OSF adapts mask policy to a recommendation, no longer required

OSF on Tuesday changed its mask requirement for visitors at all of its hospitals to a recommendation.

On Monday, OSF said the initial requirement is because of the widespread respiratory illnesses in the community, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus.

On Tuesday, OSF said the change acknowledges “the importance of personal choice while still encouraging practices that help protect vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, infants and those with weakened immune systems from COVID-19, influenza and RSV.”

The hospital also said it will only allow two visitors ages 18 and older per patient at a time. Exceptions will be made for special circumstances, such as end-of-life situations, OSF said.

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

“The well-being and safety of our patients and their families remain at the heart of everything we do,” OSF said.