Province to clarify return of masking rules in B.C. health-care settings

We’ll have to wait until later Thursday for B.C. to clear up how masking rules will be reintroduced in health-care settings.

A leaked memo obtained by CityNews Wednesday shows “continuous medical masking” will be required for “health care workers, visitors, contractors, and volunteers in all patient, client, and resident care areas” as of Oct. 3.

However, the memo says masking won’t be required for patients, clients, and residents unless it’s “directed by a health care worker or based on personal choice.”

So, the question is: do these rules have any teeth since part of it is based on “personal choice.”

One doctor at Royal Columbian Hospital (RCH), who CityNews has agreed to not identify, is happy with the decision but says this was “sprung on” staff as the direction wasn’t communicated prior to the memo being leaked to the media.

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He says he’s been wearing masks again for a while because he’s seeing first-hand the increased transmission of COVID-19. Cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are all up, according to the most recent report from the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).

On Wednesday, CityNews asked Health Minister Adrian Dix why the province is bringing back masks. Dix explained it’s to protect the sickest people in the hospital.

“Ensuring the people in that position have the maximum protection possible in this [respiratory illness] season is important. We adjust and we adapt, depending on the circumstances,” he said.

In early April, the provincial government lifted masking requirements in health-care settings.

We’re also set to get details about the fall COVID-19 and flu vaccine campaign.

Last year, the province announced details in early September — nearly a month behind, which means if it’s made available before Thanksgiving, the shots may not provide much protection for large gatherings.

The province had people book their appointments through an online portal last year that was full of glitches before being ironed out.

Keep up to date with this developing story. Listen live to CityNews 1130 for major updates. You can also follow us on X @CityNewsTraffic and subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.

–With files from Liza Yuzda