In light of rising cases of respiratory illnesses, and the need to protect its staff and patients from becoming infected, the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has reinstated the requirement that all visitors to the country’s primary healthcare institution wear masks.
Making the announcement on Wednesday, the hospital’s head of Infectious Disease and Employee Health, Dr. Acheabea Dyer, said the mandate is a safety precaution that will provide protection for healthcare providers, patients and others seeking medical care at SLBMC.
“We are taking a community-wide approach to keep our patients and visitors safe.
“Masks have been recommended since the start of the pandemic. At this point of higher risk, we have to mandate the mask use once again as part of our precautions this holiday and tourist season to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses and protect young children, older individuals, and those with underlying health conditions”, said Dr. Dyer.
A mask will be required to gain access to the hospital’s wards, including the emergency room.
While mask wearing will not be compulsory for visitors accessing various services, including those offered in the outpatient clinic, the hospital’s administration is still encouraging wearing a mask.
The SLBMC statement promoted the importance of preventative measures in reducing the likelihood of contracting respiratory illnesses, including accepting available vaccines.
The hospital noted that a “complex challenge” has presented itself, where in addition to COVID-19, a host of respiratory viruses, including Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), have taken hold in many countries throughout the world.
These viruses, while often manageable, can result in serious outcomes, especially for children. They also create a strain on the healthcare system and hospitals in particular.
