Toronto — The University Health Network (UHN) is reinstating mandatory masking across all its facilities beginning Tuesday, November 18, as influenza and COVID-19 activity continues to rise in Toronto.
The mandate applies to staff, patients, and visitors at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, and all other UHN sites.
Where Masks Are Required
Under the updated policy, masks must be worn in:
- Physician offices
- Clinic waiting rooms
- Emergency departments
- Outpatient clinical areas
- Any setting involving direct patient care
- Situations where staff are closely interacting with patients in inpatient, outpatient, or emergency areas
Masking will remain optional in family lounges, though UHN strongly encourages mask use in public spaces such as:
- Lobbies
- Elevators
- Corridors
- Food courts
Areas where vulnerable patients are present will continue to require mandatory masking year-round.
Rationale and Public Health Context
UHN says the return of mandatory masking is driven by respiratory virus season and increasing circulation of influenza and COVID-19, as reported by Toronto Public Health. The policy is also consistent with measures being taken across other major Toronto hospitals, though start dates may vary.
Visitors Urged to Stay Home if Unwell
Anyone who is sick or has an active infection is asked not to visit UHN facilities to help prevent further spread of illness.
Mask Availability and Exceptions
UHN-approved medical masks will be available at:
- All hospital entrances
- Outpatient clinics
- Inpatient units
Visitors and staff may also wear their own N95 or KN95 masks.
Individuals who require a mask exemption are advised to notify a member of their care team upon arrival.