Randolph Health lifts masking requirements

ASHEBORO — Randolph Health has lifted its mask mandates for all of its facilities.

The mandate was lifted on March 28 not only for the local hospital but for all regional healthcare systems, including Novant Health, Atrium Health, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, CaroMont Health and Cone Health. 

Randolph had required universal masking for patients, visitors and team members. The use is now optional for those who want to or feel the need to continue to mask up.

As encouraged during the COVID-19 pandemic and flu season, everyone should consider their personal risk when considering masking. Patients may request their care teams to wear masks during treatment and clinic visits. 

While universal masking will no longer be required, certain exceptions apply, including wearing masks when respiratory virus symptoms are present and in treatment areas for high-risk patients, including those in isolation. 

As the threat from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu and RSV evolve, Randolph Health will routinely assess risks to patients, visitors and team members. Should additional protection be needed, Randolph Health may implement safety guidelines, including updating visitor restrictions, masking requirements and encourage vaccines. 

Anyone experiencing respiratory virus symptoms is encouraged to help control the spread of the illness by not visiting patients in the hospital. Symptoms include fever, headaches/body aches/pain, cough or sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. 

To reduce the risk of contracting a respiratory illness, health care systems recommend frequent handwashing with soap or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; not touching eyes, nose or mouth with the hands; and getting an annual flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine and/or recommended boosters.