Several Chicago area hospital systems have reinstated mask policies due to an increase in cases of respiratory viruses and new recommendations from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
At least four health systems, encompassing more than 20 hospitals, numerous medical offices and urgent care facilities, have implemented partial or complete mask mandates, citing an uptick in COVID-19, influenza and RSV.
The changes in policy follow guidance issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health earlier in December, urging that masks be worn in health care facilities. As a result of the rise in respiratory illnesses, IDPH encouraged health care facilities across the state to implement mask policies in patient care areas, especially if caring for those with weakened immune symptoms.
“With the alarming rise in respiratory viruses we are seeing across the state and the country, IDPH is recommending healthcare facilities take precautions to reduce the spread of these viruses and protect their patients, staffs and visitors,” IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in the news release. “We are most concerned with healthcare facilities in counties with elevated respiratory virus transmission and hospitalization levels and recommend masking in patient care areas, especially in emergency departments and areas caring for patients who are immunocompromised.” Several Chicago area
As of the most recent publicly available data, 10 counties in Illinois have been identified with a high level of COVID-19 hospitalizations over the past week, a trend that persisted from the previous week.
In response to the ongoing situation, Endeavor Health, a health system comprising NorthShore University HealthSystem, Northwest Community Healthcare, Swedish Hospital, and Edward-Elmhurst Health, has updated its masking policy effective Tuesday, December 26. The revised policy mandates that both patients and visitors wear masks when exhibiting any respiratory symptoms. Additionally, patients in specific high-risk areas are strongly encouraged to wear masks, with the health system indicating that visitors to these areas may be asked to wear masks as well.
These measures align with guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) as part of broader efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, particularly in areas with elevated hospitalization rates. It’s important to stay updated with the latest information from health authorities as the situation continues to evolve.