Are Masks Making a Comeback in Ontario Hospitals? Do They Really Work?

As we dive into the swirling debate around the resurgence of mask mandates in Ontario hospitals, you might be wondering, “Are masks really making a comeback, and do they actually work?” It’s a question many are asking, and the answers are anything but clear. Is it a well-thought-out precaution or a case of déjà vu? More on this below. Keep reading.

In a recent development, another Ontario hospital has made the decision to reintroduce its mask mandate, igniting a debate as mainstream media raises alarms about the potential resurgence of lockdowns in the coming fall. On September 7, the Kingston Health Sciences Centre joined the ranks of Ontario hospitals tightening COVID regulations, becoming the fourth institution to do so in recent weeks.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s Mask Mandate

The Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s decision mandates the use of masks in specific areas within the hospital. Masks are now deemed mandatory in the Emergency Department, Urgent Care Centre, and the Children’s Outpatient Clinic, with strong recommendations for their use in other units managing patients at high risk. Furthermore, hospital staff are required to wear masks when caring for patients who themselves are masked, while masks are obligatory for all patients exhibiting respiratory symptoms.

Staff Frustration and Anonymous Nurse’s Perspective

However, this move has generated frustration among hospital staff, many of whom feel disheartened by the return of mandates following years of aggressive regulations. An Ontario nurse, who wishes to remain anonymous, shared their thoughts on the situation. They expressed that the current policy, which mandates mask usage if staff members feel unwell and require a rapid COVID test, appears redundant to many.

The Broader Context

This decision from Kingston Health Sciences Centre arrives just a week prior to the Ottawa Hospital’s announcement that it will enforce mask-wearing starting on Monday, September 11. The Ottawa Hospital stated that the measure aims to enhance protection for patients, staff, and the public as the respiratory virus season approaches.

In late August, Ottawa’s Queensway Carleton Hospital also escalated its mask policy, requiring masks in all clinical and waiting areas as a precautionary measure in light of changing indicators.

Similarly, Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital has implemented mandatory masking across its two campuses, along with promoting social distancing.

Public Response and Concerns

The reinstatement of mask mandates coincides with an onslaught of stories in mainstream media suggesting a return of COVID in the upcoming fall. In August, the government-funded Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) published 18 COVID-related stories within just two days. Many Canadians have voiced concerns that this resurgence in mandates may lead to a full-scale return of masks and lockdowns in the fall.

Maxime Bernier, the leader of the People’s Party of Canada (PPC), who previously went to jail for opposing COVID mandates, has recently cautioned Canadians not to comply with any future dictates from government officials.

Controversy Surrounding Mask Effectiveness

Controversy looms over the effectiveness of mask mandates, as a growing body of evidence suggests that masks may not be as effective in preventing the spread of COVID as previously believed. Some studies have even indicated potential health issues associated with prolonged mask usage.

For instance, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admitted in September 2020 that masks could not be solely relied upon to prevent COVID transmission when individuals spend 15 minutes or longer within six feet of an infected person.

Moreover, a May 2020 study published in the peer-reviewed CDC journal Emerging Infectious Diseases failed to find evidence supporting the effectiveness of surgical-type face masks in reducing influenza transmission.

A study in May 2021 indicated that while mask mandates were widely followed, they did not yield the expected benefits. Instead, masks were associated with increased discomfort, such as dehydration, headaches, and sweating, and reduced cognitive precision. They also hindered communication and social learning among children.

My Final Take: So, while we ponder the return of the mask brigade, one thing’s for sure: masks or no masks, you’ll still need a strong cup of coffee to navigate the twists and turns of this ongoing saga. Stay caffeinated, my friends!