Masking guidelines
Updated Jan. 13, 2026
There are high rates of flu and other respiratory viruses in our region. To help keep everyone safe, Penn Medicine suggests that all patients and visitors wear masks in our hospitals and practices. Patients with a cough, runny nose, or other respiratory symptoms will be asked to wear a mask during their visit, and visitors with symptoms will be asked not to visit.
Patients, visitors, and staff must continue to wear masks in areas where patients with weakened immune systems receive care. This includes:
- Emergency Department and urgent care waiting rooms
- Dedicated cancer, radiation oncology, and transplant clinics
- Infusion centers
Staff will also wear masks while directly caring for all patients.