FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 25, 2024
Mandatory Masking Returning to Peterborough Regional Health Centre Beginning October 28, 2024
Peterborough, ON – Beginning Monday, October 28, 2024, Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) will reimplement masking in all direct patient care areas.
During respiratory season, PRHC’s goal remains to protect patients from developing hospital-acquired COVID-19 and other respiratory virus infections. Masking will be mandatory for patients, visitors, staff and volunteers.
“Masks slow the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses,” says Dr. Justin Tilak, physician lead for the Infection Prevention and Control group at PRHC. “During respiratory season, where COVID-19, RSV, flu and more are circulating more frequently, we want to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable patients.”
This decision comes as many hospitals across Ontario, including Toronto’s University Health Network, are implementing similar measures.
Medical masks will continue to be available at the Main Entrance, in the Emergency Department and in patient care areas across the hospital. Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) and visiting restrictions may apply based on the patient’s location and status.
In addition to masking, active screening of all patients and visitors entering PRHC will continue.
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For more information:
Michelene Ough, Director, Communications, PRHC, mough@prhc.on.ca
