Spiking COVID-19 cases have prompted five New Jersey hospitals, including Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, to reinstate mask-wearing for all patients, visitors and staff, Hackensack Meridian Health announced this week. The other four are Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, Ocean University Medical Center in Brick, Carrier Clinic in Montgomery and Old Bridge Medical Center. All have returned to pandemic protocols with regard to face coverings.

The decision was made “due to an increase in COVID-19 prevalence in these communities,” according to the health…