As coughs and sniffles become more common this time of year, one local hospital is tightening precautions to help keep patients and staff safe. Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) will require masks to be worn throughout the facility as viral illnesses continue to circulate widely across the region. In a notice issued Wednesday, hospital officials said enhanced masking measures will take effect Thursday, and will apply to all areas of the hospital. Masks will be required for staff, volunteers, patients and visitors. Officials say the decision comes amid high rates of influenza and other respiratory viruses being reported both locally and across Simcoe County. The move aligns with current recommendations from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. “We are taking this approach to help reduce the spread of viral illnesses during this peak viral season,” said Sharon Ramagnano, interim vice-president of clinical services at Stevenson Memorial Hospital. “With the holidays approaching and the increased cases of respiratory illnesses in the region, we are being diligent with all infection prevention and control protocols for the safety of our patients, staff and community,” she added. According to SMH, masks will be made available to anyone entering the building. They will be provided at the main entrance as well as at the lower parking lot entrance to ensure easy access for patients and visitors. Hospital officials are also asking visitors to take extra precautions before arriving. Anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms or feeling unwell is being asked to postpone their visit until they have fully recovered. SMH says limiting the spread of illness is especially important in a health-care setting, where many patients may be more vulnerable to complications from viruses such as influenza. Officials note the masking requirement is a temporary measure tied to the peak viral season. Updates or changes to the policy will be shared with the public as conditions evolve. Stevenson Memorial Hospital is an acute-care, community-based hospital in Alliston.
