Masking requirement returns to a northern Ont. hospital

Elliot Lake hospital reinvokes mask mandates Following word of a COVID-19 outbreak, Elliot Lake's St. Joseph's General Hospital reinstated an universal mask policy for the facility.

St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Elliot Lake, Ont., has opted to reinstate a universal masking policy throughout all areas of the facility.

The move comes on the heels of yet another COVID outbreak in their facility and just ahead of the flu season.

The hospital’s Interim CEO Vickie Kaminski, cited the move as a proactive step in a bid for added safety, in a news release on Friday.

The release went on to say universal masking will apply to all individuals entering the hospital – including patients, visitors and staff.

Those visiting the hospital will be provided masks upon entry to the facility.

Patients may unmask, but only when advised otherwise by medical personnel and staff are being told masks will be required unless working alone in an office, regardless of vaccination status.

“We understand that these measures may cause some inconvenience, but they are crucial to safeguard the well-being of our patients and healthcare workers,” reads the news release.

“We continue to encourage other preventative measures, including frequent hand washing, use of hand sanitizers and staying home if unwell.”

In a related social media post, health officials said that St. Joseph’s Manor and the Oaks Centre will continue to follow a mask-friendly policy at this time.

“We strongly encourage everyone to wear a mask for added safety,” said officials in the post.