Masking FAQs (posted May 18, 2022)

There is an increase of COVID-19 infections from the newest omicron variants, which are highly contagious. As such, masking remains a requirement for all patients, visitors and Johns Hopkins Medicine personnel regardless of vaccination status in all Johns Hopkins Medicine locations, both in clinical and in nonclinical areas.

Because some patients, visitors and even staff members may challenge the need to wear a mask when many social/public settings no longer require them, the following may help to explain why masks are still required in health care settings.

I don’t have to wear a mask in stores, public events, airplanes or government buildings. Why are you requiring me to wear a mask in Johns Hopkins locations?

• The rates of COVID-19 infection are increasing, and hospitalization rates are rising. Some people are becoming very sick, including some who were both vaccinated and boosted.
• Many of our patients and visitors and some of our staff members, including doctors and nurses, have weak immune systems. Having everyone wear a mask provides real protection for everyone.
• There are serious long-term health problems in a substantial proportion of people who develop COVID-19 infection. It is important to minimize the chance of infection in all settings, but particularly in health care settings.
• Our doctors, nurses and other health care personnel are working around the clock to provide high-quality care, and we need to minimize their risk of becoming infected so they can continue to care for all patients who come to our hospitals and other clinical locations.
• We will remove our masking requirements as soon as it safe to do so.
• (For patients) If you have additional questions, please discuss them with your medical provider.

Who must wear a mask?

• All employees, students and other personnel, including vendors and contractors, as well as patients and visitors, must wear a mask in.
• This means that patients and care partners arriving for in-person appointments and procedures must be properly masked.

In what areas must I wear a mask?

• You must keep your mask on in al locations, both in clinical and in nonclinical areas.

What if I do not want to wear a mask?

• You will not be able to enter the building until you wear a mask. You will not be seen by any of our health care personnel, including your doctors and nurses, unless you wear a mask. (Note: There are rare exceptions that can be granted by a medical provider if a patient’s medical condition prevents him/her from safely wearing a mask.)
• If you are in the building and remove your mask, a manager will be contacted to help explain the requirement.
• If you decline to wear a mask, you will be asked to leave.