BC reinstates mask mandate for all healthcare workers until risk decreases

BC’s Ministry of Health has temporarily reinstated a mask mandate in all health authority-run spaces during the respiratory illness season. 

The mandate was issued as of Monday, January 6th, and requires all healthcare workers, volunteers, contractors, patients and visitors to wear medical masks in areas where patients are actively receiving care, except when eating or drinking. 

Masks must be worn over the nose and mouth in all emergency departments and waiting rooms as well.

Visitors to long-term care homes will also be required to wear a mask. 

“Temporary measures like these have been regularly used in health-care settings both pre- and post-pandemic, including last year,” said the Ministry of Health to Victoria Buzz in a statement. 

“In conjunction with existing infection control practices, they will help curb the spread of respiratory illness this season and keep patients, residents and health-care workers safe.”

When the remaining COVID-19 mask protocols were officially rescinded in July of last year, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry stated that control measures such as mask mandates may be reintroduced to enhance infection prevention when needed. 

Due to the rising number of respiratory illness cases, specifically influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Dr. Henry has ordered the mask mandate be temporarily reintroduced. 

Additionally, the Ministry of Health says that COVID-19 activity is showing early signs of an increase, however the situation is currently stable. 

This masking requirement will be in effect until the risk decreases, which is expected to be in spring 2025. 

The Province says that public health experts will continue to monitor risk levels throughout the respiratory illness season.