It is that time of year again—respiratory illness season—when we see increased levels of influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and other viruses in our community. In accordance with Public Health Ontario and Toronto region guidelines, Scarborough Health Network (SHN) and other Toronto hospitals are implementing new masking guidelines.

Starting Monday, November 4, 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.

Stay healthy throughout cold and flu season

There are many easy and effective ways to help you stay healthy and (hopefully) avoid the need for seasonal healthcare this winter, including:

  • Reducing the spread of germs by cleaning your hands often with soap or hand sanitizer
  • Getting your flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster through your family doctor or local pharmacy
  • Speaking with your primary care provider or healthcare team about getting a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) if you are eligible (i.e. infants, young children, older adults)
  • Bundling up when you spend time outdoors
  • Eating well-balanced, nutritious meals

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

Accessing non-emergency care

There are several alternate options for community members if your needs are not an emergency.

  1. Family doctors, SHN Urgent Care Centre at Centenary, or other walk-in clinics 
  2. SHN Kids After Hours Clinic for children that need direct access to a paediatrician to treat common medical issues
  3. Scarborough Ontario Health Team interactive map of vaccine sites and walk-in clinics
  4. Toronto Health and Social Services Directory where you may easily find health, social and community services across Toronto
  5. Health Connect Ontario to speak to a registered nurse at by dialing 811 or TTY: 1-866-797-0007
  6. Central East Healthline for other non-emergency medical care