Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) has raised its Respiratory Illness Alert level to Yellow, indicating a moderate level of respiratory illnesses in the Berkshire County region. This change, effective from January 8, 2025, at 07:00, introduces updated masking and visitation requirements aimed at enhancing safety for staff, patients, and visitors.
The increase in respiratory illnesses has significantly affected BHS patients, prompting the organization to implement measures to mitigate risks. The Yellow alert level requires all BHS staff to wear masks while in direct contact with patients. Additionally, patients exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness are also required to wear masks. BHS strongly advises that visitors experiencing any respiratory symptoms postpone their visits, if feasible.
Detailed Safety Measures and Guidelines
Established in the fall of 2025, the three-tiered virus alert level system at Berkshire Health Systems helps guide its protocols regarding masking and visitor access. This color-coded system is applied across all BHS facilities, including Berkshire Medical Center, Fairview Hospital, North Adams Regional Hospital, and all outpatient centers, including BHS Physician Practices.
Dr. James Lederer, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Quality Officer at BHS, emphasized the importance of these measures: “Respiratory illnesses have risen significantly in the community, and these changes are being implemented in order to help protect our patients, visitors, and staff from the host of respiratory viruses circulating at this time of year, especially influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.”
He further noted that consistent practices such as masking, regular hand washing, and social distancing are essential in preventing the spread of these harmful viruses. BHS is committed to remaining vigilant in its efforts to combat respiratory illnesses.
Ongoing Monitoring and Information Accessibility
The level of virus activity is regularly evaluated to determine the appropriate tier for BHS facilities. Signage indicating the current alert level will be displayed at all facilities, and the BHS website will be updated regularly to reflect these changes. Masks will also be available at all BHS locations for staff, patients, and visitors.
For more information regarding the current respiratory illness alert level, individuals can visit the BHS website at www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/virusalertlevel.
