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Masking Policy for Patients and Visitors at Yale New Haven Health

At Yale New Haven Health, the safety of our patients, visitors, and staff is our top priority. During times of increased respiratory virus activity, masking is an important tool in reducing the spread of illnesses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Our masking policies are designed to protect everyone while allowing flexibility in most situations.

The current masking guidelines may change based on public health needs. Below are the policies for patients and visitors.

Current Masking Guidelines

Effective January 15, 2025

While patients and visitors are not required to wear masks in most settings, masks are required or recommended in the following situations:

  • Patients with respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, fever, runny nose) should wear a mask in all ambulatory areas (such as clinics, imaging, or therapy rooms) whenever possible.
  • Visitors who feel unwell or show symptoms of a respiratory infection (such as cough or fever) are kindly asked to postpone their visit.
  • Inpatients on isolation for a respiratory illness must wear a mask when being transported to another part of the hospital.
  • Visitors to patients on isolation must follow the hospital's Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) policies as directed by the signage posted outside patient rooms.

Masks will be readily available at entrances and throughout our hospitals for patients and visitors who need or wish to wear them.

Where Masks Are Optional

Patients and visitors are not required to wear masks in:

  • Common areas such as lobbies, hallways, cafeterias, and waiting rooms.
  • Non-clinical areas such as hospital gift shops, public meeting spaces, or while accompanying a patient in non-isolation care areas.
  • Behavioral health and rehabilitation areas unless otherwise specified by your care team.

If you feel more comfortable wearing a mask in any area, you are welcome to do so. Our staff is always prepared to provide masks as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a mask during my visit?

In most cases, masking is optional. However, if you have respiratory symptoms or are visiting a patient on isolation precautions, you will be asked to wear a mask for everyone’s safety.

Can I bring my own mask?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own mask. If you do not have one, we provide masks at all hospital and clinic entrances.

What should I do if I feel sick before my visit?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or congestion, or if you have been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 10 days, please contact your care team before your visit. They will provide guidance on whether you should reschedule or take additional precautions.

Why aren’t all visitors required to mask?

Masking policies are based on guidance from our Infection Prevention team and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We focus on targeted masking during high respiratory virus activity while allowing flexibility in areas where the risk is lower.

Why Masking Matters

Masking is a simple but effective measure to reduce the transmission of respiratory viruses, especially for vulnerable individuals. We ask that all visitors respect the masking policies outlined here and comply with any instructions given by our staff to protect patient health.

If you have questions or need assistance during your visit, please ask a member of our staff.

Getting Ready for Your Visit to Yale New Haven Health