Masks Required Again At Ocean University Medical Center In Brick

BRICK, NJ — All patients, visitors and staff at Ocean University Medical Center have to mask up upon entry, as Hackensack Meridian Health has reinstated a mask mandate.

The hospital in Brick was one of four in the Hackensack Meridian Health Network where the mask requirement has returned. Also affected are Southern Ocean Medical Center, Old Bridge Medical Center, and Riverview Medical Center, along with the Carrier Clinic.

"This decision was made due to an increase in COVID-19 prevalence in these hospitals, facilities and communities. The health and safety of our team members and patients has always been and continues to be our number one priority," Hackensack Meridian Health spokesperson Jessica Cohen Nussman said.

Masking is strongly encouraged, but not required at the network's other hospitals and facilities.

The COVID-19 restrictions are listed on the hospital's website.

Hospitalizations due to COVID-19 remain low statewide, according to New Jersey Department of Health data. But data also shows that coronavirus cases have been increasing over the past few months.

The state recommends that anyone who has not gotten a COVID-19 vaccine in the past two months get an updated one to prepare for fall and winter. You can find locations at vaccines.gov.