A rise in cold, flu and COVID-19 cases across Halton Region has prompted Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington to reintroduce mandatory masking for all visitors in patient care areas.
In a move reminiscent of the height of the pandemic, the hospital announced that effective Monday, Dec. 22, everyone entering the facility must wear a mask in all patient care spaces to help curb the spread of respiratory illnesses and protect vulnerable patients.
Masks are being made available at all hospital entrances and throughout the building.
A notice posted on the hospital’s website said the decision comes as Burlington and surrounding communities experience a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses.
“As Burlington and surrounding communities see a sharp rise in cold, flu, and COVID-19 cases, Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) is experiencing a significant increase in visits to our Emergency Department and a higher number of patients who require admission,” the statement said.
While the hospital has not released specific data on the number of cases it is managing, figures from Halton Region Public Health — which oversees Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills — show a recent climb in respiratory virus activity, particularly influenza.
During the most recent reporting period from Dec. 7 to Dec. 13, 32 people in Halton were hospitalized due to respiratory illnesses. Two patients were recorded as being hospitalized for COVID-19 during that time.
Public health data also indicate a sharp rise in the proportion of emergency department visits linked to flu and other respiratory conditions. In mid-December, 6.63 per cent of all emergency visits were related to such illnesses, compared with 2.57 per cent at the end of November.
In addition, Halton Region has reported nine confirmed respiratory outbreaks in institutional settings, including hospitals and retirement homes.
Hospital officials say the renewed masking requirement is intended to reduce transmission within the facility as respiratory illness activity continues to increase in the community.