Five local health systems will continue to require masking in their facilities for all visitors and employees.
CHI Memorial, Parkridge Health System, Rhea Medical Center, Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation and Tennova Healthcare – Cleveland all continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, and their facial covering protocols will remain in place.
The CDC recently updated its guidance for fully vaccinated people, but emphasized that guidance does not apply in health care settings.
The CDC continues to recommend “visitors, regardless of their vaccination status, should wear a well-fitting cloth mask, facemask, or respirator for source control when in a health care facility.”
Local hospitalizations and deaths have dropped significantly since peaking in December and January, but new cases continue to be diagnosed daily, the health systems report.
In addition, these health systems provide care to people at risk of complications if they contract the COVID-19 virus, such as those with diabetes, heart and lung problems and cancer.
“As we remain focused on protecting each other, we encourage everyone age 12 and older to get one of the COVID-19 vaccines currently available at no charge throughout the region. Together, we can help make our communities safer,” the health systems say in a joint statement.
For more information about the COVID-19 vaccines, check the social media channels and websites of each health system and of the local health departments.
Sources: CHI Memorial; Parkridge Health System; Rhea Medical Center; Siskin Hospital; Tennova Healthcare – Cleveland