Respiratory illness season is upon us, and with increasing levels of influenza, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses circling our community, it’s important to stay updated on how to protect your health. The Infection Prevention and Control Medical Directors for Toronto Academic Health Sciences Network (TAHSN) are aligned in the benefit of seasonal universal masking, and in accordance, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) along with hospitals across the city are updating masking guidelines to return to practices during high-risk periods.

Masking guidelines

Starting Monday, November 17, masking will be mandatory for patients, visitors, and healthcare workers in patient care areas. This includes:

  • Patient rooms and treatment spaces (i.e. clinic rooms, dialysis, gyms, etc.)
  • Hallways when providing direct care and patient transport
  • Designated patient areas and during organized patient gatherings
  • Patient waiting areas, such as clinic waiting areas/rooms

In all other areas of the organization, masking is optional. These areas include:

  • Main hallways
  • Elevators
  • Cafeterias
  • Retail spaces
  • Hallways of patient care units when not providing care.

Masks will continue to be available at entrances throughout SHN and on units.

Staying healthy this season

Here are some simple and effective ways you can protect yourself, your loved ones and the community:

  • Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV if you are eligible. See below for information on getting the recommended vaccines.
  • Reduce the spread of germs by cleaning your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • If you’re feeling unwell, stay home and avoid visiting others in hospital or care settings.
  • Bundle up outdoors when the weather calls for it. Even in our region, cold can increase susceptibility to illness.

Choose healthy meals and aim for good rest to strengthen your immune system.

VaxFacts+

The resource below provides essential information about RSV, COVID-19, and influenza — three common respiratory viruses that can significantly impact your health and the well-being of those around you. Learn when you should be vaccinated for each illness, especially if you are part of a vulnerable group.

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or community member, this guide can help you take proactive steps to protect yourself and others.

Vaxfacts Fall Vaccine Recommendations for our CommunityDownload

Have questions about vaccines, including RSV, flu, or COVID-19? Book a confidential, judgment-free phone appointment with the VaxFacts+ Clinic today to speak with a doctor.

Accessing non-emergency care

If you’re feeling unwell with symptoms like fever, cough, or congestion and looking to get medical care, consider making an appointment with your family doctor if your needs are not an emergency. You can also visit SHN’s Urgent Care Centre at Centenary Hospital, which provides walk-in services for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, including many respiratory conditions.

Other non-emergency care resources include: