Eliminating masks and asymptomatic testing raises risk of spread

I am writing in response to your article dated May 17 and titled “Immunocompromised, chronically ill people object to Baltimore hospitals’ decisions to drop masking.” As a patient receiving care at both Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions and the University of Maryland Medical Center, I am deeply troubled by the recent decision to eliminate masking requirements for staff, patients and visitors within these medical facilities. Moreover, the decision to no longer test patients without COVID symptoms for COVID-19 when they are admitted to the hospital is equally concerning.

It is essential to consider the statement made by Dr. Anthony Fauci, who recently highlighted that up to 60% of COVID19 cases result from asymptomatic transmission. Numerous research studies have consistently shown that wearing well-fitted, high-quality masks can effectively prevent the transmission of COVID-19. By eliminating masks and testing, there is a

significant risk of unnoticed asymptomatic spread within the hospital setting. Hospitals and health care professionals have an obligation to protect their patients from hospital-acquired infections, which is why practices like hand-washing are rigorously enforced. Will these practices be abandoned next?

In the interest of transparency and patient safety, it is imperative that these medical facilities regularly publish data regarding hospital-acquired COVID-19 infections and related fatalities. The public should have access to this information, allowing people to make informed decisions about their health care. If the decision to drop masking is truly based on confidence in their preventive measures, then these hospitals should be willing to provide the evidence to support their claims.

Patients must be able to trust that they are entering a safe environment when seeking care at hospitals and medical clinics. Regrettably, due to these recent changes, I no longer feel secure receiving treatment at these medical facilities, and my trust in their ability to protect me has been shaken. It is disheartening to find ourselves in such circumstances.

I sincerely hope that these concerns are taken into serious consideration, and that the well-being and safety of patients remain the top priority. It is crucial to address these issues promptly and take the necessary steps to restore trust in these health care institutions.

— Deborah Santor, Davidsonville