MCLEANSBORO – The Federal and Illinois State governments will end the COVID–19 public health emergency Thursday.

Beginning Thursday, Hamilton Memorial Hospital and Family Clinics will no longer ask patients or visitors presenting to facilities to wear a mask covering their nose, mouth, and chin unless they are exhibiting respiratory illness or symptoms similar to COVID–19 or influenza, such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat.

Masking will continue to be required in particular patient care areas of Hamilton Memorial Hospital District facilities. These areas will be clearly marked with personal precautions required to enter the space.

The hospital district will continue to monitor the presence of influenza and COVID–19 throughout the community and will modify masking practices accordingly.