Area health systems “strongly recommend” patients begin masking again at hospitals and clinics around Hampton Roads.

In a joint statement this week, the hospitals also asked that people experiencing any respiratory virus symptoms not visit patients at local hospitals.

The announcement comes on the heels of an uptick across the state in viruses like flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

According to the Virginia Department of Health, 9,993 emergency department and urgent care visits last week were for flu-like symptoms. 

COVID cases in Virginia spiked the week after Christmas, and have remained high through January. Last week, 3,307 emergency room and urgent care visits statewide resulted in a COVID diagnosis.

There’s no regional data available on RSV, but cases have climbed over the winter.

Dale Gauding with Sentara said masking measures are precautionary.

“We think that it is strongly advisable for people to take reasonable precautions anytime they’re in a healthcare facility, to protect other people and themselves by wearing a mask,” he said.

Hospitals are also asking that residents make sure their shots are up to date. They say vaccinations are still the best protection from respiratory viruses.

• 
•