If you’re heading to a hospital, you may want to have a mask handy.
Hospitals in Bancroft and Barry’s Bay, like many others across Ontario, have mask mandates in place.
St. Francis Memorial Hospital Chief Operating Official Greg McLeod says that a mask mandate that started in September at the Barry’s Bay-based hospital is expected to continue through the heavy respiratory virus season.
He says masks are required in all clinical areas and waiting rooms. That includes inpatient units, nursing stations and ambulatory care areas.
Earlier this week, the Renfrew and County District Health Unit announced that COVID-19 cases are on the rise and the flu season is expected to be more severe than usual.
The rules are similar at North Hastings Hospital (NHH) in Bancroft. There, medical masks are required in all patient care areas, including waiting rooms. The hospital is also limiting the number of patient visitors to no more than two at a time.
Catherine Walker, a spokesperson for Quinte Health (the organization that oversees NHH), says the rules will be reviewed regularly, and updated if necessary, during respiratory season.