Health PEI removes universal masking requirement

As of today, April 21, Health PEI has removed the requirement to wear a mask in Health PEI buildings, including hospitals, health centres, and long-term care. 

Masking requirements are now the same as before the COVID-19 pandemic. People who are sick or have any symptoms of COVID-19 or any respiratory virus are asked to continue to wear a mask. Health care staff will assess whether a mask is required in each patient encounter and wear a mask if it is necessary. 

Staff, patients, clients and visitors may wear a mask at any time if they choose to do so. 

“This change keeps Health PEI facilities in line with the current best practices across North America. As a highly-vaccinated population that has also been exposed to the COVID-19 virus, PEI is in a good position to make this change. Universal masking is difficult for patients and staff and while I recognize some people may be anxious about this, it is a safe time to move forward to post-pandemic protocols.”

- Dr. Michael Gardam, Health PEI CEO. “

Masking requirements may be reintroduced in specific circumstances, such as when a unit is in an influenza, RSV or COVID-19 outbreak. 

Media contact: 
Everton McLean
Chief Communications Officer, Health PEI
902-213-1507
emclean@gov.pe.ca