Our region is experiencing high levels of respiratory illness, and protecting the health and safety of our patients, visitors, staff, physicians and community remains our top priority.
To help reduce the spread of respiratory infections and safeguard vulnerable individuals, the Middlesex Hospital Alliance (MHA) is updating its masking guidelines effective December 12, 2025.
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For Whom and Where Masks Are Required
All patients, family/visitors, staff, physicians, volunteers and anyone entering both MHA hospitals in the following areas or situations:
- All clinical areas and departments, including hallways and spaces where patients may be present
- During any direct interaction with patients, including inpatient units, outpatient clinics, Medical Imaging, and the Emergency Department
- If you have symptoms of a respiratory illness such as fever, cough, or sore throat
- When entering or visiting a unit in outbreak
- For patients leaving their room or bed space on a unit in outbreak
- As recommended by care teams
Those not wearing masks in the above situations/locations will be spoken with by staff and compliance is expected.
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Where Masks Are Recommended
Masking is recommended when physical distancing may be difficult, such as in:
- Public waiting areas
- Cafeterias
- Meeting spaces
- Administrative and non-clinical areas
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What You Can Do to Help Protect Yourself and Others
- Clean your hands often, especially when entering and leaving the hospital
- Use hand sanitizer stations available throughout our facilities
- Respect signage and directions from clinical teams in areas with higher infection risk
- Consider wearing a mask even in non-required areas if you’re visiting someone who is medically fragile