New Brunswick's Horizon Health Network Reinstates Universal Masking Amidst Rising Respiratory Illnesses

In a crucial move to safeguard its communities, New Brunswick's Horizon Health Network has announced the immediate reinstatement of mandatory masking across all its facilities. Effective this Tuesday, the decision comes as the province grapples with a concerning surge in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, impacting both communities and hospitals.

The health authority emphasized that this proactive measure is critical to protecting vulnerable patients and the dedicated healthcare professionals who serve them.

With a clear focus on prevention, Horizon Health is implementing a 'universal masking' approach, ensuring that all staff, physicians, visitors, and patients are required to wear masks in common areas and when direct care is being provided.

Dr. Erin Christian, Horizon’s interim vice president of quality and patient-centred care, underscored the necessity of this step.

“We are experiencing a significant increase in respiratory illnesses across our communities and within our hospitals,” Dr. Christian stated, highlighting the strain these illnesses place on the healthcare system and the potential risks to those most susceptible.

Beyond masking, Horizon Health is reinforcing other vital infection control practices.

These include intensified cleaning regimens, stringent hand hygiene protocols, and the potential for visitor restrictions if epidemiological data indicates a heightened risk. Furthermore, individuals experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness are strongly urged to postpone visits to healthcare facilities to prevent further transmission.

This reintroduction of masking is not an isolated incident; it reflects a broader trend among health authorities across Atlantic Canada and beyond, responding to similar public health challenges.

The policy will undergo continuous review, with Horizon Health committed to adjusting measures based on the evolving landscape of community transmission rates and hospitalizations.

By taking these decisive steps, Horizon Health aims to create the safest possible environment for everyone entering their facilities, ensuring that essential care can be delivered without compromising the health and well-being of patients and staff alike.

Community cooperation in adhering to these guidelines is paramount in navigating this challenging respiratory illness season.