WA Health is reinstating mask mandates in public hospitals in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases. Beginning next Monday, both staff and patients will be required to wear surgical masks in high-risk clinical areas, such as hematology, oncology, organ transplant, and renal dialysis units. Additionally, masks will be mandatory around vulnerable patients in critical care settings, including intensive care units. This decision comes as The West Australian has reported instances of patients contracting COVID-19 and passing away within hospital settings after being admitted for unrelated medical conditions.
WA Health does not track hospital-acquired COVID cases.
The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Western Australia has increased, with 57 new admissions and four admissions to intensive care units (ICUs) in the week to November 12.
Four elderly West Australians lost their lives to COVID-19 in the past week.
The state’s chief health officer, Andy Robertson, said COVID cases have been on the rise since early September, primarily due to the Omicron XBB variant EG.5.
“This increase is an expected part of the ongoing evolution of COVID-19 in our community, as people’s immunity from vaccination and previous infections wanes over time,” he explained.
To address the growing number of COVID hospitalizations and staff absences, health service providers have agreed on standardized mask recommendations across the public health system.
“Previously, mask-wearing policies were left to individual units within WA hospitals,” Dr. Robertson noted. “Now, surgical masks are strongly recommended for staff and visitors in all public hospital clinical areas. Additionally, everyone is reminded to stay home if they are sick or recovering from COVID.”
Dr. Robertson also advised private hospitals and aged care facilities across WA to consider implementing stricter mask-wearing requirements for staff and visitors.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
“COVID-19 remains prevalent in our community, and I urge everyone to continue following these crucial guidelines: stay home if you’re feeling unwell, and avoid visiting high-risk settings like aged care facilities and hospitals if you exhibit cold or flu symptoms,” Dr. Robertson emphasized.
“Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor environments or situations where physical distancing is impractical, and ensure you’re up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are over 65,” he advised.
The Australian Medical Association in WA applauded the reintroduction of mask mandates, deeming it a “highly sensible” decision in light of the surging infection rates.
“I wholeheartedly endorse this move,” stated President Michael Page on Friday. “Our primary concern is safeguarding the most vulnerable patients. Those with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatments or other medications, remain at risk of severe COVID-19 complications, including death. Asking other community members to protect them by wearing masks when in close proximity within a clinical setting is a reasonable request. I trust that the community will recognize its importance and support this measure.”
Dr. Page also encouraged private hospitals to adopt similar measures.
“Consistency across the healthcare system, guided by the best available clinical advice, is paramount,” Dr. Page emphasized. “Inconsistent practices only lead to confusion. Consistency is essential.”
WA Health assured that healthcare facilities will continue implementing stringent infection prevention and control measures and precautions, including the use of P2/N95 masks, when caring for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases.