The Middlesex London Health Unit (MLHU) is leading by example by requiring all visitors to its facilities and clinics to continue to wear a face covering.
The health unit announced its intention on Thursday just days before the Ontario government will drop the mask mandate at most indoor settings.
"The Middlesex-London Health Unit will continue to ask its clients and visitors to wear a mask as the region continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even with Ontario’s masking requirement being lifted in most settings starting Monday, March 21, as an agency that provides healthcare services, MLHU will continue to ask that face masks be worn by anyone who visits its offices seeking services," the health unit said in a statement.
Medical grade masks will be provided to all visitors and clients. As well, they will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms upon arrival.
"Clients who decline a mask will be directed to an isolated area within the facility, where health unit staff members will provide services, while wearing a mask and eye protection themselves," the health unit said.
Last week, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Alex Summers encouraged people in London and Middlesex County to continue masking in indoor public spaces.
“We still see pronounced Omicron transmission in the community, and I am anticipating that cases are going to go up as these public health protections get scaled back," said Summers. "We’ll continue to strongly recommend masking as much as possible in indoor environments. Masks have proven to be a highly effective, low problem intervention.”
Masks will still be mandatory in hospitals, seniors' facilities and on public transit until April 27.
