All Brown University Health Facilities in RI and MA Move to Status Yellow Today; Masks Required

Due to high community transmission rates of influenza and other respiratory viruses, Brown University Health will move to respiratory virus status yellow across all facilities (RI and MA), effective Thursday, December 18, 2025.

Under Status Yellow, Level 2 surgical masks are required for patients, visitors, and staff during direct patient care. Staff must wear a Level 2 surgical mask, or an N95 when clinically appropriate, covering the nose and mouth while providing patient care. Masks will be provided to patients’ family members and visitors upon arrival at hospitals and clinics for use in patient rooms.

This precautionary step is based on:

• Rising community respiratory virus rates in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
• A high number of emergency department patients diagnosed with respiratory viral infections
• Increased hospital admissions related to respiratory viral illness, including hospital-acquired infections

Brown University Health also reminds the public that it is not too late to get a flu shot, and encourages everyone to wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when sick to help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.

Brown University Health continues to monitor conditions closely and will adjust safety measures as needed to protect patients, visitors, and staff.

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RINewsToday says “Stay Healthy During Respiratory Virus Season”

• Mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially hospitals, doctor’s offices, and public transit — even when not required.

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly before eating or after gatherings.

• Stay home if you’re sick, even with mild symptoms like a sore throat, cough, or congestion.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow — not your hands.

• Improve indoor airflow – crack windows briefly or use air purifiers if available.

• Avoid close contact with vulnerable people (older adults, infants, immunocompromised individuals) if you’re feeling unwell.

• Keep vaccinations up to date, including flu and COVID boosters, as recommended by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Clean high-touch surfaces like door handles, phones, and kitchen counters during gatherings.

Health officials note that small steps — masking, handwashing, and staying home when sick — significantly reduce the spread of respiratory viruses during peak winter – and holiday – months