Windsor Regional Hospital to require staff to mask ahead of expected uptick in respiratory illness

Windsor Regional Hospital will now require staff to wear a mask when within two metres of any patient.

The policy takes effect on Nov. 1, the hospital announced in a statement on Thursday.

The hospital called the move a "result of a predicted increase in COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses."

The hospital will make it a requirement for staff to mask, while recommending it for visitors when within two metres of patients.

WRH says wearing a mask is strongly advised it for those in waiting rooms or in lounges in high-risk areas such as the emergency department and Cancer Centre.

However, masking will not be required in non-clinical areas, such as main lobbies, waiting areas, cafeterias and elevators.