Masking returns to Guelph General Hospital following COVID-19 outbreak
Hospital brings back masking with the guidance of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
An outbreak of COVID-19 at Guelph General Hospital has led to renewed masking requirements this week.
It's a precautionary step to prevent further cases, Karen Suk-Patrick, the hospital's vice-president, said in a news release.
The new masking rules follow a rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the community and hospital.
Masks are required in clinical areas of the hospital, such as nursing stations, patient rooms and waiting rooms. Since the requirements are in the first phase, masks are not required in non-clinical areas.
The hospital has masking stations at entrances and nursing stations.
Summer weather meant decreasing COVID-19 numbers, but the cases were never at zero, said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health associate medical officer.
"It's still one of the things out there in the environment."
Wearing a mask is a valid practice any time of the year, said Tenenbaum. He said it's also recommended to wear one when feeling cold and flu symptoms.