Inova Ends Universal Mask Requirement For Visitors, Patients At Medical Facilities

NORTHERN VIRGINIA — Masking is now optional at all Inova hospitals and medical facilities, although masks will still be required in certain areas with patients who are at high risk for severe illness if they develop COVID-19.

The new policy, which went into effect Monday, ends the mask requirement at Inova facilities that went into effect in March 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Masking has been an important tool to stop the spread of COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, but after thoughtful consideration of several factors, including high levels of immunity, CDC community levels and availability of effective treatments, we have determined that it is safe to discontinue our universal masking requirement,” Inova said in a statement.

The high-risk spaces at Inova facilities where masks will still be required include the adult oncology unit, the transplant clinic, all neonatal intensive care units, and all newborn nurseries. Inova said it will re-evaluate its selection of high-risk spaces “as circumstances warrant.”

Inova also instructed patients to follow their doctor’s masking instructions. If a patient or visitor is exhibiting active respiratory symptoms, they will also be asked to wear a mask, the health care system said.

Also, patients or their representative may request that Inova medical care providers and other employees wear a mask while in a patient room or immediate patient care area.

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