Berkshire Health Systems has elevated its Respiratory Illness Alert level to Yellow, indicating a Moderate status, due to an increase in respiratory illnesses affecting the region. This change, effective from January 8, 2024, at 07:00, aims to enhance safety measures for patients, staff, and visitors across its facilities.
The decision to raise the alert level comes as respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), have surged within the Berkshire community. In this context, Berkshire Health Systems is implementing updated masking and visitation requirements to mitigate the spread of these viruses.
New Safety Protocols in Effect
With the alert level now set to Yellow, all Berkshire Health Systems staff members must wear masks when interacting directly with patients. Patients exhibiting any symptoms of respiratory illness are also required to wear masks during their visits. Additionally, the health system requests that visitors experiencing respiratory symptoms postpone their visits, when possible.
The three-tiered virus alert level system, introduced in the fall of 2025, governs how Berkshire Health Systems manages masking and visitor access. This system is applicable at several facilities, including Berkshire Medical Center, Fairview Hospital, North Adams Regional Hospital, and all outpatient centers, including BHS Physician Practices.
“Respiratory illnesses have risen significantly in the community, and these changes are being implemented to help protect our patients, visitors, and staff from the whole host of respiratory viruses circulating at this time of year, especially influenza, COVID-19, and RSV,” stated James Lederer, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Quality Officer at Berkshire Health Systems. “Masking, regular hand washing, and social distancing are all key factors in helping to prevent the spread of these very harmful viruses, and we will be vigilant in our efforts to combat these illnesses.”
Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
The level of virus activity in the community is continuously assessed to determine the appropriate alert tier for BHS facilities. Signage will be displayed at all locations, and the BHS website will be regularly updated to reflect the current alert level. Masks will also be made readily available at all facilities to ensure compliance with the new protocols.
For further information about the respiratory illness alert level and related safety measures, please visit www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/virusalertlevel.
