NORFOLK, Va. — All the health groups serving the Hampton Roads region are strongly recommending that people wear a mask when visiting medical facilities amid a rise in respiratory illnesses.
The recommendation came Thursday from Bon Secours, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Riverside Health System and Sentara Health.
It was addressed to all patients and visitors, including those seeking outpatient services, visiting hospitals, medical facilities and physician practices.
The health groups attributed their recommendation to a sharp rise in cases of the flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory illnesses.
According to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), reported COVID-19 cases jumped by roughly 300 in just one day this week. Dr. Elizabeth Broderick with the Children’s Clinic said cases could be even higher than that with many people testing at home.
“There is no little note on your home test that says, ‘Gee, you should report this to your state health department,'" Dr. Broderick explained.
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The latest report from the VDH shows nearly 1,500 cases of the flu for the week ending on Jan. 13. Data shows roughly 12% of patients are 4 years old and younger.
“If you are under the age of 5 or over the age of 60, if you have any type of heart or lung disease, diabetes, any kind of immune compromise, flu can put you in the hospital," Dr. Broderick explained.
The VDH said this flu season, two children have died from the virus or its complications.
“Two is two too many. It’s never alright when a child dies," Dr. Broderick said.
Even those who have gotten their flu shot and are up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines are also asked to wear a mask for additional protection.
"Vaccinations are the best prevention available but are not 100% effective," the health groups wrote in a news release. "Masking provides an added layer of protection from respiratory illnesses, even for those who have been vaccinated."
Dr. Broderick said while masks may be uncomfortable, you should wear one in crowded areas. She said with the high activity of respiratory illness in our area, the more protection you have, the better.
“I would rather bear the discomfort in a grocery store wearing a mask than be miserable at home for five days," she said.
To limit the spread of respiratory illnesses, people are encouraged to wash their hands frequently, stay home when sick, get vaccinated, and cough into sleeves or tissues. Those who have respiratory illness-like symptoms are asked to stay home and not visit patients at area hospitals.
The health groups will also offer masks and hand sanitizer at facility entrances for people to use. The recommendation will stay in effect until reports of respiratory illnesses drop from elevated levels.