A rising wave of respiratory illnesses has prompted a new masking rule for a North Bay hospital. The North Bay Regional Health Centre has reimposed a mask mandate in all patient care areas, effective today, in response to increasing hospitalizations from respiratory viruses and higher community transmission.
Beginning today, masks must be worn in all spaces designated for patient care. This requirement applies to everyone: patients, care partners, visitors, employees, physicians, volunteers, and contractors, as stated in the center’s official Facebook update.
Masks will be stocked at main entrances and at entry points to individual units and clinics.
The policy covers every area where patient care occurs, including inpatient units, outpatient clinics and waiting areas (such as medical imaging, laboratory spaces, and other clinics), and the Emergency Department. By contrast, masks are optional in public and staff zones, including hallways, the cafeteria, Tim Hortons, and Town Square.
If a visitor is feeling unwell, they are encouraged to postpone their visit until they have recovered.
Hospitals across Ontario are experiencing more emergency department visits for flu-like and respiratory illnesses, a trend that can lead to longer wait times.
If you think you or a loved one has a respiratory infection, monitor symptoms closely. Antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses such as the flu. Most healthy individuals recover within 7 to 10 days with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to reduce fever or relieve aches.
If symptoms do not improve after a few days, worsen, or you belong to a high-risk group, visit Health811 online or call 811 to speak with a health care professional 24/7.
For more information about respiratory illness symptoms and tools to protect you and your family, please visit the Ontario government health page.
