MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- An increase in respiratory viruses has caused Aurora Health Care to implement a temporary masking and visitor policy.

In an email sent to Aurora employees, children under 12 should not visit facilities and masking is required where there is direct patient contact and in congregate areas. 

The prevention measures will be required in acute care hospitals, EDs, rehabilitation units and facilities, skilled nursing facilities, behavioral health, inpatient hospice, infusion centers and certain cancer areas including bone marrow transplant clinics. 

The restrictions take effect Jan. 6.