UPMC locations will again require masking
In a statement Thursday, Dec. 14, UPMC announced it would again implement face mask requirements beginning next week.
“UPMC is seeing an increase in cases of respiratory viruses, including COVID, influenza and RSV,” the statement read. “To protect the health and safety of our employees, patients and visitors, everyone in our health care facilities will wear effective masks starting Dec. 20.”
UPMC hopes to “reduce transmission of respiratory viruses in health care settings,” including UPMC Passavant in Cranberry Township.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported both a statewide and nationwide increase in cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus — or RSV — and COVID-19.
Of the 67 counties in the state, Butler County currently ranks 19th for influenza cases — with 289 reported through the state Department of Health.
The same report lists the county as 32nd in cases of RSV, with 169 cases reported.
And while hospitalizations for COVID remain “low” in the county, according to the CDC, a 41% increase was reported Monday over last week.
A Nov. 9 report by the CDC reminded the public this “is the first year that there are vaccines to protect against all three of these viruses.”
“These vaccines have been shown to prevent severe disease and can be lifesaving,” it stated. “They can also help ensure you are able to enjoy valuable time with loved ones.”
UPMC previously dropped its masking policy in May — ending a three-year pandemic mandate.
Thursday’s statement made clear the health system would continue to assess its policy as the situation evolved.
“We will continue to monitor the number of cases in our communities and adjust our protocols as the situation evolves,” it read.
