The Jewish General Hospital has reinstated a mask mandate in parts of the hospital as respiratory illnesses surge across Montreal. The decision, announced by the CIUSSS West-Central Montreal health network, comes as health officials report increased cases of COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory viruses circulating in the community.
Masks are now required for visitors, caregivers and family members entering patient areas. Hospital officials say the measure is intended to protect vulnerable patients, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment, dialysis, and other therapies that weaken the immune system. The policy also applies to staff and physicians working in high-risk units such as intensive care, oncology and neonatal departments.
The move marks a return to tighter infection prevention rules that had been gradually relaxed earlier this year. While the mandate does not apply to every area of the hospital, administrators emphasized that the targeted approach reflects an effort to balance public health with practicality. Staff are required to wear masks when interacting with patients or in areas where respiratory outbreaks have been detected.
Visitors arriving at the hospital are greeted with signage reminding them to wear masks before entering patient rooms. Free medical masks are available at entrances and nursing stations. Security and volunteers have been instructed to help ensure compliance while maintaining a respectful atmosphere.
Hospital leadership said the decision was based on data showing an increase in respiratory infections among both patients and staff. Infection prevention teams will continue to monitor virus transmission and adjust measures as needed. Officials stated that while vaccination remains a key tool in prevention, masks continue to provide an additional layer of protection, especially for those who are immunocompromised.
The Jewish General Hospital, one of Montreal’s major teaching institutions, has often been at the forefront of infection control since the beginning of the pandemic. The reintroduction of mask rules underscores the hospital’s continued caution and commitment to patient safety as respiratory season intensifies.
Hospital administrators noted that while mask fatigue is real, most staff and visitors have been cooperative. For patients battling serious illness, even a mild respiratory infection can have serious consequences. The hospital hopes that these measures will reduce in-hospital transmission and keep essential health services running smoothly through the fall and winter months.
If cases continue to climb, officials may consider expanding the policy. For now, the focus remains on protecting those at highest risk while maintaining access to care for everyone entering the hospital.
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