Mandatory masking requirements are back at hospitals in Bracebridge and Huntsville.
"Effective November 24, everyone must wear a surgical mask over their nose and mouth throughout the hospital," Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) said in a news release on Monday.
The move comes as South Muskoka Memorial Hospital in Bracebridge deals with a COVID-19 outbreak in the North Wing of the facility.
As a result, temporary visitor restrictions are in place. Only one essential caregiver is allowed per patient, and general visitors are not permitted until the outbreak is lifted. Essential caregivers must wear a surgical mask along with any other protective equipment identified by the hospital's infection and prevention control team.
"Masking is an important measure to protect patients and staff, maintain safe hospital operations, and reduce the risk of becoming ill. Other infection and prevention control measures like hand washing and proper self-screening for symptoms of illness and staying home when unwell also help to limit the spread of respiratory viruses," stated MAHC.
Surgical masks are available at entrances to the hospitals and in various clinical areas.
