AHS said its decision to rescind the mandate was based off a number of factors, including declining COVID-19 cases, testing positivity rate, and admission rates for respiratory illnesses. (Photo: Pattison Media Staff)

By Christian Oldale

Continuous masking to not be required at AHS facilities as of June 19, 2023

Jun 15, 2023 | 11:26 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Beginning on June 19, 2023, continuous mask usage at Alberta Health Services (AHS) facilities will no longer be required.

The decision comes after a review by AHS and will apply to all patients, family members, and visitors at AHS facilities, as well as Alberta Precision Laboratories, Covenant Health, CapitalCare, and Carewest sites. It also applies to all staff who either work for AHS or are contracted, including physicians, midwives, students, volunteers, and contractors.

In a news release, AHS said its decision to rescind the mandate was based off a number of factors, including declining COVID-19 cases, testing positivity rate, wastewater data and hospital admission rates for respiratory illnesses.

The agency adds that it also consulted with stakeholders, patients, families and advisory councils among others before making the decision.

Despite it no longer being mandated, AHS encourages anyone who chooses to wear a mask to do so, and urges any patients to speak to their care providers regarding masking and hygiene.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

AHS continues to encourage visitors or designated family support persons who have had respiratory symptoms to wait to visit loved ones until 10 days after displaying symptoms. All visitors are recommended to mask when visiting symptomatic patients or residents.

AHS staff are required to continue to use the Infection Prevention and Control Risk Assessment guidelines to make personal protective equipment (PPE) decisions, and prevent the spread of infections by following AHS Routine Practices.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.