It’s time to break out that mask ahead of respiratory virus season, as the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) is updating its masking guidelines, in anticipation of increased spread of influenza, RSV and COVID-19.
Masking will be required in any clinical areas of the hospitals, and is recommended, but not required, in non-clinical areas.
Hospital-provided medical grade masks will be provided at masking stations set up throughout HPHA hospital sites and clinical areas that require masking will be clearly marked.
“Masks continue to be a key tool for infection prevention and control,” says Erica Jensen, Manager Quality, Patient Safety and Infection Control for HPHA.
“Ontario is seeing an early start to the respiratory season this year with a high rate of test positivity for COVID-19. In response to this increase in respiratory illness, and to help keep our patients and team members safe, the decision has been made to return to mandatory masking in clinical areas of the hospital for all HPHA team members, volunteers and visitors.”
This masking policy went into effect Wednesday (Oct. 2).
