BHS Implements Color-Coded System for Respiratory Illness Measures

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — In anticipation of the expected rise in respiratory illness during the fall and winter seasons, Berkshire Health Systems will implement its three-tiered virus alert level system, which will determine how the organization manages masking, visitor access, and testing and whether staff, patients and visitors will require masking.

The fall and winter seasons are expected to see a rise in the number of cases of Influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) at Berkshire Medical Center, Fairview Hospital, North Adams Regional Hospital, and BHS provider offices. The three-tiered system, which indicates a Green, Yellow or Red status, will determine the level of masking required at all BHS facilities. 

This year, virus alert level monitoring will take effect on Oct. 5, 2026, and continue until there is a significant reduction in respiratory illnesses, usually in late March. 

The current level is Green. 

A Green level will indicate a low activity for respiratory viruses and would allow for voluntary masking and a request that those who are symptomatic mask when in a BHS facility. Yellow signifies moderate activity and would require masking for all staff when in direct contact with patients, masking for those with symptoms and voluntary masking for all others. It would also limit visitation to those over 18 years of age. Red tier would mean a high level of virus activity and result in required masking for all healthcare professionals, patients and visitors, additional limits on visitor access, and universal testing of all inpatients at BHS hospitals. 

The level of virus activity will be reviewed weekly to determine what tier BHS facilities will be assigned. Signage will be posted at all facilities, the BHS website will be updated regularly to reflect the current tier, and masks will be readily available on-site. 

"Berkshire Health Systems is committed to implementing preventive measures to help curb the level of COVID-19, flu, and RSV in our community," said James Lederer, MD, BHS Chief Medical Officer/Chief Quality Officer. "Masking, regular hand washing, and social distancing are all key factors in helping to prevent the spread of these very harmful viruses and we will be vigilant in our efforts to combat these illnesses." 

For more information, visit www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/virusalertlevel.