PITTSBURGH - UPMC, one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, has announced a new policy requiring its staff members to wear masks as part of the organization's Respiratory Viruses Safety Program. The decision comes in response to a recent surge in respiratory virus cases, including Covid-19, influenza, and RSV.

Starting on December 20, all UPMC staff members will be required to wear masks while working in healthcare facilities. The masks are specifically designed to reduce transmission of respiratory viruses in healthcare settings, prioritizing the protection of employees, patients, and visitors.

A spokesperson from UPMC emphasized the importance of this measure, stating, "UPMC is seeing an increase in cases of respiratory viruses, including Covid, influenza, and RSV. To protect the health and safety of our employees, patients, and visitors, beginning Dec. 20, everyone in our health care facilities will wear effective masks which reduce transmission of respiratory viruses in health care settings. We will continue to monitor the number of cases in our communities and adjust our protocols as the situation evolves."

The new policy states that masking will be optional for staff only in areas where patients are not currently present. However, all patients, support persons, visitors, and other members of the public will be required to wear masks in designated areas throughout UPMC facilities. This step is taken to ensure the well-being and safety of all individuals accessing UPMC's healthcare services.

This decision follows the recommendations of health experts and governmental health agencies, urging the importance of mask-wearing in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses. With the advent of the Omicron variant and the approaching flu season, UPMC's proactive approach aims to mitigate the risk of infection within their healthcare facilities.

The UPMC system remains committed to monitoring the number of cases in the community and adjusting protocols as needed. They encourage everyone to stay informed, follow guidelines from health authorities, and prioritize their own health and that of those around them.

As the pandemic evolves, UPMC continues to demonstrate its dedication to ensuring the highest level of protection for its staff, patients, and visitors. The mandatory mask policy serves as a reminder that vigilance and preventative measures are crucial in maintaining a safe healthcare environment.

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