On April 3, 2023, the Washington state Secretary of Health Mask Order requiring universal masking in healthcare facilities was discontinued. Recognizing the ongoing importance of masking in these spaces to protect the health and well-being of patients and employees, the Acute Infectious Disease Masking Workgroup was formed. This workgroup consists of infectious disease and public health subject matter experts (SME) representing the major healthcare systems and jurisdictions in our regional coalition and whose goal was to establish an approach to universal masking in healthcare facilities.
Read the 2025-2026 consensus statement here HERE
“We have seen the regional health care and public health leaders join together in coalition since the onset of COVID-19. The initial consensus statement on masking and the further update focused on strengthening our communities and protecting our patients, staff, and vulnerable populations. This collaborative effort highlights our region’s dedication to implementing policies based on science and best practices.” – Vicki L. Sakata, MD, FAAEM, FAAP, Senior Medical Advisor, Northwest Healthcare Response Network
For more background to this effort, previous statements are available from March 2023, June 2023, and September 2023, October 2024 and 2023-2024 Respiratory Summary.
The Acute Infectious Disease Masking Workgroup continues to monitor COVID-19 and other respiratory virus activity closely.
Media inquiries about the Northwest Healthcare Response Network please contact pio.hecc@nwhrn.org (monitored during business hours).
Please contact healthcare facilities directly for media inquiries or statements regarding their organizational involvement or masking policies.