Health
P.E.I. Hospitals Reinstate Mask Mandates to Combat Respiratory Illnesses

Health facilities across **Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.)** have reinstated mandatory masking in an effort to mitigate the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. This decision follows a surge in COVID-19 positivity rates, which reached approximately **20 percent** during the week ending **October 4, 2023**. This figure starkly contrasts with the national average of under **10 percent**.
Visitors to hospitals, such as **Queen Elizabeth Hospital** in Charlottetown, are now required to wear masks when within two meters of any patient, resident, or client. **Hilary Prince**, a visitor, expressed her commitment to safety, stating, “I always wear the mask, maybe that’s why I don’t have a cold.” Another visitor, **Maureen Arsenault**, expressed her support for the mask mandate, emphasizing its importance in protecting vulnerable individuals: “It’s important to keep people safe, so I think it’s a good idea.”
As hospitals face increasing challenges, **Scott Weeks**, whose wife is a patient, noted the recent COVID-19 outbreak in her department. “She got along fine, and I think the other patients got along fine. But this time of year, it’s good to wear a mask so that reduces the spread of any type of respiratory infection,” he remarked.
Expert Opinions on Respiratory Illness Trends
Despite the current rise in COVID-19 cases, infections from respiratory syncytial virus (**RSV**) and influenza remain low, with positivity rates under **1 percent**. Nonetheless, **Isaac Bogoch**, an infectious disease specialist, predicts that these rates will rise as winter approaches, likely peaking in January. He cautioned, “We’ll sadly see some stretches to our health-care capacity, in terms of hospitalizations, because of these viruses… many people will succumb to these viruses, especially the most vulnerable.”
Bogoch emphasized the necessity of preventive measures to reduce transmission risks and protect those most at risk. He noted that annual flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccinations are essential this year.
**Dawn Bowdish**, an immunologist and professor of medicine at **McMaster University**, encouraged vaccinations, stating that the vaccines available this season should effectively target the circulating strains. Drawing from data from Australia, which has recently concluded its cold and flu season, she noted, “There may be mutations, or the virus might change before it gets to Canada. But our best predictions are that the flu shot will be an excellent match.” Bowdish urged individuals to get vaccinated promptly, suggesting that doing so would significantly improve the likelihood of a healthier holiday season.
Access to Vaccinations Across Canada
In Canada, most provinces and territories offer COVID-19 vaccinations at no cost to individuals aged six months and older. However, **Quebec** and **Alberta** have started charging for vaccinations for those outside of high-risk groups. Nonetheless, high-risk groups, including health-care workers, seniors aged 65 and older, and residents of long-term care facilities, continue to receive coverage for COVID-19 vaccinations in these provinces.
On **Prince Edward Island**, public health officials are optimistic that the combination of universal vaccine access and mask mandates in health facilities will help to manage the anticipated surge in respiratory illnesses and reduce pressure on local hospitals. The proactive measures reflect a broader effort to safeguard the health of the community during a challenging period for health services.
-
Lifestyle2 months ago
Winnipeg Celebrates Culinary Creativity During Le Burger Week 2025
-
Health2 months ago
Montreal’s Groupe Marcelle Leads Canadian Cosmetic Industry Growth
-
Science2 months ago
Microsoft Confirms U.S. Law Overrules Canadian Data Sovereignty
-
Education2 months ago
Red River College Launches New Programs to Address Industry Needs
-
Technology2 months ago
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero Launching on Switch and Switch 2 This November
-
Technology1 week ago
Discord Faces Serious Security Breach Affecting Millions
-
Science2 months ago
Tech Innovator Amandipp Singh Transforms Hiring for Disabled
-
Technology2 months ago
Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold Specs Unveiled Ahead of Launch
-
Science2 months ago
China’s Wukong Spacesuit Sets New Standard for AI in Space
-
Technology2 months ago
World of Warcraft Players Buzz Over 19-Quest Bee Challenge
-
Business2 months ago
Dawson City Residents Rally Around Buy Canadian Movement
-
Education2 months ago
Alberta Teachers’ Strike: Potential Impacts on Students and Families
-
Technology1 week ago
Huawei MatePad 12X Redefines Tablet Experience for Professionals
-
Business2 months ago
New Estimates Reveal ChatGPT-5 Energy Use Could Soar
-
Science2 months ago
Xi Labs Innovates with New AI Operating System Set for 2025 Launch
-
Technology2 months ago
Innovative 140W GaN Travel Adapter Combines Power and Convenience
-
Technology2 months ago
Future Entertainment Launches DDoD with Gameplay Trailer Showcase
-
Technology2 months ago
Global Launch of Ragnarok M: Classic Set for September 3, 2025
-
Technology2 months ago
New IDR01 Smart Ring Offers Advanced Sports Tracking for $169
-
Technology2 months ago
Arsanesia Unveils Smith’s Chronicles with Steam Page and Trailer
-
Science2 months ago
New Precision Approach to Treating Depression Tailors Care to Patients
-
Business2 months ago
BNA Brewing to Open New Bowling Alley in Downtown Penticton
-
Technology2 months ago
Humanoid Robots Compete in Hilarious Debut Games in Beijing
-
Health2 months ago
Giant Boba and Unique Treats Take Center Stage at Ottawa’s Newest Bubble Tea Shop