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The Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) released a local directive requiring masks or face coverings be worn in enclosed public spaces. The directive came into effect earlier this week on Tuesday, July 14.
Anyone coming to the Deep River and District Hospital, Four Seasons Lodge, or North Renfrew Family Health Team is reminded to wear a mask. Universal masking has already been in effect across the organization since early May, and mask use is reinforced under this new Public Health directive.
Under the directive, a mask is defined as a cloth (non-medical) mask, medical mask or other face covering (e.g. a bandana, scarf, or cloth), that securely covers the nose, mouth and chin and is in contact with the surrounding face without gaping.
Individuals are encouraged to wear their own mask from home to conserve personal protective equipment for use by health care workers at higher risk. A mask will be provided to any individual who does not have one at the point of entry, or who requires a higher level of protection than the mask they arrive in. Persons entering with a face covering (i.e. bandana, face shield, etc.), rather than a mask, will be provided a mask at the screening desk as per organizational policy.
Exemptions include people who cannot wear a mask for medical reasons, children under two years old, or those who are unable to remove the face covering without assistance.
As people expand their contacts with the reopening of businesses and services in our communities, there is an increased risk of a rapid rise of COVID-19. The RCDHU encourages the widespread use of masks as an additional personal practice that can help prevent infectious respiratory droplets of an unknowingly infected person from coming into contact with others. Masks provide a non-invasive way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and serve as a visual reminder to others to remain vigilant and stay physically distant from others.
For more information about COVID-19 and masks/face coverings, visit RCDHU’s website at https://www.rcdhu.com/novel-coronavirus-covid-19-2/ or call 613-735-8654. Thank you for doing your part in keeping us all safe.
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