PHILADELPHIA (AP) — As COVID-19, RSV, and flu cases surge, a Philadelphia hospital system is implementing additional safety measures to protect patients and staff. Penn Medicine announced that starting Monday, all individuals aged two and older will be required to wear masks in specific departments, including the emergency and waiting rooms.
In an effort to curb the spread of the virus, Penn Medicine’s new policy mandates mask-wearing for everyone, regardless of vaccination status. This precaution applies to both visitors and healthcare professionals entering the specified areas. The decision comes as hospitals across the region experience an alarming rise in cases.
In addition to Penn Medicine, other prominent healthcare systems in the area, such as Main Line Health and Cooper University Health Care, have also revised their mask policies due to the increasing number of infections. The surge in cases has compelled these institutions to reassess their approach and prioritize the safety of their patients and staff.
The revised mask policies aim to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19, RSV, and flu in healthcare settings. By requiring universal mask-wearing, hospitals intend to provide an additional layer of protection to individuals who may be vulnerable or immunocompromised. Visitors who have tested positive for COVID-19 or exhibit symptoms will continue to be prohibited from entering the facilities, even if they are wearing masks.
As the delta variant continues to fuel a relentless wave of infections, hospitals are doubling down on their efforts to minimize the spread of the virus. The new mask requirements in Philadelphia reflect the increasing urgency to control the transmission and protect those seeking medical care.
Penn Medicine’s updated mask policy serves as an example of proactive measures taken to address the mounting challenges posed by the current surge in infections. By implementing stringent mask mandates in high-risk areas, the hospital system aims to safeguard patients, visitors, and healthcare workers from potential exposure.
With COVID-19, RSV, and flu cases on the rise, the requirement for masks in designated areas of Philadelphia’s hospitals will help mitigate the spread of these infectious diseases. The new policy emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding public health.