Sonoma County Mandates Masks for Healthcare Workers

Sonoma County has implemented a mask mandate for all health care personnel in patient care areas, effective from November 18 through April 30, due to an increase in respiratory virus-related illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza. This decision, made by interim health director Dr. Karen Smith, aims to protect vulnerable patients as hospitalizations and severe illness are expected to rise during the winter. The mandate applies to all medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, regardless of staff vaccination status. Despite low current COVID and influenza activity in California, public reactions to the mandate are mixed, with some expressing frustration and others supporting the measure as necessary for patient safety. Similar mandates have been enacted in other Bay Area counties, reflecting a regional effort to curb respiratory virus spread in health care settings. Dr. Smith also recommends vaccinations against COVID-19, influenza, and RSV for eligible individuals as a preventive measure.