GRANGER, Ind. - Beacon Health System hospitals have updated their current masking guidelines as of April 4.

Effective immediately, masking guidelines have changed to make masks optional.

Previously, masks were required for anyone in rooms with patients and individuals providing direct patient care or services.

Beacon officials say fortunately, they've been observing a decrease in respiratory virus cases for the last month, and that they remain at low risk for the spread of respiratory illnesses in their hospitals and in the community.

Officials say there are some situations when a mask could be required for associates, patients, or visitors, including in areas where care is being given to immunocompromised patients, for anyone recently exposed to COVID, and for those with respiratory symptoms.

A patient or associate may also request others wear a mask during certain interactions.

Hospital officials say the Beacon Infection Prevention team will continue to monitor trends to determine when prevention practices need to change.

They add that masks will continue to be provided at Beacon hospitals.