THUNDER BAY — Long-term care homes in Thunder Bay and across the region have implemented enhanced masking measures under instructions from the provincial government.
The Ministry of Long-Term Care ordered long-term care facilities in Ontario to introduce the measures as of Tuesday.
In a memo to licensees, the ministry cited recent trends that have shown a moderate-to-high level of community transmission of COVID-19, and an increase in COVID outbreaks in long-term care homes with an increased risk of hospitalization among residents.
The ministry said COVID activity may peak in the next few weeks, which is around the same time that influenza and respiratory synctial virus (RSV) cases are projected to rise.
All facilities are now mandated to require all staff, students, support workers and volunteers to wear a mask when in resident areas indoors.
Previously, masks were only required when direct care was being provided to residents.
The ministry is also "strongly recommending" visitors and caregivers wear masks in resident areas indoors, except when the resident in the resident's room, or when eating or drinking with a resident in communal spaces.
According to the memo, if a resident in a shared room is uncomfortable with others removing their masks, homes are encouraged to designate a space to enable the roommate to have visitors without masking.
The requirements align with masking policies put in place for the respiratory illness season in Ontario hospitals and other health care settings.
St. Joseph's Care Group has implemented the new measures at Hogarth Riverview Manor and Bethammi Nursing Home.
"We continue to lean into education to keep the residents of long-term care safe and well, especially during the flu season," St. Joseph's Care Group said in a statement. "Caregivers and families are encouraged to self-screen for symptoms before choosing to visit. On-site, we provide masks at the entrance and have hand sanitizers throughout the homes for people to easily access. As per standard practice, enhanced precautions are put into place if an outbreak is declared by public health."
Outbreaks of COVID-19 were declared Wednesday on 7 North at Hogarth Riverview Manor, 2 North at St. Joseph's Hospital, and in Section 101 to 122 of the Chartwell Glacier Ridge retirement residence on Jasper Drive.
According to information posted by the health unit, previously-declared outbreaks continue at the Chartwell Thunder Bay retirement residence on Arundel Street, in the Cheshire unit of Southbridge Roseview on Shuniah Street, and on 2B of Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
