UPMC officials did not say why they revised the policy, which originally stated "everyone in our health-care facilities will wear effective masks."

UPMC announced that masks would be mandatory in all of its hospitals and outpatient clinics beginning Wednesday. The requirement was to be for patients, visitors, suppo

PITTSBURGH — UPMC said that it will soon require all patients, visitors, support persons and staff to wear masks in its patient care areas due to a rise in respiratory illnesses. Masks will be required in all UPMC hospitals and outpatient areas starting on Feb. 12, according to a Facebook post on the Children’s Community Pediatrics page.

Two days after issuing a mask mandate for its facilities, UPMC has softened its language, stating that masks are recommended, not required. On Monday, UPMC issued a statement that masks would be required for people at all its facilities in an attempt to curb the spread of respiratory viruses.

All UPMC health system facilities, including its hospital at 1500 Highlands Drive in Warwick Township, will require facemasks starting Wednesday due to a rise in cases of respiratory viruses.

People visiting UPMC hospitals and health care offices should plan on wearing a mask, effective Wednesday. Affiliates of the Pittsburgh-based health care system signaled the move on social media Monday.

Masks are recommended in inpatient care facilities, like hospitals outpatient centers, urgent care and senior living facilities.