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COVID Safe Maryland
@covidsafemd.bsky.social
250 followers 11 following 170 posts
Marylanders working to stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2. We organize for disability justice from an anti-racist, pro-queer & trans standpoint. #KeepMasksInHealthcare

linktr.ee/COVIDSafeMD
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PUBLIC HEALTH GUIDANCE RECOMMENDS MASKS IN HEALTHCARE:

The MD respiratory virus hospitalization rate is updated on Fridays. Yesterday's numbers continue to keep us above the threshold at which @MDHealthDept recommends universal masking in healthcare.

tinyurl.com/3cx7um4b
Screenshot of the Maryland Department of Health page on universal masking recommendations. The current Maryland weekly respiratory virus-associated hospitalization rate is 10.8, and the previous week's is 19.7. Both are outlined in red. There is a key in the lower left corner that states green indicates less than 5.0 admission per 100,000, yellow indicates 5.0 to 10.0, and red indicates 10.0 and greater.
January 13, 2024 at 3:23 PM
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UPDATE: Johns Hopkins Medicine emailed patients this morning that universal masking will be reinstated in all of their locations in MD, effective tomorrow. hopkinsmedicine.org/coronavirus/...

We urge JHM to maintain universal masking at all times, not only on a short-term basis.
Due to Increased Hospitalizations, Universal Masking Will Resume at JHM Locations in Maryland Dear Patient, Throughout the fall and winter seasons, we have closely monitored respiratory virus updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and departments of health in states where Johns Hopkins Medicine health care facilities are located. Respiratory illnesses--including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus continue to rise — resulting in increased hospitalization rates, while vaccination rates remain low among the general population. Considering this information and recent guidance from the Maryland Department of Health, we will resume mandatory masking for patients, visitors and employees in all Johns Hopkins Medicine locations in the state of Maryland, regardless of vaccination status, effective 1/12/2024. We anticipate this requirement to be in effect on a short-term basis while influenza-like illness rates are high. You can check our website...
January 11, 2024 at 3:49 PM
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We urge each Maryland legislator to safely start their Session today by wearing well-fitted, high-quality masks while on the grounds. MD is in the highest #COVID19 wave since Jan 2022 and the respiratory virus hospitalization rate has been Very High. #MDGA24
Logo of Maryland state capitol next to white, yellow, and black text that reads "Maryland General Assembly"
January 10, 2024 at 11:47 PM
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Dr. Roselie Bright, COVID Safe MD member and epidemiologist, spoke to WYPR about local hospitals not following current health department guidance for masks in healthcare settings during the latest COVID surge.

wypr.org/wypr-news/20...
“If you get COVID, while you're in the hospital, you're twice as likely to die of it than if you got it somewhere else, or came in with it,” said Roselie Bright, an epidemiologist with COVID Safe Maryland. “That's why we think it's especially important to protect vulnerable people because they are there in the healthcare space.”
January 4, 2024 at 1:42 AM
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Reminder: We are hosting a coworking space during our weekly action meeting TONIGHT, Thursday, December 28 from 5:30 - 7:00 pm ET to complete the survey.

Link to register in bio
White paper texture background with black text and yellow highlights. Share your story: The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is calling for community input on the “most important issues affecting the health and wellbeing of [our] communities.” Feedback from this assessment will inform MDH’s programs over the next several years. This is a critical time to share our stories: MDH needs to hear how the absence of COVID-19 protections and resources continues to harm the health of everyone, particularly members of the disabled community. Take the survey by Jan 4: bit.ly/HealthierMD23 (link in bio)
December 28, 2023 at 9:17 PM
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NEWS: CalvertHealth will require masks in its facilities beginning tomorrow, Friday, December 29.
Screenshot of a pop-up that displays when you go to the CalvertHealth website. It displays a blue surgical mask and reads, "Face masks required. Due to the spike in respiratory illnesses and for the health of our community, masking is now required as of December 29, 2023. Health system-issued masks will be provided upon entry. Thank you in advance for your understanding."
December 28, 2023 at 8:07 PM
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If you’re looking for a coworking space, we’re hosting a phonebank action on Tuesday, Dec. 26 at 5 pm. Thank you so much ❤️

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Dark green background with white text. "Looking for a coworking space? Join us on Tuesday, Dec. 26 from 5-6 PM ET to make calls together. Registration link in bio"
December 23, 2023 at 10:51 PM
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We also need your help advocating for masks in healthcare! We have a crucial opportunity to fight the spread of COVID in healthcare settings right now and we need all the help we can get. Use our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit (link in bio) for ways to get involved.

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Dark green background with white text. "While we're chatting, did you know most hospitals in MD are NOT requiring masks? Even though we're covid levels are high. (1) Even though COVID hospitalizations are up. (2) And even though state department of health guidance says they should be. (3)" Dark green background with white text. "Shouldn't our hospitals keep us safe? Our heart breaks for every patient who seeks care during the holidays, only to catch COVID at the hospital. We have a chance to change this >>>" Dark green background with white text. "Be a patient advocate. Use our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit to call and email your local hospitals to demand they instate respirator protections. tinyurl.com/MarylandMasks Link in bio" Dark green background with white text. "Sources: 1. CDC COVID-19 NWSS Wastewater Monitoring in the US, www.CDC.gov/nwss/rv/COVID19-nationaltrend.html 2. RESP-NET CDC Interactive Dashboard, www.health.maryland.gov/phpa/Pages/resp-virus-metric.aspx 3. Current Maryland Weekly Source Control Metric for Healthcare Settings, www.health.maryland.gov/phpa/Pages/resp-virus-metric.aspx"
December 23, 2023 at 10:50 PM
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If you are sick, stay home from gatherings. What may seem like a "mild" infection could change someone’s life forever. It is not worth it. And to the choir we’re preaching to, thank you for helping us share this important message.

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Dark green background with white text. "For whoever needs to hear this: if you are sick, stay home. If you cannot stay home, wear a mask."
December 23, 2023 at 10:49 PM
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🚨 10 MINUTES AWAY 🚨

COVID hospitalizations are up in Maryland and despite guidance from the Department of Health, hospitals have not updated their masking policies.

Today we’re taking action by calling hospitals and urging them to keep our communities safe while in their care.
Black background with white text reading “Take Action for Masks in Healthcare | Phonebank Today | Friday, Dec. 22 | Noon - 1 PM ET | Join us as we contact our Maryland hospitals in support of universal respirator protections in all healthcare settings. | Registration link in bio”
December 22, 2023 at 4:53 PM
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Join us tomorrow, Friday, December 22 from noon - 1:00 pm to make calls together.

Link to register: us06web.zoom.us/meeting/regi...

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Looking for a coworking space? Join us on Friday, Dec. 22 from noon - 1:00 pm ET to make calls together. Link to register in bio.
December 21, 2023 at 10:46 PM
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Use our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit to call and email your local hospitals and care providers. Use our script to demand they follow the Maryland Department of Health's guidance.

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The guidance may only be in effect for a short window of time, and we cannot afford to wait. We have to act now to ensure everyone is protected over the upcoming holidays: Use our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit to call and email your local hospitals and care providers and demand they follow the Maryland Department of Health’s guidance. tinyurl.com/MarylandMasks
December 21, 2023 at 10:46 PM
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🚨 CRITICAL ACTION 🚨

The MD Dept of Health is currently recommending universal masking in healthcare, but we have seen very few hospital systems update their policies.

Cases are surging, and their inaction will cause avoidable harm.

We need our community to take action! 👇

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Black gradient backgrounds over a photo of a hospital hallway. Graphics contain white text and yellow highlights. "Important Update | An increase in hospitalizations due to respiratory viruses has triggered MD Dept. of Health guidance for universal mask use in healthcare settings BUT most healthcare systems in the state have not updated their masking policies. | Take Action Now"
December 21, 2023 at 10:45 PM
covidsafemd.bsky.social
Looking for a coworking space?

Join us this Friday, Dec. 22 from noon - 1 pm ET for a phonebanking session.

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White background with navy blue text and navy blue accents. “Masking in Healthcare Phonebank Action | Friday, Dec. 22 | Noon - 1 pm ET | Join COVID Safe Maryland as we contact our local hospitals in support of universal respirator protections in all healthcare settings.”
December 20, 2023 at 10:51 PM
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Now is the time to take action!

Use our toolkit at tinyurl.com/MarylandMasks to call and email our major state hospital systems and urge them to institute masking requirements for staff, patients, and visitors.

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White background with navy blue text and a navy blue banner for the title and URL link. ”Take Action for Masking in Healthcare | As of Dec. 20, most major hospital systems in Maryland have not updated their masking policies, including: -Johns Hopkins -University of Maryland Medical System -MedStar Health -Holy Cross -& more Wastewater data has consistently shown high levels of COVID in our region, and with the upcoming holidays pushing more people to gather indoors, this is a critical time for COVID protections to be in place in healthcare settings. We are calling on hospital systems and healthcare providers to take immediate action to stop the spread of COVID. Here’s how you can join us: Use our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit to call your local hospitals to demand they follow the Maryland Department of Health’s guidance. tinyurl.com/MarylandMasks” White background with navy blue text and a navy blue banner for the title and URL link. “MD Masks in Healthcare Call Script | “Hello, I am a patient calling to share that I am concerned your facility is not following masking guidance from the Maryland Department of Health. Last week, the Maryland Respiratory Virus​-Associated Hospitalization Rate​​ exceeded 10 per 100,000 residents. Therefore, the Department of Health recommends that broad facility-wide source control be implemented in all patient care areas and patient-facing healthcare settings, including outpatient and long-term care.” | For contact information for Maryland Hospital Systems, email scripts, and more view our Masks in Healthcare Action Toolkit: tinyurl.com/MarylandMasks”
December 20, 2023 at 10:50 PM
covidsafemd.bsky.social
The guidance was triggered because last week, the rate of respiratory virus hospitalizations was 12.9, exceeding the 10 per 100k threshold.

However, most major hospital systems in Maryland have NOT updated their masking policies to reflect this guidance.

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White background with navy text and a navy banner for the title. “Maryland Department of Health Masking in Healthcare Guidance Update | Maryland Department of Health guidance states that broad facility-wide source control (i.e. universal masking) should be “implemented in all patient care areas and patient-facing healthcare settings, including outpatient and long-term care, when the statewide combined weekly respiratory virus-associated hospitalization rate (as calculated by CDC​) meets or exceeds 10 hospitalizations per 100,000 residents.” Last week, the hospitalization rate hit 12.9 per 100,000. According to their guidance, broad facility-wide source control “can be discontinued once the combined weekly respiratory virus-associated hospitalization rate has been below 10 hospitalizations per 100,000 residents for two consecutive weeks.”” Screenshot of the Maryland Department of Health’s Current Maryland Weekly Source Control Metric​ for Healthcare Settings dashboard displays the rate.
December 20, 2023 at 10:49 PM
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🚨 IMPORTANT UPDATE 🚨

The MD Department of Health's guidance *CURRENTLY* recommends universal mask use in all healthcare settings. Learn more about why the guidance was triggered, which hospital systems are following the guidance, and what action you can take

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Navy blue background with white text and brown highlights. Three small megaphones line the top of the text. “Maryland Department of Health Currently Recommends Masking in Healthcare Settings Dec. 20, 2023”
December 20, 2023 at 10:47 PM
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We are advocating for long-term change in our communities. If you are in Maryland, please complete the MD Dept of Health’s State Health Assessment survey and share how COVID has impacted your health and well-being.

You can find the survey at bit.ly/HealthierMD23

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Black background with white text. Advocate for Resources. The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is currently calling for community input on the “most important issues affecting the health and wellbeing of [our] communities.” MDH needs to hear how the absence of COVID-19 protections and resources continues to harm the health of everyone, particularly members of the disabled community. Take the survey: bit.ly/HealthierMD23 (Link in bio)
December 14, 2023 at 2:10 AM
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Wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask is our strongest tool for breaking chains of COVID transmission and protecting our communities. Roughly 60% of COVID cases are asymptomatic, so it's important to wear one even when you are not experiencing symptoms.

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Black background with white text. Take action to stop the spread of COVID-19. Wear a mask when indoors or in crowded outdoor spaces to protect yourself and others. Inform your loved ones that COVID levels are on the rise and encourage them to take precautions as well.
December 14, 2023 at 2:09 AM
covidsafemd.bsky.social
In November 2023, the CDC recorded 4,628 COVID deaths. Every single one was preventable.

Our elected officials and public health leaders are failing us. It is up to each of us to take action to protect ourselves and our communities.

Ways you can take action right now 👇

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Black backgrounds with white text. In the United States, 4,628 people* died of COVID in November. *That we know of. Source: CDC COVID Data Tracker, 2023.
December 14, 2023 at 2:08 AM
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For a complete list of sources, visit tinyurl.com/CSMDLayers

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Red background with elements along the top and bottom: black, blue, neon green, and white wavy lines, a blue, neon green, and white gradient rectangle, a purple mask, and a neon green virus. Sources | For a full list of sources, visit: tinyurl.com/CSMDLayers
December 10, 2023 at 1:25 AM
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By using multiple layers of protection — such as wearing high-quality, well-fitting masks, improving air quality, avoiding crowded spaces, testing, and getting vaccinated — we can lower transmission levels and make our communities safer for everyone.

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Light purple background with elements along the top: a purple squiggle, a rainbow iridescent rectangle, and four purple to red to yellow gradient ovals. The corresponding image from slide 2 is pictured on each slide. Vaccination | Should you get infected, vaccines help you avoid getting very sick, being hospitalized, or dying during the acute infection. To a lesser degree, vaccines also reduce your chances of developing long COVID. It’s important to always get the newest COVID vaccine because it is designed to target the variants that are currently circulating. | Source numbers: (7), (8), (9) Mustard yellow background with elements along the top: a purple triangle with a translucent pink striped overlapping triangle, a red scribble, and a wavy silver metal wire. Why We Need To Use Multiple Layers of Protection | We cannot rely on only one protective measure because no single tool is 100% effective at preventing the spread of COVID. | The more layers we use, the fewer opportunities the virus has to spread, and the less likely it is that we contract COVID. Avoiding spreading COVID is important because COVID can have lasting health impacts on anyone — regardless of their age, how healthy they are, or the severity of their acute infection. COVID is an airborne virus, and we all share the same air. We need to work together to reduce the amount of COVID in the air so it’s safer for everyone.
December 10, 2023 at 1:25 AM
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COVID is airborne, meaning it transmits through the air we breathe. We all share the same air, so we need to work together to reduce the amount of virus in the air. COVID can have lasting effects on anyone — regardless of age, health, or severity of acute infection.

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Light purple background with elements along the top: a purple squiggle, a rainbow iridescent rectangle, and four purple to red to yellow gradient ovals. The corresponding image from slide 2 is pictured on each slide. Avoiding Crowded Spaces | Crowded spaces have been shown to increase the transmission of the virus that causes COVID. This can happen for several reasons, such as close contact, an increased chance that someone in the space might be contagious, and worse air quality. It’s best to limit time in crowded spaces as much as possible and use other layers of protection when you cannot. | Source numbers: (5), (6) Seafoam green background with elements along the top: an iridescent scalloped circle, a purple, yellow, and orange gradient rectangle, and yellow squiggles. The corresponding image from slide 2 is pictured on each slide. Testing | Testing can help you detect when you have a COVID infection and should avoid being around others. If you have symptoms, get tested immediately. If you’ve been exposed to COVID, wait five full days after your exposure to test. You can also use testing to make informed decisions about your risk of spreading COVID to others, especially high-risk individuals. Reminder: While a positive result is almost always accurate, a negative result is less reliable. | Source number: (7)
December 10, 2023 at 1:24 AM
covidsafemd.bsky.social
Relying on only one layer of protection is not enough because no single layer is 100% effective at preventing the spread of COVID. The more layers we use, the fewer opportunities the virus has to spread, and the less likely it is that we contract COVID.

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Light purple background with elements along the top: a purple squiggle, a rainbow iridescent rectangle, and four purple to red to yellow gradient ovals. The corresponding image from slide 2 is pictured on each slide. Wearing a Well-Fitting, High-Quality Mask | Consistently wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask helps lower the spread of COVID by filtering the virus particles we might inhale from or exhale into the air. The most effective masks are N95, KN95, KF94 or higher. Surgical and cloth masks offer the least protection against COVID. A well-fitting mask should cover your mouth and nose, provide a seal around your face, and feel breathable. | Source numbers: (1), (2) Seafoam green background with elements along the top: an iridescent scalloped circle, a purple, yellow, and orange gradient rectangle, and yellow squiggles. The corresponding image from slide 2 is pictured on each slide. Improving Air Quality | Improving air quality through ventilation (moving air into, out of, and or within a room) and filtration (trapping particles on a filter to remove them from the air) has been shown to reduce COVID transmission. You can improve the air quality by using an air filtration device (e.g. air purifier, HVAC, Corsi-Rosenthal box), opening a window, or moving activities outdoors. | Source numbers: (3), (4), (5)
December 10, 2023 at 1:23 AM
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As COVID cases surge due to the cold weather and the holidays, now more than ever is the time to increase our COVID safety measures by using multiple layers of protection.

Read on to learn more about each of the layers of protection available to us.

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All designs mimic the 2023 Spotify Wrapped graphics. Text is black on all slides, with “@COVIDSafeMD” written in the bottom right corner. Red background with elements along the top and bottom: black, blue, neon green, and white wavy lines, a blue, neon green, and white gradient rectangle, a purple mask, and a neon green virus. Layers of Protection | Using multiple layers of protection is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from the spread of COVID-19. Learn more about the types of protection you can use and why we cannot rely on only one layer to prevent infection. Mustard yellow background with elements along the top: a purple triangle with a translucent pink striped overlapping triangle, a red scribble, and a wavy silver metal wire. Layers of Protection | 1. [Image of white mask on yellow background] Wearing a well-fitting, high-quality mask 2. [Image of air purifier with arrows showing the particles going in and clean air coming out on light blue background] Improving air quality 3. [Image of colorful silhouettes crossed out by a white X] Avoiding crowded spaces 4. [Image of COVID rapid test and swab on a pink background] Testing 5. [Image of gloved hands holding a syringe inserted into a vial] Vaccination
December 10, 2023 at 1:22 AM