Beacon hospitals are now encouraging visitors to wear masks.

It’s all due to a spike of respiratory illness in the community. Beacon Health System Hospitals say they are encouraging visitors to wear masks when directly interacting with patients.

There have been increased reports of COVID, RSV and the flu in the area, so visitors are asked to wear a mask and wash hands frequently to avoid spreading germs. WNDU says masks will be provided at Beacon hospitals in the area to reduce transmission of illnesses.

However, if you are experiencing symptoms of illness, you should postpone your visit.