Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) has increased its Respiratory Illness Alert level to Yellow, indicating a moderate level of respiratory illnesses in the Berkshire County region. This decision takes effect on January 8, 2024, at 07:00 and introduces new masking and visitation protocols aimed at enhancing safety for staff, patients, and visitors.
As respiratory illnesses significantly impact BHS patients, the Yellow alert level mandates that all staff must wear masks during direct patient contact. Patients exhibiting any respiratory symptoms are also required to wear masks. In addition, BHS advises visitors with respiratory illness symptoms to postpone their visits whenever possible to minimize risk.
Understanding the Alert System
The three-tiered virus alert level system, implemented by Berkshire Health Systems in the fall of 2025, helps manage masking and visitor protocols based on current virus activity. This system is in effect 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, noted, “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.” He emphasized that masking, regular hand washing, and social distancing are crucial in combating the spread of these viruses.
Ongoing Monitoring and Community Response
BHS regularly reviews the level of virus activity to determine the appropriate alert tier for its facilities. To keep the community informed, signage will be displayed at all BHS locations, and updates will be available on the BHS website reflecting the current alert level. Masks will also be readily available in all facilities.
For further information on the respiratory illness alert level and related protocols, visit www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/virusalertlevel. The organization is committed to maintaining a safe environment as respiratory illness cases continue to rise in the region.
