Philly Health Systems Implement New Mask Rules for Safety
TL/DR –
Four health systems in the Philadelphia area have instated new mask requirements due to a rise in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and flu cases. The health systems, Cooper University Health Care, Jefferson Health, the University of Pennsylvania Health System, and Main Line Health, have implemented various rules such as mandatory mask wearing in patient rooms, during patient-facing activities, and in clinical and common areas, in addition to restrictions on visitors who have tested positive for COVID-19. The Philadelphia Health Department has reported an increase in respiratory virus activity since November but is not currently planning a mask mandate.
Philadelphia Area Hospitals Implement Mask Requirements
In response to increasing cases of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and the flu, four Philadelphia area health systems have implemented new mask mandates.
Cooper University Health Care Mask Rules
Starting from Jan. 5, Cooper University Health Care is enforcing mask-wearing in patient and exam rooms for visitors and staff. As mentioned on Cooper’s website, the policy change is in response to rising COVID-19 hospitalizations in Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester counties.
Jefferson Health’s Updated Mask Guidelines
From Jan. 6, Jefferson Health will require staff at patient-facing locations to wear ear-loop masks until Jan. 29. Patients in emergency departments, urgent care centers, and other high-risk areas must also wear masks, as well as those exhibiting viral respiratory symptoms. Pediatric patients will be evaluated for measles exposure and MMR vaccination status.
University of Pennsylvania Health System Mask Protocol
Starting Jan. 8, the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS) requires masks during all patient-facing activities and anywhere patients may be encountered. Patients or visitors who tested positive for COVID-19 or show symptoms within the past 10 days will not be allowed entry, even with a mask.
Main Line Health Mask Guidelines
Main Line Health began enforcing mask-wearing at various sites on Jan. 4, requiring all patients, employees, medical personnel, and visitors to wear masks in clinical and common areas.
Spike in Respiratory Illnesses in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Health Department reports a rise in respiratory virus activity including COVID, flu, and RSV since November. According to the CDC, flu activity is high in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and RSV and COVID-19 levels are elevated and increasing in some regions. However, the department is not considering implementing a mask mandate.
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