High-risk Canadians now advised to wear medical face masks: PHAC – CTV
November 18, 2021
TORONTO — The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is now recommending those at risk of higher exposure and more severe disease outcomes from COVID-19 wear a medical face mask.
The guidance, which was quietly updated Nov. 12, advises that these individuals “could also consider using a respirator” in certain situations.
The PHAC is now advising medical masks be worn by:
anyone who has tested positive for or has symptoms of COVID-19
people caring for someone who has tested positive or has symptoms of COVID-19
people who live in an overcrowded setting with someone who has tested positive or has symptoms of COVID-19
people who are at risk of more severe disease or outcomes from COVID-19
people who are at higher risk of exposure to COVID-19 because of their living situation
Previous guidance advised Canadians at higher risk of exposure and severe disease “wear a well-fitting, well-constructed non-medical mask that includes a filter layer” or “consider wearing a well-fitting medical mask if one is available.”
