The majority of the remaining mask mandates were lifted on June 11, despite that, a number of healthcare settings in the region have decided to keep their mask policies.
Dryden Regional Health Centre (DRHC) announced through a social media post that they will continue to ask patients and visitors to wear a hospital-provided mask.
The decision was made with vulnerable patients and staff in mind.
All other infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, physical distancing, entrance screening and vaccination policies will also remain in effect.
DRHC continues to encourage all residents to wear a facial covering in all public settings, not just in medical facilities.
Mandatory mask mandates will remain in long-term care homes and retirement homes, and masking continues to be strongly recommended in shelters and group homes.
Dr. Moore, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, adds that while mask requirements are ending, organizations may implement their own policies and residents should continue to wear a mask if they feel it is right for them, and are at high risk for severe illness, are recovering from COVID-19, have symptoms of the virus or are a close contact of someone with COVID-19.