THEY’RE BACK! MANDATORY MASKING AT BOTH SOUTH MUSKOKA AND HUNTSVILLE HOSPITALS AS OF NOV. 24

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

MUSKOKA — Some said masks should be worn in hospitals year-round after COVID.

Today Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) announced the return of mandatory masking at both its hospital sites in south Muskoka and Huntsville.

They say in morning release Monday, that “as respiratory illness season takes hold and cold and flu activity increases in the community,” it has reinstated mandatory masking requirements in the hospitals.

Effective Nov. 24, “everyone must wear a surgical mask over their nose and mouth throughout the hospital.”

It says masking is an important measure to protect patients and staff, maintain safe hospital operations, and reduce the risk of becoming ill.

Other infection and prevention control measures like hand washing and proper self-screening for symptoms of illness and staying home when unwell also help to limit the spread of respiratory viruses.

Surgical masks remain available at entrances to the hospitals and in various clinical areas.

Masks remain available at entrance to both SMMH and HDMH. GRAPHIC MAHC

SMMH outbreak Nov. 21

in North Wing limits visitors

Masking changes follow a respiratory outbreak on North Wing at the South Muskoka Memorial Hospital (SMMH) Site, declared by MAHC in consultation with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit on Friday, Nov. 21.

Due to the outbreak, general visitors are not permitted on North Wing, and visitation is limited to one essential caregiver only. Essential caregivers are to wear a surgical mask and other appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as identified by the care team.

Testing of patients and staff continues to occur as part of outbreak management protocols, and enhanced cleaning practices are underway to limit spread.

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