Phase out of COVID masks begins at Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington

Burlington’s Joseph Brant Hospital is gradually phasing out mandatory masking.

Put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals have been slowly lifting the masking order and now Joseph Brant (JBH) has developed its own plan.

As of now, everyone who enters JBH is still required to put on a mask. The mask must be worn in all areas where patients may be present including waiting rooms, elevators and hallways.

Masks are recommended, but no longer required in areas determined to be low-risk, non-patient areas such as Tim Hortons, the cafeteria, parking garage stairwells, and administrative offices.

Visitors who are experiencing symptoms should not come to the hospital while patients who experience COVID symptoms are required to wear a mask at all times.

Masks will continue to be provided at hospital entrances.

“In making this decision, we considered current Public Health Ontario guidance – which indicates that the province is currently in a sustained low-risk period of COVID-19 transmission – the advice of regional and JBH experts, as well as the transition that is happening in other hospitals,” reads a statement released by the hospital.

Hospital officials say they are continuing to monitor the situation with the hopeful goal of further loosening requirements. However, they point out masking requirements may change if needed to protect the health and safety of everyone who comes to and works in the hospital.