In response to a rise in respiratory illnesses and community transmission, the North Bay Regional Health Centre has reinstated its mask mandate for all patient care areas starting today
Starting today the North Bay hospital is requiring the wearing of masks in all patient care designated areas.
“This applies to all patients, care partners, visitors, employees, physicians, volunteers, and contractors,” says a Facebook post.
“The decision to move to masking again in all patient designated areas was determined by our current level of hospitalizations from respiratory viruses and community transmission,” it states.
Masks will be available at the main entrances and entrances to units/clinics.
Masks are required in all areas designated for patient care. This includes all in-patient units where patient care takes place, all out-patient clinics and waiting areas (medical imaging, lab, clinics) and the Emergency Department.
Masks are optional in public and staff areas like hallways, the cafeteria, Tim Hortons and Town Square.
Visitors who feel unwell are asked to postpone visiting until they feel better.
Hospitals across Ontario are seeing an increase in emergency department visits for flu-like and respiratory illnesses, which can contribute to longer wait times.
“If you think you or your loved one has a respiratory illness, it’s important to monitor your symptoms. Antibiotics have no effect against a viral illness like the flu. Most healthy people recover from the flu on their own within 7 to 10 days with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication to reduce fever or aches.
“If you don’t start to feel better after a few days, your symptoms get worse or you are in a high-risk group, visit Health811 online or call 811 to speak with a health care professional 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
To learn more about symptoms of respiratory illness and the tools available to help you and your family stay protected, click here.