OSF to implement mask requirement at all hospitals beginning Dec. 31

Starting Tuesday, Dec. 31, all employees, patients and visitors will be required to wear masks at all OSF hospital locations, OSF said on its Facebook page Monday.

The hospital said the requirement is because of the widespread respiratory illnesses in the community; including COVID-19, influenza and RSV.

The hospital said it also will be allowing two visitors, 18 and older, per patient at this time.

OSF has hospitals and emergency rooms in Ottawa, Streator, Mendota, Peru and Princeton.