MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Aurora Health Care is dropping temporary masking and visitor restrictions at all locations beginning 7 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, citing a steady decline in respiratory illness cases, according to a Tuesday, Feb. 24 press release.

Children 12 and under will again be allowed to visit area hospitals. Masks are optional and available for visitors, though masking is still required in high-risk patient areas marked by signage and for symptomatic patients outside their rooms.

Anyone with respiratory symptoms, fever or a rash should not visit.

"As respiratory illness rates have continued to decline in recent weeks, we're easing temporary restrictions, while remaining prepared to respond if conditions change," said Dr. Robert Citronberg, executive medical director of infectious disease and prevention for Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care.

The restrictions had been in place since December. Aurora also urged anyone showing measles symptoms or suspecting exposure to call ahead before visiting any hospital or clinic.