Sentara, which runs health facilities across Northern Virginia, no longer requires its staff, patients, and visitors to wear masks.
The move that went into effect Tuesday comes as health systems see a decrease in COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and flu cases, Sentara said in a news release.
There are some exceptions. Anyone seeking care for a viral illness, such as COVID-19 or the flu, should wear a mask. And health care workers who have treated a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case must wear “the appropriate level of personal protective equipment (PPE) required,” Sentara said.
Sentara facilities will continue to monitor for respiratory illnesses in the community, and infection prevention protocols will continue to be followed.
The firm operates eastern Prince William County’s largest medical facility, Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center in Woodbridge. It also has health clinics, imaging facilities, and doctors and specialists in Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Alexandria, Dumfries, and Stafford.
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