"Health Alert: Mask Mandates Return as Respiratory Illnesses Surge in DC"
Health officials in the DC area are reporting a significant increase in cases of RSV, flu, and COVID-19 following the holiday season. The Maryland Department of Health is advising healthcare facilities to reinstate mask policies to protect against these respiratory illnesses. The CDC's dashboard indicates high levels of RSV and flu in Maryland and D.C., with Virginia experiencing very high levels. Doctors note that illnesses seem to be lasting longer this season, possibly due to weakened immune systems from COVID isolation and consecutive infections.