Masking Guidance
Due to increased circulation of respiratory illnesses (influenza, RSV, COVID), UI Health is requiring masking in all patient-contact areas. This requirement is effective beginning Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 3 pm.
Masks are REQUIRED for all employees within areas where patients are present. It is recommended that masks be worn in shared workrooms, cafeteria, and meeting rooms, but not required.
Masks are REQUIRED for all patients and visitors when entering the Hospital & Clinics but may be lowered when necessary for patient care or eating/drinking. For example, oral or nasal exam, exercise stress testing, physical therapy, sleep studies, or pulmonary function testing, the staff member should remain masked, but the patient may unmask (this list is not all inclusive).
Masks are REQUIRED for all inpatients when staff enters the room, and curtains should always be drawn in shared patient rooms.
UI Health Masking Guidance
Effective Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 3 pm, masking is REQUIRED in all patient contact areas for staff, patients, and visitors. This includes:
- Hospital/inpatient care areas
- Clinic rooms/outpatient care areas
- Clinic registration and waiting areas, including the Emergency Department waiting area
- Hallways, elevators, stairwells
- Hospital Atrium
Additionally, masking is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED in the following areas:
- Cafeteria/Taylor Street Café/OCC Café
- Meeting rooms
- Team rooms
- Break rooms
The following seasonal infection-prevention recommendations remain available to protect ourselves and others:
- Vaccinate (when appropriate) to decrease the risk of severe disease or death.
- Wash your hands often
- Do not come to work if you are sick; if sick, speak with your doctor.
