A significant rise in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), is being reported across the country, prompting renewed concerns among health officials and healthcare providers.
Hospitals are experiencing increased patient volumes, and some are even reinstating mask mandates to protect vulnerable populations.
UPMC, a leading healthcare provider in Pennsylvania, originally issued a mask mandate in all hospitals and outpatient areas starting Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, but dialed the mandate back and is now recommending they be worn.
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While not a mandatory requirement, UPMC is strongly encouraging the use of masks to protect vulnerable patients and staff. Masks will be provided to those who need them.
This recommendation applies to all UPMC hospitals and outpatient areas and comes in response to a substantial increase in respiratory illnesses.
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“UPMC closely monitors the spread of respiratory illness in health care settings. We are currently seeing substantial levels of respiratory illness due to several viruses,” the healthcare system announced. “Masking will help to decrease the risk of spreading these potentially serious respiratory illnesses among our patients and staff.”
UPMC is also encouraging visitors who are feeling unwell to postpone their visits if possible.
The increase in cases of respiratory illnesses is attributed to a combination of factors, including waning immunity and the circulation of multiple respiratory viruses simultaneously.
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