Manitoba is set to drop masking requirements in most health-care settings in the province.
Starting May 1, the requirement for staff to wear masks whenever they’re around patients will be lifted in most areas, according to a memo sent out to all health-care workers by Shared Health’s provincial coordinated health services on Thursday.
The memo says staff will still be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) according to routine protocols, that health-care facilities will continue to be “mask-friendly” and that masks and N95 respirators will still be available for those who wish to wear them.
Shared Health said in a statement it’s making the decision based on advice given by infection prevention, control and occupational health and safety experts.
“All staff are expected to comply with a patient/client/resident request to wear a mask,” the statement said.
“Similarly, symptomatic individuals will be asked to wear a mask for the safety of everyone around them.”
Shared Health said changes are consistent with ones made elsewhere in the country, and that they reflect seasonal changes in virus transmission.
Masking requirements during direct interactions with patients, residents and clients were reintroduced in October, before the start of the cold and flu season.
Shared Health said signage will indicate where staff must still take those extra precautions.