Mask rules change at hospitals in Kitchener and Guelph

Beginning Monday, the masking rules at St Mary’s General Hospital and Grand River Hospital in Kitchener as well as Guelph General Hospital have changed.

The hospitals in Kitchener as well as Guelph General Hospital have announced updates to their masking policies on Monday, a move that follows on the heels of several other southwestern Ontario hospitals.

Beginning Monday, those that visit St Mary’s General Hospital will not longer be required to wear a mask in hallways, breakrooms, shared offices, and most clinical areas.

The hospital says it will allow patients to ask that anyone who comes into their presence wear a mask.

“This choice will be honoured and respected without question,” a release from the hospital says.

It also warns that masks could also be required when interacting with a patient in isolation or those with respiratory illnesses.

The hospitals says that universal masking could return during cold and flu season or if there is an outbreak at the hospital.

The mask requirement also changed at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener on Monday although it asked that visitors wear them in the chemo suite as well as when they are in direct contact with patients.

“Patients will continue wearing masks if they have respiratory symptoms,” an announcement from GRH read. “Visitors – please continue to stay home if you are feeling unwell.”