Outaouais CISSS Reinstates Mandatory Masking in Healthcare Facilities

The Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS) has reinstated the mandatory wearing of masks upon entry to its healthcare establishments.

Starting Tuesday, masks are required in hospital centers, including the outpatient clinic, the Pierre-Janet mental health hospital (including units 5 and 6 of the juvenile pavilion), the Physical rehabilitation Center, La RessourSe, residential and long-term care centers, seniors’ homes, and alternative homes.

The CISSS of outaouais attributes its decision to “an early start to the flu season, the increase in respiratory viruses (notably influenza A), the increase in outbreaks, the high number of emergency room consultations for respiratory symptoms as well as the current overload in emergency rooms.”

This measure aims to “limit the transmission of viruses, protect customers, healthcare workers and vulnerable people, and also prevent outbreaks,” officials added.

The masking requirement will remain in place “until further notice,” according to the CISSS of the Outaouais. “As soon as we notice a reduction in the presence of viruses, it will be possible to remove the masks.”