OLYMPIA — The mandate requiring masks in health care facilities, extended-care facilities and adult correctional institutions will end April 3. The end of universal masking in those facilities was announced in a Friday press release from the Washington Department of Health.

“In Washington, COVID-19, RSV and influenza disease rates have continued to decline since the end of last year,” the press release said. “Department of Health infection prevention and control guidance continues to recommend masks for patients, healthcare providers and visitors in health care settings.”

The DOH rule will end April 3, but other jurisdictions may decide to keep other rules in place, the release said.

“Local or tribal governments, facilities and providers may choose to continue to require masks in other settings,” it said.