Masks now required for all visitors, patients, staff at SHA Saskatoon facilities

Anyone in a Saskatchewan Health Authority facility in Saskatoon is now required to wear a mask at all times.

The health authority announced the policy, effective immediately, on Friday.

Even if a two-metre distance can bemaintained, all patients, visitors and health-care providers in any Saskatoon SHA facility are required to wear a mask at all times. This includes outdoor areas on SaskatchewanHealth Authority property where visiting might take place.

The SHA said patients may be granted exemptions from the universal masking policy, depending on their health situation as directed by their health-care provider.

All other screening protocols remain in place, the health authority said.

As of this time,visitation access has not changed. The health authority is still allowing two family members or support persons in to visit patients and residents at long-term care facilities.

It said any impact on appointments or surgeries due to the new guidelines will be communicated directly to the patient.

Twenty-two new cases of COVID-19 were announced in the province on Friday, including fivein the Saskatoon area. The Saskatchewan Health Authority and the City of Saskatoon are asking residents to be "extra vigilant" as COVID-19 activity in the city is increasing.