UPDATE 4:20 PM: Jenny Read, the Kemptville District Hospital’s (KDH) Communications Officer, responded to our request for comment with the following information:
“Effective Monday, September 11, 2023 KDH will be reinstating mandatory wearing of masks in all clinical areas where patient care is provided, including waiting rooms. Masks are highly recommended in all non-clinical public spaces.
In our Interim Long-Term Care Unit, which is home to our residents, masks are highly recommended for visitors.
The decision to reinstate mandatory masking was taken for the protection of our patients and staff and is aligned with masking protocols in the majority of area hospitals. “
Starting next week, you’ll need to start packing your masks when you go to the Ottawa Hospital.
According to an announcement on social media, masking will be mandatory in all clinical areas and waiting rooms beginning on Monday.
Masking restrictions were eased at the hospital last spring after a decline in COVID-19 cases but are being tightened again to protect people from viruses like COVID-19 and influenza.
Clinical areas include places like patient rooms, nursing areas, and inpatient units. Masking is still optional in other parts of the hospital.
According to the announcement, the restrictions will stay in place until the end of the respiratory illness season.
We’ve contacted the Kemptville District Hospital to learn if similar restrictions will be imposed there.