Brown University Health is putting mask requirements back in place at its Rhode Island facilities, including Newport Hospital, due to high levels of respiratory viruses in the community.
Starting January 22, patients, visitors, and staff must wear Level 2 surgical masks during direct patient care at all Brown University Health locations in Rhode Island.
A press release from Brown University Health explains, “Staff will wear a Level 2 surgical mask or N95 when appropriate, covering their nose and mouth while providing patient care. We’ll give masks to family members and visitors when they arrive at the hospital or clinic, or in patient care areas for use in patient rooms.”
The health system’s Massachusetts locations aren’t adopting this policy right now. They’re sticking to Massachusetts Department of Health and local guidelines instead.
Brown University Health is also asking the public to take steps to prevent illness. These include:
- Staying up-to-date with vaccinations and boosters
- Washing hands often
- Staying home when sick
- Improving air circulation indoors
For non-urgent medical issues, the health system suggests contacting your primary care doctor before heading to urgent or emergency care. Urgent care centers are a good option for common illnesses and injuries in patients 18 months and older.
It’s best to save emergency departments for life-threatening conditions like severe injuries, heart attacks, or strokes.