Shared on behalf of Adam Vinet, VP, Patient Experience, CNE and RVP, Regional Cancer Care

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The rate of Influenza Like Illness (ILI) in Thunder Bay and Region have significantly reduced over the past several weeks. In light of the decreased ILI activity, masking protocols will move back to “normal state”.

Starting today, May 7, 2026, all staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and ECPs/CPs will no longer be required to mask for all patient interactions, or where six feet of physical distancing standards cannot be met. Masking requirements will be based on an individual’s risk analysis and level of comfort in the task being completed. Masking above minimum requirements will be at the individuals discretion based on their risk assessment.

All staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and Essential Care Partner’s (ECPs)/Care Partner’s (CPs) are encouraged to exercise their own risk analysis and level of comfort for masking above the minimum requirements. Masking is required at all times for anyone who fails self-screening and their presence is essential at the Hospital and/or masking is deemed necessary based on IPAC protocols. ECP/CPs are discouraged from visiting the Hospital if they are experiencing symptoms of a communicable illness.

Masks will continue to be made available at all public/staff entrances on the sanitizing stands, as well as at the unit/department level should you or a member of the public require a mask.

Staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and ECPs/CPs will continue to wear a Level 3 procedure mask at all times while on the Acute Oncology wing of 1A, for protection of the patients. In order to reduce the spread of communicable diseases, we encourage everyone to follow proper hand hygiene techniques.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping our patients, staff and Hospital safe. If you have any questions, please ask your manager or reach out to IPAC (684-6094) for further details on best practices.