Regional health authority CISSSO announced on Tuesday morning that medical masks are once again mandatory at most healthcare facilities in the Outaouais, as a way of curbing the spread of the influenza and other respiratory diseases. 

The statement gives several reasons for the change, including an early start to the flu season, a rise in respiratory viruses (particularly influenza A), and a high number of ER visits due to respiratory issues. 

Masks will be mandatory in the following facilities:

• Hospitals (including outpatient services)
• Long-term care facilities (CHSLDs)
• Pierre-Janet Mental Health Hospital
• Physical Rehabilitation Center (La RessourSe)
• Seniors and adapted living residences

According to CISSSO media relations agent Camille Brochu-Lafrance, this mandate does not extend to CLSCs. Similar mandates vary by hospital on the other side of the river. For example, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa requires masking in their emergency department and waiting rooms.