In response to an increase in respiratory viral infections in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, UC Health is once again requiring all employees and clinicians to wear masks when interacting with patients.
The new mask policy goes into effect Monday and is scheduled to end around spring, after respiratory disease season ends, when the virus that causes respiratory illnesses circulates more heavily within the community, UC Health said. said in a statement.
Areas within UC Medical Facilities affected by the policy change include inpatient rooms, patient exam rooms, registration areas, front desks, and health unit coordinator desks at nursing stations. Employees will also be required to wear disposable paper masks when transporting patients within UC Health hospitals.
Employees are encouraged, but not required, to wear masks in nursing stations, cafeterias and lobbies where they do not interact with patients.
“It is our duty to protect all patients, including the most vulnerable, and this measure is an important step in preventing the spread of diseases, including but not limited to influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus. ” the statement reads.