Mask mandate in effect at SHA facilities in Saskatoon due to increased COVID-19 activity

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) has implemented a mask mandate at its Saskatoon facilities due to increased COVID-19 activity in the area.

All patients, visitors, and health care providers will have to wear a mask within an SHA facility or home. The mandate applies even if people can maintain a two-metre physical distance, visiting outside on SHA property or in non-clinical areas.

Patients may be granted exemptions as directed by a health-care provider, said the SHA in a press release.

The SHA issued the alert Friday evening citing increased cases of COVID-19 in the City of Saskatoon.

1:23 Coronavirus: Trudeau warns Canada has reached a ‘tipping point’ in COVID-19 fight

The mask mandate applies to all SHA facilities within the city including Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon City Hospital, care homes, health offices and centres.

All other screening protocols remain in place, and visitation access has not changed at this time, added the SHA in its press release.

As of Friday, there are 139 active cases in Saskatchewan, 33 of which are in Saskatoon.

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

A full list of SHA facilities in Saskatoon can be found here.

2:16 Coronavirus: Shahab says Prince Albert outbreak likely to lead to more cases in ‘north and far north’