UPMC said it's bringing back masks to try and curb the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, the flu and RSV. Patients, visitors, support persons and staff will be requir

UPMC is bringing back a mask requirement, saying, "We are currently seeing substantial levels of respiratory illness due to several viruses."

Due to a recent rise in COVID and other respiratory illnesses, UPMC is "strongly encouraging" patients and visitors to wear masks in all of its facilities.

Citing “substantial levels of respiratory illness,” UPMC is requiring people to wear masks at all of its hospitals, including Washington and Greene, and health care offices starting Wednesday. UPMC said it is bringing back masks to help curb the spread of respiratory viruses,

PITTSBURGH — UPMC said that it will soon require all patients, visitors, support persons and staff to wear masks in its patient care areas due to a rise in respiratory illnesses. Masks will be required in all UPMC hospitals and outpatient areas starting on Feb. 12, according to a Facebook post on the Children’s Community Pediatrics page.

UPMC is the first hospital chain in the region to require masks to be worn at all locations. According to a press release, UPMC is seeing an increase in cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Medical professionals including Dr. Banks agree masking up wouldn't hurt.

So far the other hospital systems in the area have not followed suit, but AHN Saint Vincent said they are seeing a spike in flu cases.

All UPMC health system facilities, including its hospital at 1500 Highlands Drive in Warwick Township, will require facemasks starting Wednesday due to a rise in cases of respiratory viruses.