Masks now required in all B.C. healthcare facilities for patients, staff and visitors

Masks are now required in all B.C. healthcare facilities for patients, staff and visitors, according to a new policy issued this week.

The Ministry of Health issued the requirement Wednesday, Nov. 4 to prevent the transmission of COVID-19.

The policy includes all healthcare facilities as well as community physician offices and outpatient clinics during the pandemic.

It also requires that all healthcare facilities supply masks for healthcare workers, staff, patients and visitors.

Admitted patients will generally not have to wear a mask in their rooms, with exceptions based on the healthcare professional's risk assessment, but are expected to when moving around a healthcare facility, according to the policy.

Earlier this week, Canada's top doctor Dr. Theresa Tam recommended that face masks should comprise two layers of tightly woven fabric such as cotton or linen, plus a third layer of a "filter-type fabric" such as polypropylene.

“We’re not necessarily saying throw out everything that you have," she said at a news conference Nov. 3, adding that "the fit is the most important thing," emphasizing a nose pinch and full coverage of nose and mouth, but also comfort and breathability.

B.C.’s provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has strongly encouraged residents to wear masks while indoors and many municipalities including Kelowna, West Kelowna and Lake Country have mandated mask use while inside city facilities.

READ MORE: Masks have been discussed since COVID-19 arrived: Here’s what you need to know

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