Abdelrahman
UPMC Implements Mask Mandate Amid Rising Respiratory Virus Cases
Starting Wednesday, all UPMC Health System locations, including the Warwick Township hospital situated at 1500 Highlands Drive, will enforce a mask requirement in response to an increase in respiratory virus cases. This decision comes as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV infections are on the uptick, as indicated by the health system’s recent announcement.
Patients, visitors, and staff must adhere to this mask policy until further updates are provided.
Updates from Other Key Health Systems in Lancaster County
Lancaster General Health
A representative from Penn Medicine, Marcie Brody, mentioned that while masking is strongly encouraged in specific areas — such as emergency departments, waiting rooms, and hemodialysis units — it is not mandated. However, staff members are urged to wear masks when delivering direct care due to elevated rates of respiratory illnesses, including influenza.
Penn State Health
At Penn State Health, masks are mandatory in designated areas that cater to high-risk patients, particularly immunocompromised individuals. The health system’s masking guidelines are influenced by the circulation of respiratory viruses and the counsel of their infectious disease experts.
WellSpan
Although WellSpan has yet to respond to inquiries regarding its mask policy, their website outlines that visitors must wear masks if they are visiting someone suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19, within ten days after exposure, while meeting with an immunocompromised patient, or in areas requiring a mask due to critical patient care measures. Additional guidelines are in place for staff returning to work after testing positive for COVID-19 until symptoms are completely resolved.
For ongoing updates and further information from the local health systems, stay informed through their official channels and community announcements.
