SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- Mask mandates are returning to the Bay Area beginning Friday. The mandates will only be for the flu season and only for some areas within Contra Costa, Alameda, Napa, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. The mask mandates mostly apply to healthcare workers, but there are a few counties extending the requirement to visitors and patients. Starting Friday, face masks must be worn by workers in hospitals, other health care facilities and skilled nursing homes to prevent the spread of the flu and coronavirus. In San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, visitors must also wear masks. In Santa Clara County, patients will also be required to mask up during their stay. CA leaders rally against mass deportation efforts Limited exceptions to the mandates only apply in a few counties and to young kids. The mandates begin Friday and will last until the end of March or early April 2025. San Francisco, Solano and Sonoma counties are not included in the mandates.