Nova Scotia Health Reinstates Mandatory Masking Amid Early Flu Surge
Nova Scotia Health has reinstated a mandatory masking policy at all healthcare facilities after recording 233 lab-confirmed influenza cases this season, the highest number for late October in four years. The mandate comes one month earlier than last year as flu activity rises across Canada and the United States.
Nova Scotia Health announced on Tuesday that masks are now mandatory at all of its facilities, including hospitals, emergency rooms, clinics, long-term care facilities, and health homes. The reinstatement of the masking mandate comes approximately one month earlier than its implementation during the previous year.
The decision follows an unusually early rise in influenza activity. So far this season, 233 lab-confirmed influenza cases have been reported in Nova Scotia, marking the highest number recorded for late October in the last four years. Of those cases, 20 resulted in hospitalizations, with five patients admitted to intensive care units. Additionally, six cases were identified in long-term care facilities. For the week ending Oct. 24 alone, 73 lab-confirmed influenza cases were reported, nearly double the 37 cases recorded during the previous week.
Dr. Shelly McNeil, senior medical director of the Emerging and Re-Emerging Infections Network, stated that this early rise in flu activity is being observed across both Canada and the United States. Possible reasons for the early spread include the specific H1N1 strain currently circulating or the fact that flu activity began before most residents had been vaccinated. Free flu vaccines became available in the province on Oct. 8.
While influenza cases are climbing, COVID-19 activity remains significantly lower than in previous years. This season has seen 150 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases so far, compared to 814 cases reported by late October last year.
The increased risk of severe illness or death for hospitalized patients who contract influenza has prompted these proactive measures to prevent outbreaks within healthcare settings. The public is urged to get vaccinated early and to stay home if they are feeling sick.