N.L. health-care facilities reviving mask mandate, says minister

Mandatory masking is returning to all areas where clinical care is provided inhealthfacilities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Health Minister Tom Osborne told CBC News on Thursdaythe recommendation was made by the InfectionPrevention and Controlteam at Newfoundland and LabradorHealth Services, aiming to protect people inside the hospital andthose enteringthe facilities.

"The department has spoken with public health here as well.They support IPAC's recommendation, you know, based on the spread of COVID and epidemiology within the community," Osborne said.

"This recommendation was not from government or myself as minister, but we understand the recommendation and we understand the need for the recommendation."

The mandate begins on Monday at 8 a.m.

In a press release issued shortly before 5 p.m. on Thursday, N.L. Health Services said it's atemporary measureand will be re-evaluated on March 31.

Masking will be required for people in waiting areas, clinical-care areasand visiting patients and long-term care residents.Cloth masks and masks with exhalation valves are not permitted.

Those who are admitted or are living in long-term care are not required to wear a mask full time, but anyone seeking care arerequired to wear oneat all times.

WATCH | N.L.'s health minister says he's listening to the experts about masking:

Mandatory masking returning to clinical care areas in N.L. health facilities

9 months ago

Duration 0:24

Newfoundland and Labradors infection prevention and control group made the recommendation to reinstate mandatory masks at the provincial health-care facilities. Health Minister Tom Osborne told the CBCs Mark Quinn the move is for the safety of workers, patients and their families.

The mandate, in all situations, was eliminated in May 2023, except for some cases in which health-care professionals are dealing with a patient has COVID-19.

Masking also remained encouraged at the time, despite not being mandatory.

The health authority is also encouraging the public to continue self-screening for viruses before entering a care area and maintaining physical distancing wherever possible.

Download ourfree CBC News appto sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador.Click here to visit our landing page.