Universal Masking to Resume at JHM in Maryland

Please read this important message sent by JHU Admin regarding masking updates on JHM campuses. Thanks

To the Johns Hopkins Medicine community in Maryland

Dear Colleagues,

Throughout this respiratory illness season, we’ve remained vigilant to ensure the health and safety of our patients, colleagues and community. We have closely monitored respiratory virus updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as those from departments of health in states where Johns Hopkins Medicine health-care facilities are located. High rates of respiratory illnesses — including COVID-19, influenza and flu-like illness — continue to increase across the nation, resulting in rising hospitalization rates. At the same time, vaccination rates for COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus remain low among the general population.

Considering this latest data and recent guidance from the Maryland Department of Health, we have determined that the following changes will be made to the masking requirement in Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in the state of Maryland, effective 1/12/2024. These changes are intended to prevent viral transmission in clinical areas, and to protect patients and staff members. The approach aligns with guidance from the Maryland Department of Health, as well as measures from the University of Maryland Medical System, other area hospitals, and health systems across the nation.

Masking

Effective 1/12/2024, universal masking will resume for all staff members, patients and visitors in all Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in the state of Maryland. Masking is required in clinical settings and any areas where interaction with patients and the public may occur. Masking is required regardless of vaccination status. Masking is strongly recommended, but not required, in conference spaces, offices, areas where one is unlikely to engage with a patient or the public, and common cafeterias.

There are no restrictions on gatherings or events.

To decide when universal masking in health-care facilities is warranted, the Maryland Department of Health analyzed weekly hospitalization rates due to COVID, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and other forms of respiratory illness. We anticipate this requirement to be in effect on a short-term basis while viral respiratory illness rates are high. We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust the requirement and precautions as appropriate. Please watch for follow-up communications on policy updates.