's best to refain from visiting altogether. These additional protocols, confirming to a statement obtained by 12 News, will be upheld until March 31 as part of the seasonal visitor restrictions.
For those who may not have brought their own, masks will be available at all public entrances of Banner facilities. This small yet significant provision is a gentle reminder that the safekeeping of the community lies in the hands of each individual's efforts. Beyond simply grabbing a mask at the door, Banner Health underscores the importance of common preventive measures—like hand washing and staying abreast with recommended vaccines. These steps, as outlined by Marjorie Bessel in an interview with FOX 10 Phoenix, are particularly vital for protecting high-risk groups, such as the elderly, the immunocompromised, individuals with multiple health conditions, and the very young.
