THUNDER BAY – HEALTH – The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre report that the rate of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in Thunder Bay and the surrounding region has significantly decreased over the past several weeks. In light of this reduced activity, masking protocols at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will return to “normal state.”
Effective May 7, 2026, staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and Essential Care Partners/Care Partners (ECPs/CPs) will no longer be required to wear masks for all patient interactions or in situations where a physical distance of six feet cannot be maintained. Masking requirements will instead be guided by an individual risk assessment and personal comfort level related to the task being performed. Choosing to wear a mask above the minimum requirements remains at the individual’s discretion.
All staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and ECPs/CPs are encouraged to continue assessing their own level of risk and comfort when deciding whether to wear a mask beyond the minimum requirements. Masking remains mandatory for anyone who does not pass self-screening but whose presence at the Hospital is essential, and in situations where masking is required in accordance with Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) protocols. ECPs/CPs are discouraged from visiting the Hospital if they are experiencing symptoms of a communicable illness.
Masks will continue to be available at all public and staff entrances at sanitizing stations, as well as within units and departments, for anyone who wishes to wear one.
Staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and ECPs/CPs must continue to wear a Level 3 procedure mask at all times while on the Acute Oncology wing of 1A to help protect patients.
To further reduce the spread of communicable illnesses, everyone is encouraged to continue practicing proper hand hygiene.
