The Health Department has updated its masking guidance for patients and visitors due to a significant increase in flu activity and other respiratory illnesses.
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Cumberland County Department of Public Health has updated its masking guidance for patients and visitors due to a significant increase in flu activity and other respiratory illnesses. Effective immediately, anyone visiting the Health Department who is sick or has symptoms of sickness is required to wear a well-fitting mask. This includes sick or symptomatic individuals who visit any clinic at the Health Department. This includes all off-site public health locations.
All patients with confirmed or suspected acute viral respiratory infection should stay home and away from others until they are fever-free (<100 F° [37.8 C°]) without the use of a fever-reducing medication for 24 hours AND their symptoms are getting better for 24 hours.
Patients should then take added precautions for the next five days. Added precautions may include masking, distancing and/or testing. The Centers for Disease Control respiratory guidance is available here. Household contacts should closely self-monitor for symptoms. Anyone who develops illness should stay home and follow home respiratory isolation guidance.
The updated masking requirement is part of a broader infection control strategy to prevent the exposure and transmission of respiratory viruses to healthcare personnel and patients.
“Masking is a simple, effective way to protect yourself and others,” said Dr. Lori Haigler, Cumberland County Public Health Medical Director. “Combined with vaccination and good hand hygiene, it helps keep our community safe and reduces the risk of transmission.”
Additional preventive measures include:
- Washing hand frequently
- Staying home when sick
- Getting flu and COVID-19 vaccines
In addition, if an individual develops symptoms of measles, call ahead before visiting the Health Department, doctor or emergency room so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to others. With number of measles cases increasing in North Carolina, parents are urged to make sure their children are up to date on all their childhood immunizations, including the measles vaccine. Click here to learn more about the measles symptoms.
For more information about programs and services offered by the Cumberland County Department of Public Health, visit https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/publichealth or call 910-433-3600.