File photo The CDC has issued new guidance on masks, but local officials are urging caution.
COLUMBUS, Ind. — For the first time in three years, face masks are now optional for most Columbus Regional Health patients and visitors at CRH facilities.
The hospital system made the change earlier this week as the transmission of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses continue to decline, officials said.
The updated policy applies to all CRH facilities, including Columbus Regional Hospital.
However, anyone who has symptoms of a respiratory virus or had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 will still be required to wear a mask.
At the same time, patients are still welcome to wear masks at CRH facilities if they wish to.
“As far as public areas, patient treatment areas, we’ve been in masks, and we have been requiring masks for both our staff and visitors for three years now,” CRH spokeswoman Kelsey DeClue said. “It’s pretty huge to be able to make it optional.”
For more on this story, see Saturday’s Republic.
