FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sonoma Valley Hospital Updated Mask Policy & Vaccine Recommendations
October 17, 2023 – As fall and winter approach, the Sonoma County Public Health Officer has issued an order requiring all health care facility staff in patient-facing areas to wear masks. In accordance with this order, Sonoma Valley Hospital is instituting a new mask policy requiring masks in all patient-care areas, including the lobby, beginning on Monday, October 30, 2023. Masks are also now required for visitors and during any in-person indoor meetings at the Sonoma Valley Hospital campus.
Why are we re-instituting masks? Last fall and winter showed us how the confluence of various respiratory viruses can produce a significant increase in the burden of respiratory illness in our community. Preventing transmission through masks is a key mechanism for decreasing this burden.
In addition, we recommend that members of the Sonoma Valley community receive the updated COVID vaccine booster and an annual flu shot. The COVID booster is for all individuals over the age of 6 months who do not have contraindications. If feasible, we suggest staggering the COVID booster and flu shot to avoid cumulative side effects from the shots.
We know that mask and vaccination fatigue are real phenomena, but as we step into fall and winter, these preventive measures can save us considerable suffering. Thank you for cooperating with these guidelines.
By Dr. Sujatha Sankaran, Chief Medical Officer, Sonoma Valley Hospital
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Dawn Castelli
Manager, Community Outreach & Marketing
Sonoma Valley Hospital
Phone: 707.931.9206 Email: dcastelli@sonomavalleyhospital.org
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