Reading Hospital to screen visitors for COVID

Amid the continuing surge of CVOID cases, Reading Hospital will begin screening visitors for COVID before they enter the hospital next week.

Beginning Tuesday, visitors will be asked if they have any symptoms of COVID infection, if they have tested positive for COVID within the last 10 days, or if they have had recent exposure to anyone with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID, officials said.

All employees, medical staff and visitors are required to wear masks, according the hospital’s website.

“As cases of COVID remain in our community we continue enhanced safety precautions that permit one visitor for adult inpatients for the entire duration of a patient’s stay and two visitors for end-of-life patients,” the hospital said in an email.

The hospital called on the community to do its part in the battle against the coronavirus.

“Vaccination, including booster shots, against COVID-19 remains the most effective way of discouraging the spread of the virus,” the statement said. “Vaccination and the booster shots are critical because they help discourage serious illness and hospitalization. It is also important to continue proper hand hygiene, practice social distancing, and continuing to wear a mask when in public settings.

Penn State Health, which includes St. Joseph hospital in Bern Township, also is screening visitors for COVID.

“No one with symptoms will be permitted to enter,” according to the system’s website. “Everyone entering our facilities — including those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 — must wear a mask and adhere to appropriate social distancing guidelines when possible for the duration of their stay.”