San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana issued a local health order Wednesday requiring masks for medical staff in health care facilities.
Thus, beginning the first minute of November 1, 2023, the order applies to paid and unpaid facility staff and other health care professionals and does not apply to patients, visitors or people with medical conditions, mental health conditions or a disability that prevents the use of a face covering.
Annually, between late fall and spring, San Mateo County data shows higher rates of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19, among other viral infections that can cause severe respiratory illness.